Domestic Cat Characteristics

Body type: Muscular, flexible, and agile
Coat: Variety of lengths, textures, and colors (solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, pointed)
Eyes: Almond-shaped, range of colors (blue, green, gold, copper)
Ears: Triangular, pointed, and very mobile
Tail: Long, flexible, and balance aid
Size: Domestic cats typically weigh 8-12 pounds (3.5-5.5 kg) and reach 10-15 inches (25-38 cm) in length

Vocalization: Meowing, purring, hissing, growling, and spitting to communicate
Body language: Posture, facial expressions, and tail positions convey mood and intentions
Grooming: Self-grooming and social grooming with other cats
Territorial marking: Scratching, spraying, and rubbing to mark territory
Play and hunting: Natural predators with innate hunting instincts

Diet: Obligate carnivores, requiring protein-rich food
Nutrient requirements: Taurine, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid essential for health
Common health issues: Urinary tract problems, dental issues, and obesity
Lifespan: Average 12-15 years, with some breeds living up to 20 years

** Origins:** Domesticated from African wildcats (Felis silvestris lybica) around 10,000 years ago
Breed diversity: Over 70 recognized breeds, ranging from Sphynx to Maine Coon
Popularity: One of the most popular pets worldwide, with over 600 million domestic cats

Domestic cats have a muscular, flexible, and agile body type.
Their coat varies in length, texture, and color, including solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, and pointed patterns.
Almond-shaped eyes come in a range of colors, including blue, green, gold, and copper.
Triangular ears are pointed and very mobile.
A long, flexible tail aids balance and communication.
Domestic cats typically weigh between 8-12 pounds (3.5-5.5 kg) and reach 10-15 inches (25-38 cm) in length.

Cats communicate through vocalization, including meowing, purring, hissing, growling, and spitting.
Posture, facial expressions, and tail positions convey mood and intentions through body language.
Self-grooming and social grooming with other cats are essential behaviors.
Cats mark their territory through scratching, spraying, and rubbing.
Natural predators, cats have innate hunting instincts and engage in play and hunting behaviors.

As obligate carnivores, cats require protein-rich food to survive.
Taurine, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid are essential nutrients for feline health.
Common health issues in domestic cats include urinary tract problems, dental issues, and obesity.
The average lifespan of a domestic cat is 12-15 years, with some breeds living up to 20 years.

Domestic cats were first domesticated from African wildcats (Felis silvestris lybica) around 10,000 years ago.
There are over 70 recognized breeds of domestic cats, ranging from the hairless Sphynx to the large Maine Coon.
With over 600 million domestic cats worldwide, they are one of the most popular pets globally.