Cat Facts

17 Cat Facts About Our Feline Friends You Might Not Know

People worldwide have revered cats for centuries, and many furry friends have earned a special place as cherished household pets. As unique personalities, striking physical traits, and intriguing behaviors pique our curiosity, cat enthusiasts abound. Further, the cat family includes wild and big cats alongside our domesticated pets as our guide to cat facts covering the breadth of the feline world. 

Tracing back nearly 10,000 years, the history of cats reveals ancient civilizations like the Egyptians revered these animals. Fast forward to today, and over 70 recognized breeds showcase various shapes, sizes, and temperaments. 

Cats possess exceptional night vision, complex communication methods, and excellent hunting skills. Whether a cat lover or simply curious about our feline friends, read on to discover that there's much more to these furry felines than first meets the eye.

Related: For more feline appreciation, click on to our cat quotes next, celebrating their bond with us humans.

17 Curious Cat Facts

Cat stare
Photo by Lloyd Henneman on Unsplash

1. Cats have been our companions for nearly 10,000 years.

Cats are thought to have first become human companions around 10,000 years ago when agriculture emerged in the Near East. As our predecessors formed farming communities, they faced a challenge: rodents invading their grain stores. Cats, being natural predators, capitalized on plentiful prey, while humans appreciated their help in controlling the rodent population.

Although researchers continue to debate the precise beginnings of cat domestication, most widely accepted that modern domesticated cats descend from the African wildcat Felis silvestris lybica. 

Recent genetic studies show that ancient feline populations from Europe, Asia, and Africa contributed to contemporary domestic cats' genetic makeup. This indicates that domestication occurred across several regions where people and wildcats naturally interacted7.

Related: 9 Tips for Sustainable Pet Ownership & Care.

2. A group of cats is called a clowder, with males known as toms and females as queens.

Regarding feline terminology, you'll find that a group of cats huddling together is called a clowder. This unique term likely comes from the Old English word "clūdran," which means to cluster closely. The term "clowder" usually refers to domestic cats, while for wild big cats such as lions and tigers, people often use the word "leap."

Within a clowder, the term toms popularly describes male cats. This nickname traces back to the 16th century when the name "Tomcat" was frequently used for unneutered male cats. Eventually, this shortened to just "Tom." 

On the other hand, we call a female cat within a clowder a queen. Some experts believe this term comes from the historical connection between cats and royalty, particularly in ancient Egypt.

Also interestingly, calico cats, known for their striking and vibrant coat patterns, are predominantly female due to a genetic quirk that results in their distinctive coloration. Similarly, orange cats are mostly male.

Siamese kitten
A Siamese kitten. Photo by Vitor Gabriel Carrilho on Unsplash

Originating in Iran's highlands, the Persian cat has been a human companion for centuries. With a distinct appearance, well-rounded face, expressive eyes, and a luxurious, silky coat, the Persian's gentle and loving nature makes them a popular choice as a pet cat.

Hailing from the northeastern United States, the Maine Coon is among the largest domesticated cat breeds. Before becoming house cats, these felines once served as mousers on American farms and ships. Their large, well-muscled bodies and tufted ears make them well-suited for the cold, harsh winters of their native land. 

Third in popularity, the Siamese cat, originally from Thailand, is known for its svelte physique, striking blue almond-shaped eyes, and short, sleek coat. Despite their delicate appearance, Siamese cats have an athletic build with a strong, wiry frame. The Siamese's loyalty and affectionate nature are key to their enduring popularity.

4. Retractable claws make cats expert climbers and hunters.

Climbing cat
Photo by Matias N Reyes on Unsplash

Felines possess a well-known adaptation: retractable claws. Cats can extend or retract their sharp, curved claws at will, allowing them to move silently and stealthily. When not in use, a specialized sheath covers the claws, keeping them sharp and preventing accidental damage.

A cat's claws provide excellent grip on various surfaces, making it easy to scale trees and even walls. When hunting terrestrial prey, they can keep their claws hidden while stalking their target, moving quietly and avoiding detection. Cats quickly extend their claws to grab and secure their meal when the prey is within striking distance. 

Cat feet serve as a means of mobility and house scent glands that allow them to leave their unique mark wherever they roam. 

And you likely didn’t already know that the shape of their claws features in the Hungarian language, with the word for “quotation marks” - “Macskaköröm,” translating literally to “cat claws.”

Also, one of the more interesting cat facts is that researchers have found that female cats tend to have a dominant right paw, and males their left. Further, cats walk similarly to camels and giraffes. Unlike most other animals, cats move both their right feet first, followed by both their left feet.

5. Cats' night vision is six times better than humans'.

One of the facts about cats that demonstrates their evolution is that they possess an ability to see in low-light conditions, thanks to several fascinating aspects of their physiology. Cats can detect even the slightest movements in the dark1 with a higher concentration of rod cells in their retinas than humans.

Another unique feature contributing to their exceptional night vision is the tapetum lucidum, a reflective layer at the back of their eyes that acts like a mirror, amplifying light by bouncing it back through the retina. Consequently, cats' night vision outperforms humans by a significant margin.

Cats' slit-like pupils can also rapidly adjust to control the amount of incoming light, which enhances their ability to see under various lighting conditions. Their eyes provide excellent depth perception, enabling them to judge distances accurately, even with limited visibility. 

6. Cats' whiskers help them navigate, especially in the dark.

Whiskers, also known as sensory hairs, serve as a cat's "GPS" in their environment. These long, stiff hairs extend from various parts of a feline's face, such as the upper lip, cheeks, and above the eyes. 

Cats use their whiskers to detect tiny changes in air currents and vibrations, allowing them to sense nearby objects and navigate their surroundings with incredible accuracy.

Although cats have excellent night vision, they struggle to perceive fine details in the dark. Whiskers act as a tactile sensory system to compensate for this limitation, enabling cats to avoid obstacles and hunt effectively at night. 

Whiskers also play a crucial role in indicating a cat's emotional state. Cats extend their whiskers forward when curious or alert, allowing them to sense their environment better. On the other hand, when frightened or threatened, cats pull their whiskers back close to their face. 

7. Cats need animal-based protein to thrive, as they are obligate carnivores.

Cats, being obligate carnivores, depend on a diet rich in animal-based protein for their health and well-being2

They can't produce essential amino acids like taurine, arginine, and methionine on their own, so they need these nutrients from their food. Animal protein sources such as fish, poultry, and red meat provide the full range of amino acids cats need to support their muscles, immune system, and neurological functions.

The importance of animal-based protein in a cat's diet is evident in the composition of commercial cat food. High-quality cat food brands focus on protein from animal sources and essential vitamins and minerals that ensure overall well-being. 

8. Grooming takes up 50% of a cat's waking hours.

Cat grooming its paw
Photo by Milada Vigerova on Unsplash

Cats are well-known for their meticulous grooming habits. Cats spend nearly 50% of their waking hours on this essential task3.

Their tongues have tiny barbs called papillae, which act as natural combs, quickly detangling fur and catching loose hairs. This diligent grooming keeps their coats clean and free of dirt and promotes their overall health and well-being.

As cats groom, they spread natural oils from their skin throughout their fur, which serve two purposes: keeping the fur soft and creating a waterproof barrier. Moreover, grooming offers comfort and relaxation for cats, releasing endorphins and inducing a sense of calm.

Cats often engage in social grooming, or allogrooming, where they groom each other to strengthen bonds, express affection, or establish social hierarchies. 

This behavior extends to their human companions as well. Cat lovers will likely recognize their house cat wanting to lick or groom them as a sign of trust and connection. 

9. "Kneading" is a comforting behavior stemming from cats' kittenhood. 

Kneading, an endearing behavior, is commonly observed in our feline friends. This rhythmic action involves a cat pressing its paws alternately onto a soft surface, such as a cushion or a person's lap.

This activity, believed to originate from their early days as kittens, serves a vital purpose: by kneading their mother's belly, kittens stimulate milk production, ensuring they receive adequate nourishment for growth and development.

As cats mature, kneading often continues and takes on new meanings4. Adult cats typically knead when feeling content, safe, and secure in their environment. Cats commonly purr, close their eyes, and even drool during kneading sessions.

In some cases, kneading can also indicate stress or anxiety. When a cat kneads excessively, it may seek solace and comfort in a stressful situation. In such instances, providing a calm, safe space and addressing potential stressors can help alleviate the cat's anxiety. 

10. Meows, purrs, growls, and hisses are cats' communication methods.

Cats employ diverse vocalizations to express their emotions and intentions, and understanding these forms of communication is vital for fostering a deeper connection with our feline companions. 

Meows, for example, are often used exclusively for interactions with humans. Cats meow to convey a specific meaning, whether it be a demand for food, a call for attention, or an expression of loneliness.

When cats purr, we can associate this well-known vocalization with contentment and relaxation. Some experts propose that the low-frequency vibrations produced by purring could alleviate pain and promote healing, illustrating the complex nature of this form of communication [10].

On the other hand, growls and hisses function as warning signals, indicating a cat's heightened state of stress or fear. When feeling threatened, a cat may use these vocalizations to establish boundaries and assert dominance. 

11. The rusty-spotted cat is the smallest cat species, while the Siberian tiger is the largest.

Tiger profile shot
Photo by Janosch Diggelmann on Unsplash

Cats exhibit stark size differences between the world's smallest and largest cat species: the rusty-spotted cat and the Siberian tiger. 

Originating from India and Sri Lanka, the petite rusty-spotted cat weighs a mere 2 to 3.5 pounds and can comfortably fit into a person's hand. Despite its small stature, this nimble nocturnal predator skillfully hunts small mammals, birds, and reptiles in its natural habitat.

In contrast, the mighty Siberian tiger boasts a striking orange coat with bold black stripes and hails from Russia's vast Far East forests. Weighing up to an astonishing 660 pounds and reaching lengths of 11 feet, including the tail, this feline is a force to be reckoned with. As a formidable predator, the Siberian tiger can take down large prey such as deer, boar, and even bears.

Although the rusty-spotted cat and the Siberian tiger exhibit significant differences in size and hunting preferences, they face critical threats to survival. Habitat loss due to human encroachment, deforestation, agriculture, and poaching for their pelts or body parts jeopardize their existence. 

Read more: 22 Fantastic Tiger Facts for Big Cat Lovers.

12. Ancient Egyptians worshipped cats, often depicting the goddess Bastet as a cat.

Gayer-Anderson cat
In the British Museum, a photo of the Geyer Anderson cat, a bronze of the goddess Bastet, dates back to ~600 BC. Photo Credit: Peter Shanks (CC BY 2.0)

In ancient Egypt, cats enjoyed a special status as sacred and revered creatures, mainly due to their association with the goddess Bastet. In Egyptian art, Bastet often appeared as a lioness or a domesticated cat, representing fertility, protection, motherhood, and the home.

Serving as symbolic protectors and loyal companions, other cats played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian households, helping control rodent populations and other pests that threatened food supplies. 

Consequently, Egyptians owned cats and treated them as sacred embodiments of Bastet, caring for them as cherished family members and sometimes adorning them with collars or jewelry.

Bubastis, the primary center for Bastet worship, hosted a grand annual festival in honor of the goddess. Devotees from all over Egypt gathered to participate in the festivities, which featured music, dancing, and religious rituals. Cats were celebrated during these events; some were even mummified and offered as tributes to Bastet. Intense periods of mourning occurred when cats died.

However, whereas the Egyptians loved black cats, today, they aren’t as popular for adoption as other shelter cats. Cat charities have suggested this is due to superstition regarding black cats or perhaps that their darker color makes it harder to read their facial expressions. 

Garfield stuffed toy
Photo by Jason Yuen on Unsplash

In the world of theater, Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Cats," which premiered in London in 1981, featured a diverse cast of feline characters known as Jellicles. The production is based on T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats."  and explores the lives, personalities, and unique traits of each cat.

In comic strips, the iconic orange tabby Garfield, created by cartoonist Jim Davis in 1978, follows the daily life of the titular character, highlighting his love for lasagna, his lazy lifestyle, and his ongoing schemes against his canine companion, Odie. Garfield's sarcastic wit and relatable antics have amassed a massive following and inspired numerous books, TV series, and feature films.

Cats have also made their mark in animated films, gaining an appreciation for their distinct personalities.

For instance, Disney's "The Aristocats," released in 1970, tells the story of a group of high-society cats struggling to survive after being kidnapped. A clever alley cat, Thomas O'Malley, comes to their rescue and teaches the pampered kitties the importance of resilience and resourcefulness.

14. Domestic cats can live up to 15 years or more.

Domestic cats, known for their captivating charm and self-reliant nature, often lead long and fulfilling lives, with lifespans that can exceed 15 years or even reach beyond 20 years5. In fact, the oldest cat is thought to have lived to a grand age of 36! 

Although genetics partially determine their longevity, attentive and responsible pet ownership is crucial for nurturing a healthy, happy cat.

Indoor cats tend to live longer than outdoor ones, as they avoid hazards like traffic, predators, and diseases. Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and engaging activities all contribute to a cat's overall well-being and vitality.

15. Cats Can Have Multiple Litters Per Year

Tabby kittens
Photo by Q'AILA on Unsplash

Female cats typically reach sexual maturity around six months of age and can go into heat every two to three weeks. They are receptive to mating during their heat cycle and can become pregnant. 

A queen's gestation period usually lasts around 63 to 67 days, resulting in a litter size that averages between three to five kittens. However, it can vary depending on the queen's age and health.

When caring for their young, a mother cat exhibits strong maternal instincts. They provide their newborn kittens with warmth, nourishment, and protection from potential threats. 

Immediately after giving birth, queens clean their kittens by licking them to remove the amniotic sac and stimulate circulation. This grooming behavior also helps in bonding between the mother and her kittens.

In the first few weeks of life, kittens rely on their mother's milk for nutrition and antibodies to build their immune system. The queen will teach them essential survival skills such as hunting, grooming, and using the litter box as they grow. 

As cats have become popular pets, many owners either spay the females or neuter the males to prevent reproduction. Interestingly, neutered males can live 62% longer than unneutered males.

16. Catnip lulls felines into a playful and euphoric state

One of the more fun cat facts we have to share is related to catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria. Catnip is a mint family perennial herb that fascinates your feline friend. 

When most cats encounter catnip, they exhibit playful and euphoric behaviors, such as rolling, rubbing, purring, and even drooling. 

This response is caused by a chemical compound in catnip called nepetalactone, which binds to receptors in the cat's nasal passage and stimulates the olfactory bulb, triggering a temporary blissful state. 

Interestingly, not all cats love catnip, as the sensitivity to it is hereditary, with an estimated 50-70% of cats responding to the plant. Catnip is safe for cats to enjoy, and owners can offer it as a treat, toy, or training aid to encourage positive behaviors. It also doesn’t affect other animals nearly so much; it might calm your dog a little in small quantities if you’re in a home with cats and dogs.

Related: Catnip features in our compilation of sustainable pet products.

16. Feral cats help maintain the ecological balance

Did you know that feral cats play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance? These resilient felines are skilled hunters born from domesticated cats that have reverted to a wild state.

With their keen senses and agility, they become efficient predators, controlling populations of rodents, rabbits, and other small mammals that can otherwise cause havoc in their ecosystems. In fact, research suggests that feral felines can help mitigate the spread of disease and protect native wildlife by keeping these pest populations in check.

Fun bonus cat fact: Did you know that feral cats have found a home in Disneyland? These cats play a vital role in keeping the amusement park's rodent population in check. Disney has even implemented a trap-neuter-return program to ensure their well-being.

16. Habitat loss, poaching, and climate change threaten many wild cat species.

Sand cat
A wild sand cat, Felis margarita. Photo Credit: Tambako The Jaguar (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Habitat loss remains a primary cause of wild cat population decline6. As urbanization, deforestation, and agriculture expand, these magnificent animals face shrinking territories and dwindling prey. Once teeming with life, forests and grasslands have become fragmented landscapes. This exposes wild cats to greater competition, increased human interaction, and decreased suitable mates for reproduction.

Poaching poses another severe threat to wild cats, targeting many species for their valuable pelts, bones, and body parts. 

Despite international efforts against illegal wildlife trade, demand for these products persists, especially in traditional medicine and luxury markets. This rampant poaching decimates populations directly and disrupts ecosystems' delicate balance. Cats play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity and managing prey populations.

Climate change adds another layer of complexity to wild cat species' challenges. Temperature and precipitation pattern changes can dramatically alter their ecosystems, causing habitat fragmentation, reduced food sources and heightened disease vulnerability. 

As climate change accelerates, cat populations and their prey may experience disrupted migratory and breeding patterns, intensifying their struggle for survival.

Related: To further explore the animal kingdom, check out some of the other animals that start with C.

Pin Me:
Pin Image Portrait 17 Cat Facts About Our Feline Friends You Might Not Know
1

Gomes, F. E., Bentley, E., Lin, L., & McLellan, G. J. Effects of unilateral topical administration of 0.5% tropicamide on anterior segment morphology and intraocular pressure in normal cats and cats with primary congenital glaucoma. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 14, 75-83.

2

Plantinga, E., Bosch, G., & Hendriks, W. (2011). Estimation of the dietary nutrient profile of free-roaming feral cats: Possible implications for nutrition of domestic catsBritish Journal of Nutrition, 106(S1), S35-S48. doi:10.1017/S0007114511002285

3

Vitale Shreve, K.R., Udell, M.A.R. What’s inside your cat’s head? A review of cat (Felis silvestris catus) cognition research past, present and futureAnim Cogn 18, 1195–1206 (2015).

4

McCune, S. (1995). The impact of paternity and early socialisation on the development of cats' behaviour to people and novel objects. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 45(1-2), 109-124.

5

Church, D. B., McGreevy, P. D., Thomson, P. C., & Brodbelt, D. C. (2014). Longevity and mortality of cats attending primary care veterinary practices in England. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.

6

Ripple, W. J., et al. (2014). Status and Ecological Effects of the World’s Largest Carnivores. Science.

7

Driscoll, C. A., Menotti-Raymond, M., Roca, A. L., Hupe, K., Johnson, W. E., Geffen, E., ... & O'Brien, S. J. (2007). The Near Eastern origin of cat domestication. Science, 317(5837), 519-523.

Sign Up for Updates
SIGN UP
chevron-upchevron-down