Research published in the journal Science has shed light on the domestication of cats, pinpointing a significant moment in their history. According to the study, domestic cats were introduced to Europe from North Africa approximately 2,000 years ago during the early imperial Roman period, likely facilitated by maritime trade. This challenges long-standing theories suggesting that domestication began much earlier, around 6,000 to 7,000 years ago, when farmers from the Near East brought cats to Europe.
Insights from Genetic Analysis
Lead author and paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni from the University of Rome Tor Vergata emphasized that the earliest genomes of domestic cats in Europe date back to the first century AD. The research team analyzed genetic samples from feline remains across 97 archaeological sites in Europe and the Near East, examining 225 bones ranging from about 10,000 years ago to the 19th century AD. They successfully generated 70 ancient feline genomes.
The findings revealed that the remains from prehistoric sites in Europe were primarily wildcats, not early domestic cats. This is significant, as it underscores the timeline of domestication, placing it firmly in the Roman era.
Cultural and Historical Context
The introduction of domestic cats to Europe marks a pivotal development in their relationship with humans. Co-author Marco De Martino noted that cats became integral to human societies, impacting economies and belief systems. The research identified two distinct introductions of cats from North Africa. The first occurred around 2,200 years ago, when wildcats were brought to Sardinia, leading to the island’s current wildcat population. However, these were not domesticated cats.
About two centuries later, a separate migration established the genetic foundation for modern domestic cats in Europe. Co-author Bea De Cupere, a zooarchaeologist at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, explained that these genetic introductions coincided with increased trade in the Mediterranean. Cats likely accompanied grain shipments, serving as effective hunters of mice, and were valued for their symbolic significance in various cultures.
In ancient Egypt, for instance, cats were revered, featuring prominently in religious beliefs and royal households, where they were sometimes mummified for burial. The Roman military’s extensive network across Europe played an essential role in dispersing domestic cats, as evidenced by feline remains found at Roman military sites.
The earliest domestic cat identified in the study, genetically similar to today’s cats, was found in Mautern, Austria, dating between 50 BC and 80 AD. Although the study provides valuable insights into the introduction of domestic cats to Europe, it does not clarify the timing and specifics of their initial domestication.
“Cat domestication is complex,” Ottoni acknowledged. “What we can confirm is the timing of the introduction of domestic cats to Europe from North Africa. We still have much to learn about the earlier phases of domestication.” The ongoing research into feline genetics promises to deepen our understanding of these beloved companions and their journey alongside humans throughout history.
