The domestic cat: everything you need to know about your pet cat
CONTENT :
- What are the main characteristics of the domestic cat?
- How long have cats been part of everyday life for humans?
- What benefits do cats bring for our health and well-being?
A quiet, independent and endearing companion, cats have a special place in our homes. Whether we live in a house or a flat, we are fascinated by their behaviour, their history and their unique relationship with humans. Whether you plan to adopt a cat, or you just want to understand yours better, let Francodex introduce you to this iconic animal, its daily needs and its impact on biodiversity.
What are the main characteristics of the domestic cat?
Descended from the wild cat, the domestic cat is as intriguing as it is captivating. But what makes this pet so special and so enigmatic?
Physical characteristics
The domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) is a small carnivorous mammal in the Felidae family.
Although there are variations between breeds, this feline is recognisable for its:
- supple body;
- muscularity;
- agility;
- considerable adaptability.
On average, an adult cat weighs between 3 and 5 kg, is around 45 cm long (excluding tail) and stands 25 to 30 cm tall at the withers.
Depending on the breed and the genes that have been passed on, the coat can be short, medium-long or long, solid-coloured or tabby. Colours range from white to grey, black, ginger and combinations like tricolours and tabbies.
Cats’ highly expressive eyes give them excellent night vision, thanks to a light-reflecting structure at the back of the eye, called the tapetum lucidum. As for their hearing, this is particularly acute.
Cats can hear ultrasounds up to 65 kHz, which means they can detect tiny, high-pitched noises, such as those made by rodents. This highly developed sense makes them formidable hunters.
Lastly, a cat’s tail helps it to keep its balance, for example when moving around at height for example. It also serves to indicate its mood.
Specific behavioural characteristics
Independent but not antisocial, domestic cats have conquered our homes thanks to their strong personality:
- they like peace and quiet;
- they choose when they want to be affectionate;
- They have very marked territorial habits.
Every cat has a mental territory, made up of resting, hunting (or playing) and toilet areas.
These crepuscular animals are most active at dawn and dusk. However, they are able to adapt this rhythm to that of their humans, particularly indoor cats. Whether in a flat or a house, they will always find a way to express their instincts, as long as they are provided with suitable opportunities (scratching posts, toys, hiding places).
The domestic cat communicates using a wide range of signals:
- meows;
- postures;
- rubbing movements;
- purring;
- even gentle biting.
Unlike dogs, they don’t try to please, but to make themselves understood.
Intelligent, sensitive and sometimes moody, domestic cats like to keep control of their environment.
What’s more, cats can become stressed when they move house or are subjected to a change in their daily routine, which is why it’s so important to provide them with a stable, enriching environment.
The domestic cat – most common breeds in France: the domestic shorthair, (chat de gouttière in France), is popular for its robustness and well-balanced temperament. The Maine coon is larger and very sociable, much appreciated for its gentle disposition. The Siamese, talkative and affectionate, is another very popular breed. Other breeds, such as Persians, British Shorthairs, Ragdolls, Burmese and Chartreux also have their fans.
How long have cats been part of everyday life for humans?
From unobtrusive predator to couch companion, the domestic cat has a long shared history with humans.
The first evidence of cohabitation between humans and cats dates back 9,000 years, to the Neolithic period in the Middle East. Sedentary villages attracted rodents and therefore African wildcats (Felis lybica). Far from being captured, the felines came closer by themselves, attracted by the easy food. This is what is known as opportunistic domestication.
Unlike dogs, cats weren’t trained, they just quietly adapted, through mutual tolerance. The calmer, more sociable individuals were gradually accepted and became part of everyday life.
In ancient Egypt, cats became sacred, owing to their association with the goddess Bastet. Later, they were sometimes demonised (particularly in the Middle Ages), and at other times appreciated for their hunting skills.
Breeding started in the 19th century. This was a major turning point, marking their official entry into our homes as pets.
What benefits do cats bring for our health and well-being?
Quiet, soothing and independent, domestic cats don’t just occupy our homes, they also affect our emotional balance.
Although the calming effect of cats has not been scientifically proven, many owners agree that having a cat around the house can reduce stress and anxiety.
Their purr, with its regular, low vibrations, is said to have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep. This is known as “purr therapy”.
Stroking a cat also releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with emotional bonding and feelings of well-being. Indirectly, this interaction can help to reduce blood pressure and stabilise heart rate.
For single or elderly people, a cat is a reassuring presence, without the constraints of a highly dependent animal like a dog.
Last but not least, for children, living with a cat encourages empathy and gives them a sense of responsibility, as well as encouraging them to be more gentle.
How do you welcome a cat into your home?
How you welcome a domestic cat into your home is an important step in determining its future well-being. Whether you live in a flat or a house, a few good practices can help provide a safe, stimulating environment.
Preparing your cat’s environment before it arrives
Before your cat arrives, prepare a special space for it consisting of different zones:
- a quiet corner with a comfortable bed;
- water and food bowls;
- clean litter;
- a scratching post.
Domestic cats need stable reference points, so try not to move their things around. In flats, think about creating vertical spaces (shelves and a cat tree) to make up for the lack of outdoor space. In the home, check that doors and windows are secure so that it cannot escape.
You should also prepare toys and hiding places to help it channel its energy and feel safe.
Taking care of your cat’s everyday needs
The first few days: be gentle and patient
When your cat arrives, let it explore at its own speed. Don’t force it into physical contact. It’s completely normal for a new cat to stay hidden for several hours, or even several days.
Make sure the environment is calm and free from sudden noises or commotion.
Plan a visit to the vet’s to check that it’s in good health and its vaccinations are up to date.
A well-managed period of adaptation will strengthen its trust in you and make it easier for your pet to integrate into its new home. And now you’re both ready for years of shared happiness and fun!
Taking care of your cat’s everyday needs
FAQ: Domestic cats
Are domestic cats a threat to biodiversity?
Charming though they may be, domestic cats can have a real impact on local wildlife.
Instinctive hunters, they go on stalking birds, small mammals and reptiles, even when well fed.
According to the French League for the Protection of Birds (LPO), 75 million birds are killed each year by cats, which is a cause of concern for ecologists, especially in vulnerable or urban areas.
Stray or feral cats are the most problematic, but even free-roaming pet cats contribute to this pressure on biodiversity.
To reduce your cat’s environmental impact you can:
- limit access to outdoors, especially during nesting periods;
- enrich its indoor environment.
These days, reconciling animal welfare and nature conservation is a major challenge.
What are a cat owner’s obligations?
As the owner, you are responsible for your cat’s behaviour and any problems it may cause. In France, cat owners are legally obliged to:
- have their cat identified (tattoo or microchip) before it goes out for the first time;
- prevent their pet from roaming, as it must not venture more than 200 m from home if it is unidentified, or 1 km if it is identified and unattended;
- ensure it does not disturb the neighbours (noise, excrement, running away), and repair any damage it may cause;
- pick up any excrement left in public areas, on pain of being fined.
Do domestic cats have a predator?
Adult domestic cats have few natural predators.
However, there are some dangers:
- birds of prey (eagles, buzzards) in rural areas;
- foxes;
- stray dogs;
- wild boar (in rare cases).
Cars, ill-intentioned humans and certain diseases also pose a threat. Kittens, being more vulnerable, can fall prey to martens or large birds. Keep an eye on your cats when they’re outdoors!
