Genome Study Traces Domestic Cats’ Journey to Europe

Research has uncovered significant insights into the domestication of cats, revealing that domestic felines entered Europe approximately 2,000 years ago. A new genome study published in the journal Science indicates that this introduction coincided with early imperial Roman times, likely facilitated by maritime trade routes connecting North Africa to Europe.

The study, led by paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, analyzed genetic data from cat remains found at 97 archaeological sites across Europe and the Near East. Researchers examined 225 bones, dating from around 10,000 years ago to the 19th century, resulting in the generation of 70 ancient feline genomes. This comprehensive analysis suggests that the earliest domestic cats in Europe originated from North Africa, arriving through trade ships transporting grain.

In contrast to previous theories positing that domestication occurred as far back as 6,000 to 7,000 years ago, the findings indicate a more recent timeline. “We show that the earliest domestic cat genomes in Europe are found from the Roman imperial period onwards,” Ottoni stated. This evidence reshapes our understanding of when and how cats became domesticated in Europe.

Trade Routes and Cultural Significance

The introduction of domestic cats marks a pivotal moment in their relationship with humans, according to Ottoni. Cats, unlike other domesticated species, were not merely introduced as a new animal; they became integral to human societies, economies, and belief systems. Co-author Marco De Martino highlighted their significance, noting that cats were revered in ancient Egypt, where they were associated with divine figures and treated with immense respect.

The study identified two distinct waves of cat introductions from North Africa. The first occurred about 2,200 years ago, when wildcats were brought to Sardinia, from which the island’s current wildcat population descends. However, these were not domestic cats. The second wave, occurring around two centuries later, laid the foundation for the genetic lineage of modern domestic cats in Europe.

According to Bea De Cupere, a zooarchaeologist from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and co-author of the study, the timing of these genetic introductions aligns with periods of intensified trade across the Mediterranean. Cats likely served dual roles as effective rodent hunters on grain ships and as valued animals with significant cultural and religious importance.

Military Influence and Archaeological Insights

The Roman military played a crucial role in the spread of domestic cats throughout Europe. Archaeological evidence from Roman military camps indicates that these animals traveled alongside soldiers, further establishing their presence across the continent. The oldest domestic cat identified in the study dates from between 50 BC and 80 AD and was found in Mautern, Austria, a site of a Roman fort along the Danube River.

While the study sheds light on the timing of domestic cats’ introduction to Europe, it does not fully resolve the complexities surrounding their initial domestication. Ottoni emphasized that cat domestication is a multifaceted process, stating, “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 research not only enhances our understanding of cat domestication but also underscores the intricate relationships between animals and humans throughout history, reflecting the broader narrative of cultural exchange and adaptation.