Ever thought you knew everything about cats? Think again! Here are some fascinating facts about our feline friends that will surprise you.
1. The Oldest Known Pet Cat Existed 9,500 Years Ago
Bet you didn’t know that cats were pets long before the Egyptians. In 2004, French archaeologists found a 9,500-year-old cat grave in Cyprus, predating Egyptian art by over 4,000 years!
2. Cats Spend 70% of Their Lives Sleeping
Yes, it’s true. Cats are professional nappers, spending around 13-16 hours a day snoozing. That’s 70% of their lives!
3. A Cat Was the Mayor of an Alaskan Town for 20 Years
Meet Stubbs, an orange tabby who was the mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska, for two decades. Though he had no legislative power, he was loved by locals and tourists.
4. The Longest Cat Ever Was 48.5 Inches
The world’s longest cat was a Maine Coon named Stewie, measuring a staggering 48.5 inches. The tallest cat, Arcturus, stood at 19.05 inches tall!
5. The Richest Cat in the World Had £7 Million
Blackie, the world’s richest cat, inherited £7 million from his millionaire owner who refused to acknowledge his family in his will.
6. Cats Walk Like Camels and Giraffes
Cats walk by moving both right feet first, then both left feet, just like camels and giraffes. It’s a unique gait that few animals share.
7. Isaac Newton Invented the Cat Door
Isaac Newton, famous for gravity, also invented the cat door. He had holes cut into his door for his cats to come and go without disturbing his experiments.
8. A Cat Went to Space in 1963
You’ve heard of dogs in space, but did you know a cat has also ventured into the cosmos? Felicette, known as ‘Astrocat‘, made history in 1963.
9. Ancient Egyptians Shaved Their Eyebrows for Their Cats
In Ancient Egypt, families would shave off their eyebrows in mourning when their pet cat died. Now that’s dedication!
10. House Cats Share 95.6% of Their DNA with Tigers
Your house cat has a lot in common with tigers, sharing 95.6% of their genetic makeup. They also share similar behaviours like stalking and pouncing.
11. House Cats Can Run Up to 30mph
Cats can reach speeds of up to 30mph, fast enough to outrun Usain Bolt in a 200-metre dash!
If these fun facts surprised you, share this article with your friends and spread the love for our feline companions!