Cats in the Ancient World: The Role of Cats in History
Cats have been conquering our world for many, many years. Be sure not to underestimate our furry friends, as their rich history holds many clues to their importance in our lives, both past and present. Since the ancient world, cats and humans have been building a bond that has stood the test of time.
The journey of cats through history is a testament to their enduring charm and adaptability. They have played many varied and significant roles in human history and have lived more than just nine lives! In this blog, we’ll explore the role of cats in history, jumping through time to uncover how they became the feline companions we know today.
Ancient Egypt
Our adventure into the past starts with cats in Ancient Egypt, where they were regarded much like royalty.
In Egypt, cats were valued for their practical role in protecting food supplies from pests, such as rats. However, to Ancient Egyptians, they were much more than just household pets. The people of Egypt are said to have cared more for cats than for themselves, as they were associated with the goddess Bastet, symbolizing protection, fertility, and motherhood.
The significance of cats in Ancient Egypt facilitated a strong bond between humans and cats. So much so that when a cat of the household died, the inhabitants would shave off their eyebrows as a sign of mourning.
Their celebrity status meant that they were often depicted in artwork and on tomb walls. And although mummification was reserved for the royal and wealthy, cats were often mummified and even buried with their human!
Ancient India
Our next stop in our exploration of cats in the ancient world is India.
Similar to Egypt, cats were known and respected in Ancient India. They were linked with many religious figures, such as the cat Shashthi, who protects children and is often depicted riding a cat. They are also associated with Lakshmi, the Deity of wealth and prosperity.
In Hindu sacred writings, cats are often seen as wise creatures. In fact, they are mentioned in many sacred texts. One example is the Mahabharata, which is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of Ancient India. This tells the story of the Mahabharata Lomasa (a cat) and the Palita (a mouse) helping each other to escape from death.
They are also depicted in the Ramayana, which details the God Indra disguising himself as a cat. These Indian texts have even inspired the creation of other famous cats in history, such as Puss in Boots, which is said to be based on the Indian folk tale in the Panchatantra.
Ancient Rome
Next up, Rome!
Many cats in Ancient Rome were adopted from Egypt but soon became part of Roman life. They were valued by Romans for their companionship and pest control. Their ability to protect food stores and keep rats away from soldiers’ equipment made them popular with the army, who saw them as companions and mascots.
Much like other cats in the ancient world, they were often connected to Deities. In Rome, this was with Libertas, who was the Goddess of freedom, which meant many cats roamed freely around temples. As a result, cats were seen as protectors of the home and symbols of domestic peace. The Romans even went as far as introducing laws in the first century AD to protect cats.
Ancient China
Last but not least, we have Ancient China.
In China, cats were valued for their rodent-hunting skills and quiet companionship. They helped to protect crops and stored grain from any other animals that might try and reach them. For this reason, Chinese farmers became fond of them and worshipped a cat deity, Li Shou. She was a fertility Goddess who protected crops from rats and drove away any evil spirits.
The history of cats in Ancient China saw them featured in many works of poetry and paintings as symbols of peace and elegance. Their association with yin energy meant that they were seen as mysterious, calm and watchful.
This journey into the ancient world has proved that there were many famous cats in history. From admired Deities and useful mousers to cherished pets and pop culture icons! Cats’ presence in our history spans across thousands of years, with ancient civilisations honouring them as sacred animals.
The environments our cats live in has changed a lot since the ancient world, our hectic and social lives can bring about opportunity for stressors. However, thanks to our developed technologies and knowledge of cats, FELIWAY® Optimum has been developed to ease that stress, providing a calm and consistent environment for them. Simply plug it in the room where your cat spends most of their time for enhanced serenity.
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