There may be an older bond existing between humans and
felines than previously discovered, according to Science
magazine.
Human and feline remains found together at a 9500-year-old
grave site in Shillourokambos, Cyprus, may indicate the
domestication of cats at least 5000 years earlier than in Egypt.
Ancient people on the island of Cyprus were grain farmers
who were probably in awe of the hunting prowess of cats who
rid the food areas of rat infestations.
Cats most likely were brought to Cyprus by Turks settling
on the island. The species found was Felis lybica,
a wild cat resembling our domestic striped tabbies, with
larger bodies and longer legs.
