In true feline form, cats aren't in a hurry to jump onto our laps.
According to one comprehensive study that looked at the spread of domesticated cats, DNA analysis suggests that these animals lived for thousands of years alongside humans before they were domesticated. During that time, their genes have changed little from those of wildcats, apart from picking up one recent "update": the distinctive stripes and dots of the tabby cat.
Since the moment they decided to join our households, felines have completely taken over our lives. In ancient Egypt, for example, people built cemeteries for them—Egyptians mummified their kitties and made statues for them that are exhibited in museum collections across the world to this day.
Of course, our life has changed dramatically during the last couple of millennia, but our love for cats has remained the same. Continue scrolling to check out this original Bored Panda list to learn why. When you go through the funny cat pictures we collected, fire up our similar publications dedicated to them here, here, and here.
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My Crush Just Told Me Over Text That It Was "Unmanly" For Men To Have A Cat. I Sent Her This
It is believed that cats started hanging around farming communities in the Fertile Crescent about 8,000 years ago, where they formed a mutually beneficial relationship with humans as their rodent patrol.
"Since domestic cats are remarkably similar to their wildcat ancestors, they retained a side to them that is fierce and elusive," Lucy Hoile, a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB) who specializes in these animals told Bored Panda.
"However, they are surprisingly adaptable, living comfortable lifestyles in the most urban of areas and forming strong, affectionate relationships with the people they live with. These two features of the pet cat make them an enigma that is difficult to find with any other pet species."
Some dog lovers might argue that cats are selfish and arrogant, but Hoile reassured us that felines are still living with us because they know we can provide them with significant benefits, and not just food and shelter.
"Cats will often form strong emotional attachments to their owners, identifying them as part of their social group through facial and body marking. Cat owners are now more than just bringers of tasty food and a warm bed!"
Look At The Markings On This Cat
And just because the average kitty sleeps around 16 hours a day, that doesn't mean they're lazy. They simply need to stay sharp!
"Being opportunistic hunters, they are built for short bursts of activity when prey presents itself," Lucy Hoile explained. "Periods of rest in-between are essential to conserve energy at other times of the day."
In fact, some of these furry critters (just like dogs) have no trouble earning their living through honest work. Just take a look at these bodega cats who keep convenience stores and corner shops pest-free!
Apex Predator
Close Enough
Hi!
I Found This Little Boy In The Countryside, Alone. Initially He Was Scared, Now He Seems To Be Pretty Comfortable
"Describe Your Cat In One Picture"
Important Q
The one on the right is Alfred Hitchcock. The left could be Donald Trump. Which would drive him over the edge. If you play with the fur you could turn Don into Cary Grant.
The Cat Burglar Has Struck Again!
Behold The Glorious Whiskers Of Shoulder Cat
If You Can't Hide A Crime Scene, Just Pretend You Are A Victim
He Thinks He's Being Sneaky
How Could You Be Mad At Her With Eyes Like Those
"I Do Not See The Humor In This"
Upper cat is clearly contemplating the demise of lower cat aka googly cat.
Today I Was Extremely Sad And I Thought "I Can't Wait To Go Home And See My Cat, He Will Make Me Happy". Ok Well I Found Out He Was More Depressed Than Me
I’m Remodeling My Basement And All The Ceiling Tiles Were Just Removed. I Found My Cat Like This
I Found Our New Church
Being Sexy For Ya
Yes, draw her like one of your French girls, she said pre-emptively
Delightful Cat Photos To Brighten Your Day
Blursed_meeow
"Be There Or Be Square" Me:
I. I Don’t Even Know
Note: this post originally had 98 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.
New kitten Izzie, LOVES bubbles 20210907_0...65517c.jpg
looolll
Catnip bubbles?
Awwwwww she's so cute. My cat Levi likes bubbles a lot as well
All of these were cute
these made me happy
New kitten Izzie, LOVES bubbles 20210907_0...65517c.jpg
looolll
Catnip bubbles?
Awwwwww she's so cute. My cat Levi likes bubbles a lot as well
All of these were cute
these made me happy