Prehistoric Period

Cats, those delightful companions we share our homes with today, have a fascinating history that stretches back into the depths of prehistory. While the Arabian Mau Cat, as we know it, didn't exist in those ancient times, the lineage of domestic cats can be traced to periods long before recorded history.

The journey of domestic cats, including the ancestors of the Arabian Mau, began around 9,000 years ago. This marks the dawn of domestication, a time when wildcats and humans formed a mutually beneficial relationship. It's believed that the African wildcat played a crucial role in this process, as humans and cats learned to coexist during the early stages of agricultural civilizations.

As human societies developed, so did the role of cats. In places like ancient Egypt, cats held a special place in the hearts of people. Revered for their hunting prowess and mysterious demeanour, cats were associated with deities such as Bastet. Harming a cat, even accidentally, was considered a grave offence.

Cats didn't limit themselves to one corner of the globe. They accompanied humans in their migrations and explorations, contributing to their global spread. Through trade routes and travel, cats found themselves adapting to various environments and climates, gradually evolving into the diverse breeds we know today.

The prehistoric lineage of the Felidae family, which includes domestic cats, dates back millions of years. Fossil evidence reveals the existence of cat-like species long before the emergence of modern domestic cats. These ancient relatives were part of a complex web of predators, showcasing the enduring nature of feline evolution.

One of the key roles that cats played in ancient times was controlling rodent populations. As agriculture became a cornerstone of human civilization, cats became valuable allies in protecting stored grain from pesky rodents. This mutualistic relationship likely played a crucial role in the domestication process.

While the Arabian Mau Cat itself didn't exist, the spirit of cat-kind journeyed through the ages. Cats, whether in ancient settlements or aboard seafaring vessels, adapted to new environments. Their survival instincts, hunting skills, and ability to coexist with humans allowed them to thrive in various settings.

In the grand tapestry of evolution, the Arabian Mau Cat finds its place as a modern representative of a rich feline history. The domestication journey, the ancient bonds with humans, and the global explorations of cats have all woven together to create the diverse and cherished feline companions we have today.

In essence, while the specific breed of the Arabian Mau Cat didn't exist during the prehistoric period, its roots are deeply intertwined with the ancient history of domestic cats. The enduring partnership between cats and humans, forged through millennia, has shaped the unique and beloved nature of the Arabian Mau.