Genome Study Uncovers Timeline of Cat Domestication in Europe

A recent genome study has shed light on the timeline of cat domestication, revealing that domestic cats were introduced to Europe from North Africa approximately 2,000 years ago. This introduction likely coincided with the maritime trade routes of the early Roman Empire, which facilitated the movement of these animals across the Mediterranean. The study, published in the journal Science on October 12, 2023, provides insights into a significant milestone in the history of human-feline relationships.

Researchers, led by paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, analyzed genetic data from feline remains found at 97 archaeological sites spanning Europe and the Near East. They examined 225 bones from both domestic and wild cats, dating from around 10,000 years ago to the 19th century, and successfully generated 70 ancient feline genomes. Their findings indicate that the earliest domestic cat genomes in Europe are from the Roman imperial period, beginning in the first century AD.

In contrast to previous beliefs that cats were domesticated as far back as 6,000 to 7,000 years ago by early farmers migrating from the Near East, the study suggests a much later timeline. The analysis revealed that remains from prehistoric sites in Europe were predominantly wildcats, not early domesticated cats. This challenges longstanding theories regarding the origins of domestic cats.

The introduction of domestic cats to Europe signifies a pivotal moment in their integration into human societies. As Marco De Martino, another paleogeneticist involved in the study, noted, “Cats aren’t just another species arriving on a new continent. They’re an animal that became deeply integrated into human societies, economies, and even belief systems.”

The research identified two separate introductions of cats to Europe from North Africa. The first, occurring around 2,200 years ago, involved the transport of wildcats to the island of Sardinia, but these animals were not domestic cats. A subsequent introduction, approximately two centuries later, is believed to have provided the genetic foundation for modern domestic cats in Europe. This suggests that cat domestication was not confined to a single region but involved multiple areas and cultures across North Africa.

As explained by zooarchaeologist Bea De Cupere from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, “The timing of the genetic waves of introduction from North Africa coincides with periods when trade around the Mediterranean intensified strongly. Cats likely traveled as efficient mouse hunters on grain ships but possibly also as valued animals with religious and symbolic significance.”

Cats held a prominent place in ancient Egyptian culture, where they were associated with various deities and often mummified for burial alongside their owners. The ancient Roman army’s expansion throughout Europe played a crucial role in the dispersal of domestic cats, with evidence of feline remains found at Roman military camp sites.

The earliest identified domestic cat in the study, genetically similar to contemporary domestic cats, dates back to between 50 BC and 80 AD from the town of Mautern in Austria, a significant Roman fort along the Danube River. This finding emphasizes the importance of military and trade routes in the spread of domestic cats across the continent.

While the study provides valuable insights into the introduction of domestic cats to Europe, it does not clarify the timing or location of their initial domestication. “Cat domestication is complex,” Ottoni remarked. “What we can tell now is the timing of the introduction of domestic cats to Europe from North Africa. We can’t really say much about what happened before and where.”

This groundbreaking research not only enriches our understanding of cat domestication but also highlights the intricate relationship between humans and animals throughout history.