The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is widely recognized as the most comprehensive, objective global approach for evaluating the conservation status of plant and animal species.
lc
Least Concern
At relatively low risk of extinction
nt
Near Threatened
Likely to become vulnerable in the near future
vu
Vulnerable
At high risk of extinction in the wild
en
Endangered
At very high risk of extinction in the wild
cr
Critically Endangered
At extremely high risk of extinction in the wild
ew
Extinct in the Wild
Survives only in captivity
ex
Extinct
No surviving individuals in the wild or in captivity
Data Deficient
Not enough information available to make an assessment
Domestic cats, no matter their breed, are all members of one species.
Relationship with Humans
Felis catus has had a very long relationship with humans. Ancient
Egyptians may have first domesticated cats as early as 4,000 years ago.
Plentiful rodents probably drew wild felines to human communities. The
cats' skill in killing them may have first earned the affectionate attention
of humans. Early Egyptians worshipped a cat goddess and even mummified
their beloved pets for their journey to the next world—accompanied by mummified
mice! Cultures around the world later adopted cats as their own companions.
Hunting Abilities
Like their wild relatives, domestic cats are natural hunters able to stalk
prey and pounce with sharp claws and teeth. They are particularly effective
at night, when their light-reflecting eyes allow them to see better than
much of their prey. Cats also enjoy acute hearing. All cats are nimble
and agile, and their long tails aid their outstanding balance.
Communication
Cats communicate by marking trees, fence posts, or furniture with their
claws or their waste. These scent posts are meant to inform others of a
cat's home range. House cats employ a vocal repertoire that extends from
a purr to a screech.
Diet
Domestic cats remain largely carnivorous, and have evolved a simple gut
appropriate for raw meat. They also retain the rough tongue that can help
them clean every last morsel from an animal bone (and groom themselves).
Their diets vary with the whims of humans, however, and can be supplemented
by the cat's own hunting successes.
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