Genome Study Reveals Key Moment in Cat Domestication History

A recent genome study has shed light on a significant milestone in the history of cat domestication, pinpointing the introduction of domestic cats into Europe from North Africa around 2,000 years ago. This research, led by paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, reveals that these feline companions arrived during the early imperial Roman period, likely facilitated by maritime trade.

The findings suggest that cats were brought to Europe by sailors who needed them as effective hunters to control rodent populations aboard ships transporting grain from the fertile Nile region to various ports throughout the expansive Roman Empire. This challenges the long-standing belief that cat domestication occurred much earlier, around 6,000 to 7,000 years ago, when early farmers from the Near East brought cats into Europe.

Genomic Insights into Cat History

The study, published in the journal Science, utilized genetic data from cat remains found at 97 archaeological sites spanning Europe and the Near East. Researchers analyzed 225 bones, both domestic and wild, dating from approximately 10,000 years ago to the 19th century, ultimately generating 70 ancient feline genomes. The evidence indicates that remains from prehistoric sites belonged to wildcats, not early domestic cats.

Ottoni emphasized the importance of these findings: “We show that the earliest domestic cat genomes in Europe are found from the Roman imperial period onwards,” starting in the first century AD. This discovery highlights the complex history of cat domestication, which appears to have involved multiple regions and cultures in North Africa rather than a singular point of origin.

The research uncovered two distinct introductions of cats to Europe from North Africa. The first occurred roughly 2,200 years ago, when wildcats were brought to the island of Sardinia. Current wildcat populations there are descendants of these early migrants. However, this initial group did not include domestic cats. A second wave of migration, occurring about 200 years later, laid the genetic foundation for modern domestic cats in Europe.

Cats and Their Role in Human Society

According to Bea De Cupere, a zooarchaeologist and co-author of the study, the timing of these genetic introductions coincides with intensified trade across the Mediterranean. Cats likely accompanied traders not only for their skills as rodent hunters but also due to their cultural and religious significance. In ancient Egypt, for instance, cats were revered, and their presence was linked to various deities; royal families often mummified their beloved pets for burial.

The Roman military also played a crucial role in spreading domestic cats throughout Europe. Archaeological evidence reveals feline remains at Roman military camp sites, showcasing the animals’ integration into military life. The earliest identified domestic cat in Europe, genetically similar to today’s domestic breeds, was found in the Austrian town of Mautern, dating between 50 BC and 80 AD.

While this study provides valuable insights into the timing and movement of domestic cats into Europe, it does not clarify the original process of feline domestication. Ottoni acknowledged the complexity of cat domestication, stating, “What we can tell now is the timing of the introduction of domestic cats to Europe from North Africa. We can’t really say much about what happened before and where.”

This research not only enhances the understanding of feline history but also underscores the deep, intertwined relationship between humans and cats that has evolved over millennia. As cats continue to thrive as beloved pets in households worldwide, their historical journey enriches the narrative of human-animal companionship.