Prehistoric Period

The American Wirehair Cat is a breed that originated relatively recently, in the 20th century. However, domestic cats, as a species, have a much longer history that extends back to prehistoric times. Here are five points regarding the existence of cats during the prehistoric period:

Domestic cats (Felis catus) are believed to have been domesticated from the African wildcat around 9,000 years ago in the Near East. This marks the beginning of the human-cat relationship during the Neolithic period.

Cats played a crucial role in early agricultural societies by controlling rodent populations around stored grain. This mutualistic relationship likely contributed to the gradual domestication of cats.

The Felidae family, which includes domestic cats as well as big cats like lions and tigers, has a prehistoric lineage dating back millions of years. Fossil evidence suggests the presence of cat-like species long before the emergence of modern domestic cats.

Cats held significant cultural and religious importance in ancient Egypt. They were associated with the goddess Bastet, who was often depicted with the head of a lioness or a domestic cat. Cats were revered, and harming them, even accidentally, was considered a serious offence.

Cats accompanied humans in their migrations and explorations, contributing to their global spread. As people travelled and traded, cats became established in various regions, adapting to different environments over time.

In summary, while the specific breed of the American Wirehair Cat did not exist during the prehistoric period, domestic cats, as a species, have a rich history dating back thousands of years. Their close association with humans, especially during early agricultural civilizations, has shaped their evolution and contributed to their status as beloved companions today.