A small felid carnivore descended from the African wildcat (Felis lybica), domesticated ~9,500 years ago in the Near East. Adults weigh 3–5 kg (breed-dependent: 2–11 kg). Over 70 recognized breeds display extraordinary variety in coat color, pattern, length, and body type. They are obligate carnivores, requiring dietary taurine, arachidonic acid, and preformed vitamin A. They have retractable claws, excellent night vision (tapetum lucidum), acute hearing, and flexible bodies. Predominantly solitary hunters, they can form social groups in resource-rich environments. They are crepuscular/nocturnal. Global pet cat population exceeds 600 million. Free-roaming cats are a major threat to global biodiversity, responsible for the extinction of numerous island bird and mammal species. In research, they are used in neuroscience (visual cortex studies) and as natural models of FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus, an analog of HIV), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and polycystic kidney disease. Gestation: ~63 days, 1–9 kittens. Lifespan: 12–18 years. 2n=38.