Domestic cats are capable of killing and/or eating representatives of several thousand animal species. In comparison, most large wild cats feed on no more than a hundred different species. However, due to their small size, domestic cats pose almost no threat to humans. The only risks are possible infections from bites and, in very rare cases, rabies.
Useful information about cats
Historically, large cats have been a threat to ecosystems that are not native to them, and which do not have time to adapt to their presence. There are cases where cats have caused or contributed to the extinction of certain animal species.
Perfect carnivores
Cats are considered „perfect carnivores,“ as evidenced by their specialized canine teeth and digestive system. The pairs of molars on both sides of their mouth are ideally suited for tearing meat, functioning almost like a pair of scissors.
Unlike most carnivores, cats rarely eat plant-based food. In contrast, dogs and bears often supplement their diets with fruits, roots, and honey (when they manage to find it). Cats feed exclusively on meat, usually fresh. Domestic cats cannot be adapted to a vegetarian diet because they are unable to synthesize the essential amino acids they need from plants alone.
Ancestor of the domestic cat
The wildcat is considered the ancestor of the domestic cat. It is believed that it evolved in a desert climate, which is supported by the behavior of today’s domestic cats.
Cats love warmth and sunlight, often sleeping during the day in the warmest places. Their faces are usually dry, and they enjoy burying them in sand. They can remain still for long periods, especially when stalking prey and preparing to pounce.
As relatives of desert animals, cats can withstand cold or hot climates, but not for extended periods. They have low resistance to fog, rain, and snow, although some breeds have developed greater resilience than others. Most cat breeds dislike water because moisture makes it difficult for them to maintain their body temperature of 39°C (102°F).
The domestic cat weighs between 2.5 to 8 kg (5.5 to 17.6 lbs) and rarely exceeds 10 kg (22 lbs). However, there are cases where a cat can reach up to 23 kg (50 lbs), but this is usually due to overfeeding. This is extremely unhealthy for the cat and should be avoided.
Lifespan of domestic cats
In a domestic setting, cats live for about 13 to 20 years, though the oldest cat on record lived to the remarkable age of 38–39 years. Domestic cats tend to live longer when they are spayed or neutered, or when they do not have access to the outdoors (which helps avoid fights and accidents). Stray cats living in urban areas usually live for about two years or less.