A cat (Felis catus) is a small domesticated carnivorous mammal belonging to the family Felidae. Cats are among the most widespread companion animals in the world, valued for their agility, hunting skills, and adaptability to human environments. They typically weigh between 3 and 6 kilograms, though size and appearance vary widely across breeds.
Cats are known for their retractable claws, keen senses of hearing and vision, and their ability to hunt small prey, particularly rodents. They are also noted for their complex vocalizations, including meowing, purring, hissing, and growling, which they use to communicate with both humans and other animals.
Domestication of cats is believed to have begun around 9,000 years ago in the Near East, where they played an important role in protecting food stores from pests. Today, cats are found in households worldwide, with hundreds of recognized breeds ranging from short-haired to long-haired varieties.
In addition to their role as pets, cats hold cultural significance in mythology, literature, and art, often symbolizing independence, mystery, or grace.
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