martinezlaura+FollowAncient China’s Cat Wasn’t Your House KittyTurns out, the cats chilling with ancient Chinese farmers 5,000 years ago weren’t the same furballs we have today. DNA from old cat bones shows they were actually leopard cats—a totally different wild species, not ancestors of our modern house cats. Domestic cats didn’t show up in China until the 7th century, likely brought in along the Silk Road. Imagine thinking your pet is a regular cat, but it’s basically a mini wildcat! #Science #AncientChina #CatHistory80Share
Melvin Mosley+FollowChina’s First ‘Pet’ Cats Weren’t House Cats?!Turns out, the OG “pet” cats in ancient China weren’t our familiar house cats at all! Ancient DNA reveals that people first cozied up with leopard cats—a totally different wild species that never became truly domesticated, even after thousands of years living side-by-side. The house cats we know today only showed up way later, hitching a ride along the Silk Road. Basically, your tabby’s ancestors were late to the party! #Science #CatHistory #AncientDNA10Share
Michael Flores+FollowAncient Romans Brought Us House Cats?!Ever wondered how your cat ended up ruling your house? Turns out, domestic cats only made their way to Europe about 2,000 years ago, hitching rides on Roman ships from North Africa! Forget what you heard about cats being around since prehistoric times—these furry freeloaders became part of European life thanks to Roman trade and their mouse-hunting skills. Basically, your cat’s ancestors were the OG Roman influencers. Wild, right? #Science #CatHistory #RomanEmpire210Share