Month: August 2024

Why Cats Go Bonkers for Cardboard Boxes!

If you’ve ever lived with a cat, you know that a cardboard box is basically their idea of heaven on Earth. Forget the expensive toys and cozy beds you bought—they just want that plain, boring box. But why do our feline friends go absolutely bananas for these simple squares of corrugated joy? Let’s dive into the quirky world of cats and cardboard, and discover why your cat might secretly be a box addict.

The Safety of Boxy Bliss

Cats are basically tiny, furry ninjas. In the wild, they’re always on high alert, ready to pounce—or hide—from anything that might ruin their day. Now, your indoor kitty might not have to worry about surprise attacks from jungle predators (unless you count the vacuum cleaner), but that doesn’t mean their instincts are on vacation. A cardboard box offers a cozy little fortress where they can observe their surroundings like a stealthy spy, all while feeling safe and snug. It’s like their version of a secret clubhouse—no humans allowed (except when it’s time for treats, of course).

Warm and Toasty—A Boxer’s Paradise

Cardboard isn’t just about stealth, though; it’s also super good at keeping in the warmth. If you’ve ever wondered why your cat likes to park themselves in the sunniest spot in the house, it’s because they love to be warm. Their comfort zone is a toasty 86 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit (30 to 36 degrees Celsius)—basically, they’re living tropical vacations in their heads. A cardboard box, with its insulative powers, is like a mini sauna for your kitty, keeping them toasty and relaxed. Forget the spa—cats just need a good box.

Scratch That Itch (Literally)

Another reason why cardboard boxes are cat magnets? They make the perfect scratching posts. Cats love to scratch—it’s like their version of a manicure, but with more destruction involved. A cardboard box provides just the right amount of resistance, making it super satisfying for them to sink their claws into. It’s a triple win: they get to sharpen their claws, leave their scent, and make a mess—all in one go. Plus, the sound and texture of cardboard is like music to a cat’s ears. Who needs Spotify when you have the satisfying crunch of cardboard?

The Allure of Exploration and Play

Cardboard boxes are the ultimate playground for curious kitties. These boxes might look boring to us, but to a cat, they’re a jungle gym, a hunting ground, and a hideout all rolled into one. Jumping in and out of them, hiding inside, or simply peeking over the edge like a sneaky spy—it’s all part of the fun. For indoor cats, this kind of play is essential for keeping their minds and bodies sharp. Plus, it’s pretty hilarious to watch a cat pop out of a box like a furry jack-in-the-box.

Stress Relief in a Box

Ever notice how your cat seems a little less grumpy when they’ve got a box to chill in? That’s no coincidence. A box provides a safe space for them to decompress and hide from the scary stuff—like the mailman or that weird noise the fridge makes. Studies have even shown that boxes can help reduce stress in cats, especially when they’re in new environments. So, if your cat seems a little tense, just give them a box. It’s cheaper than therapy and probably more effective too.

That Irresistible Cardboard Scent

Finally, let’s talk about the smell. No, not that musty cardboard smell—though who knows, maybe cats like that too. We’re talking about the scent of the box itself, which is made from wood pulp. Cats are naturally drawn to certain smells, and while cardboard might not be as powerful as catnip, it’s still got something going for it. And once your cat has spent some time in a box, it starts to smell like them—a scent they find comforting and familiar. It’s like their own personal perfume, but way cheaper than anything you’d find at the store.

In Conclusion: Boxes Are the Cat’s Pajamas

So there you have it—cats aren’t just being weird (well, maybe a little); they’re actually following their instincts when they go gaga over cardboard boxes. These humble rectangles offer everything a cat could want: safety, warmth, entertainment, and even a little stress relief. The next time you see your cat curled up in a box, just remember—they’re not just being quirky. They’re living their best life, one cardboard box at a time.

Cats in Egypt

Cats have held a significant place in Egyptian society for thousands of years, influencing their culture, religion, and daily life. Here’s a detailed account of the relationship between cats and humans in ancient and medieval Egypt:

The most notable aspect of cats in ancient Egypt is their association with the goddess Bastet (or Bast). Initially depicted as a lioness, Bastet evolved to have the form of a domestic cat, symbolizing home, fertility, and protection. The city of Bubastis (modern Tell Basta) was the center of worship for Bastet, where large festivals were held in her honor.

Cats were believed to possess protective qualities. They were thought to ward off evil spirits and were associated with the sun god Ra. In mythology, Ra transformed into the Great Cat of Heliopolis to defeat the serpent Apophis, an embodiment of chaos.

Cats were highly valued for their practical role in controlling vermin. Their ability to hunt mice, rats, and snakes protected food supplies and reduced the risk of disease.

Cats were kept as pets and were part of the family. They often appear in household scenes in ancient Egyptian art, indicating their integration into daily life.

Cats were mummified and buried with their owners or in special cat cemeteries. This practice indicates their revered status. These cat mummies were often offerings to Bastet.

Cat statues, amulets, and figurines were commonly found in tombs, signifying their protective role in the afterlife.

Harming or killing a cat, even accidentally, was considered a serious crime. Historical records suggest that offenders could face severe penalties, including death.

In medieval Egypt, cats continued to be appreciated, especially during the Islamic Golden Age. The Prophet Muhammad’s fondness for cats, particularly his cat Muezza, led to their esteemed status in Islamic culture. Stories of Muhammad cutting off a portion of his robe rather than disturbing his sleeping cat further highlight their valued position.

Cats appeared in medieval Islamic art and literature, often symbolizing cleanliness and grace.

Modern Egypt

The ancient reverence for cats continues to attract tourists to Egypt, particularly to sites like the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which houses numerous cat artifacts.

Modern Egypt has a significant population of street cats. While attitudes can vary, many Egyptians feed and care for these cats, reflecting a lingering cultural affinity.

Cats in Egypt transitioned from revered religious symbols and practical companions in ancient times to cherished pets and cultural icons in medieval and modern periods. Their integral role in society is evident through religious worship, legal protections, and their ubiquitous presence in art and daily life. The historical reverence for cats in Egypt remains a point of cultural pride and curiosity, influencing how these animals are perceived and treated even today.

Cat breeds

Here’s a list of different domestic cat breeds:

1. Abyssinian

2. American Bobtail

3. American Curl

4. American Shorthair

5. American Wirehair

6. Balinese

7. Bengal

8. Birman

9. Bombay

10. British Shorthair

11. Burmese

12. Burmilla

13. Chartreux

14. Chausie

15. Colorpoint Shorthair

16. Cornish Rex

17. Cymric

18. Devon Rex

19. Egyptian Mau

20. European Burmese

21. Exotic Shorthair

22. Havana Brown

23. Himalayan

24. Japanese Bobtail

25. Javanese

26. Khao Manee

27. Korat

28. LaPerm

29. Maine Coon

30. Manx

31. Munchkin

32. Nebelung

33. Norwegian Forest Cat

34. Ocicat

35. Oriental Shorthair

36. Persian

37. Peterbald

38. Pixie-bob

39. Ragamuffin

40. Ragdoll

41. Russian Blue

42. Savannah

43. Scottish Fold

44. Selkirk Rex

45. Siamese

46. Siberian

47. Singapura

48. Snowshoe

49. Somali

50. Sphynx

51. Tonkinese

52. Turkish Angora

53. Turkish Van

This list includes many of the recognized cat breeds, though there are others and new breeds being developed.

Cat in History till end 1500’s

Cats, those enigmatic and graceful creatures, have woven their presence into human history for thousands of years. Their journey from wild felines to cherished companions is a story marked by cultural significance and evolving relationships with humans. This post explores the fascinating history of cats up until the 1500s, highlighting their importance to human societies across different eras and regions.

The domestication of cats is believed to have begun around 7500 BCE in the Near East. However, it is in ancient Egypt that cats first gained prominent status. Egyptians revered cats for their ability to control vermin, which was crucial in protecting grain stores from rodents. This practical benefit soon elevated cats to a divine status, symbolized by the goddess Bastet, who was often depicted with the head of a lioness or domestic cat.

Bastet, associated with home, fertility, and childbirth, became one of the most adored deities. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was considered a grave offense, punishable by death. The reverence for cats in ancient Egypt ensured their proliferation and integration into human households, marking one of the earliest instances of animal domestication driven by both practical and spiritual reasons.

As trade routes expanded, cats found their way to ancient Greece and Rome. In Greece, cats were appreciated for their hunting skills, much like in Egypt. They were also seen as elegant and mysterious creatures, often featured in myths and art.

In Rome, cats continued to serve as pest controllers. Romans valued them for their efficiency in keeping homes and grain stores free from rats and mice. The Romans’ pragmatic approach to cats ensured their spread across the Roman Empire. Roman soldiers and merchants took cats with them to various parts of Europe, further embedding them in human society.

The Middle Ages presented a tumultuous period for cats in Europe. Initially, they continued to be valued for their rodent-catching abilities, especially in monasteries and homes. However, by the 13th century, cats began to be associated with witchcraft and superstition. This shift was partly influenced by the Church, which linked cats, especially black ones, to pagan rituals and devil worship.

During the infamous witch hunts, many cats were killed, alongside those accused of witchcraft. This persecution paradoxically led to a surge in the rat population, which contributed to the spread of the Black Death in the 14th century. The loss of cats, which were natural pest controllers, highlighted their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Despite these superstitions, cats managed to retain a presence in European households. Their usefulness as hunters could not be entirely ignored, and by the late Middle Ages, cats began to be rehabilitated in the public eye. Stories and folklore from this period often depicted cats as both mystical and beneficial creatures.

By the time of the Renaissance in the 15th century, cats were experiencing a cultural revival. The intellectual awakening of the period brought about a more nuanced view of nature and animals. Cats began to appear more frequently in art and literature, symbolizing both mystery and domestic comfort.

The printing revolution also played a role in changing perceptions. Cats were featured in various woodcuts and illustrations, often shown in domestic settings, indicating their established presence in European homes. This period also saw the beginning of breeding cats for specific traits, laying the groundwork for the diverse breeds we have today.

The history of cats up until the 1500s is a testament to their adaptability and enduring bond with humans. From sacred animals in ancient Egypt to symbols of superstition in medieval Europe, cats have navigated a complex path through human history. Their ability to control pests made them indispensable, while their mysterious allure and companionship earned them a permanent place in human hearts. As we look back, it becomes clear that cats have not only survived but thrived alongside humans, shaping and being shaped by the cultures they have touched.