Guest Post - Caring For Your Cat - The Best Way to Manage Your Household Predator

Cats have been an important part of human society for millennia. Until recently, most archeologists believed that cats were first domesticated by the ancient Egyptians approximately 4,000 years ago. However, some recent archeological finds indicate that cats may have been companions for humans for 10,000 years or more; cat remains have been found buried alongside human bones in Neolithic ruins at Shillourokambos that date back at least 9,500 years. This may indicate that even in the first agricultural settlements, cats served as guardians for grain and other food stores and gradually became domesticated as a result. According to this theory, small rodents were naturally attracted to the grain storage sites in farming villages. Wild cats were in turn drawn to the settlements by the abundant prey found there, and over time, they became accustomed to the presence of humans and began to share their shelters and food.

Domestic cats are thought to have descended from five different genetic lines of wildcats from various areas in Asia, Africa and Europe. Scientists believe that all cats share a common ancestor, Felis silvestris, which most likely originated in the Fertile Crescent region of Egypt and spread from that area. They then developed into the following:

• European and Sardinian wildcats in the north
• Central Asian and Chinese desert wildcats in the east
• Sub-Saharan African wildcat in the south

This widely diverse ancestry accounts in part for the many different types of cats in the world today; human intervention and breeding practices have also influenced the development of the various domestic cat breeds.

Today, cats are beloved companions and pets for people throughout the world. Modern life has created some new problems for cats, however. In the wild, cats have access to a far more varied diet including small prey, native plants and other substances, some of which can prove harmful or fatal. Domesticated housecats lead longer, healthier lives on average when they are kept indoors. However, this can lead to boredom and undesirable behaviors. Cat treats can be used to reward good behavior and help keep cats engaged with the humans in the household. Additionally, some better-quality treats can help eliminate the problem of cat bad breath; products like Whiskas Temptations Treats combine a hard, crunchy outer layer with a softer inner layer, helping control tartar that can cause cat bad breath while satisfying carnivore urges. The Temptations Treats line also includes a cat hairball remedy variety that can reduce or eliminate these hazards to feline health.

Regular veterinary checkups, plenty of exercise and a healthful diet are also keys to the health and well-being of domestic cats. Owners should spend time with their cats every day; this bonding time can include sharing cat treats, snuggling, or playing with cat toys together. By rewarding desirable behavior and making healthy choices, owners can ensure that they have many happy years with their beloved cats.

Jessica writes about a wide variety of topics.  She especially enjoys writing about cats. You can learn more about Cat treats at www.temptationstreats.com