The human–cat relationship: How did cats become domesticated?
To celebrate World Cat Day, observed at the beginning of August, we take a closer look at the long-standing bond between humans and cats, companions that have become an integral part of our lives as civilization has advanced. In this piece, you’ll explore how cities famous for their cats have woven these felines into the fabric of daily life, uncover the stories of the world’s most famous breeds, and embark on a deeper journey into the enchanting world of these extraordinary creatures.
Contrary to popular belief, the bond between cats and humans goes back much further than Ancient Egypt.
Scientific evidence shows that cats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Near East, specifically in Mesopotamia and the Levant. When humans settled and started farming, grain stores attracted mice. Cats naturally hunted these pests, providing a valuable service and quickly becoming part of human communities.
The Ancient Egyptians regarded cats as divine beings and revered them because they were skilled at catching rats, safeguarding grain supplies, and warding off snakes. As a result, cats became associated with gods like Bastet, the feline-headed goddess. Harm to a cat was met with strict penalties. During this era, cats spread to various civilizations through maritime exploration. The Roman Empire took cats aboard ships and to military bases to control rats, helping their spread across European territories. Despite the darker times in medieval Europe, when cats were often linked to witchcraft, they never lost their importance to humans. Today, modern urban societies still cherish cats as some of their most popular and beloved pets.
Cities famous for their cats
Cats have lived alongside humans for centuries. They helped control rats and pests in cities, and over time, they became a cultural icon, especially in some cities.
Istanbul, Türkiye
Known as the “city of cats,” Istanbul has gained international fame, often called Catstanbul because of its street cats. Here, they are not homeless; instead, neighborhoods care for them, treat them with respect, and protect them. Their special status goes back to a deep-rooted culture from the Ottoman era. Cats were valued for protecting grain stores from mice and helping keep mosques clean. In fact, dedicated animal foundations were created to ensure their feeding and care. One of the most famous examples is Sultan Bayezid II’s foundation, which established feeding stations for strays and even built shelters for them.
This legacy of compassion and faith continues in the streets of modern Istanbul. While the entire city is known as a natural habitat for cats, neighborhoods like Cihangir, Moda, Galata, and Balat are especially noted for their strong sense of guardianship. In winter, it’s common to see small shelters built for them, along with food bowls and water dishes tucked into nearly every corner. Residents see caring for these animals, meeting both their physical and emotional needs, as a responsibility. The 2016 documentary “Kedi” captured this remarkable bond for the world, sharing the story of Istanbul’s cats with warmth and once again illustrating how deeply they are woven into the city’s spirit.
Click here to read our blog post, which offers a more detailed look at Istanbul and its cats.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor, which looks as if it’s straight out of a medieval fairy tale, is home to thousands of cats roaming its winding, narrow streets. The cats have become a symbol of the city, and some believe they even protect it. As a historic port city, Kotor’s past largely explains the cats’ abundance; over the centuries, cats arriving on trade ships became a vital part of the city, helping to control the rat population. Here, you can find not only streets filled with cats but also cat-themed statues, souvenirs, and even a cat museum. You can also spend time with cats in the main squares, considered the heart of the city. Click here now to explore Montenegro flight options that suit your travel plans.
Rome, Italy
Cats living among the ruins of Ancient Rome give the city an almost mystical feel. One of the most notable examples is Largo di Torre Argentina, an ancient square that now serves as a cat sanctuary. It is also famously known as the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated. When excavations in 1929 uncovered this historic area, cats quickly moved in, and over time, a volunteer-run foundation began caring for them. Most of the cats are now neutered and vaccinated by the foundation and local residents, protecting the wellbeing of both the animals and the community. Click here to explore flight options to Rome that fit your travel plans.
Zelenogradsk Town, Russsia
Zelenogradsk, a town on the Baltic Sea, proudly calls itself Russia’s “cat capital.” The city government takes its responsibility to care for and protect its feline residents seriously: special bowls for food and water are placed around town, benches are designed for cats to nap comfortably, and even dedicated passages are built for them. Zelenogradsk also has an official “cat manager” responsible for their well-being. Cats have become the town’s symbol, inspiring many statues and murals. Adding to this charm is the Murarium, a cat museum located in a former water tower, featuring over 4,500 cat-themed works.
Aoshima, Japan
Known as Japan’s “cat island,” Aoshima is home to one of the world’s most astonishing feline populations. As of 2024, only 4 people live on Aoshima Island, while there are around 80 cats. This means the ratio of cats to humans has risen to about 20:1. Originally brought onto fishing boats to control mice, they multiplied over time and eventually became the island’s main residents. Aoshima may be a paradise for cats, but it lacks basic amenities like restaurants, hotels, or markets. The cats survive thanks to food and donations brought by visiting tourists. Visitors are kindly asked to leave food in designated spots and refrain from disturbing the animals.
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Athens, Greece
Cradle of ancient Greek civilization, Athens charms visitors with the harmony of its historic landmarks and street cats. Around sites like the Acropolis and the Plaka district, cats rest peacefully among the ruins, often appearing in tourists’ photos. In Greek culture, cats are an integral part of daily life, cared for and fed by the community as a common feature of homes and neighborhoods. Wandering through Plaka’s narrow alleys, you’re almost certain to see a cat on every corner, reflecting Athens’ warm and welcoming spirit. Click here to explore flight options to Athens that suit your travel plans.
Lima, Peru
Kennedy Park, located in the Miraflores district, is also known as a “cat park” and is home to tens of cats. Volunteer groups take care of the cats here, making sure they are fed and spayed or neutered. Watching cats rest on benches, grass, or under trees as you walk through the park provides visitors with a peaceful experience.
Houtong Cat Village, Taiwan
This former mining village in Taiwan was completely revitalized thanks to its cats. Once declining and nearly forgotten, the village gained fame in 2008 after a local cat lover started rescuing strays. When a photographer shared images of Houtong’s cats on his blog, the story spread quickly, turning the village into an international attraction. Today, visitors can see special pathways, feeding areas, and cat statues throughout the village. Click here to explore flight options to Taipei that suit your travel plans.
St. Petersburg, Russia
Although Russia isn’t typically known for its street cats, its cultural capital, St. Petersburg, is famous for the resident cats of the Hermitage Museum. Introduced by Empress Elizabeth Petrovna in 1745 to keep rats and mice away, they are now regarded as the museum’s guardian spirits and even its official “employees.” Their presence continues to help protect the museum’s collections, and over time, they have become a cherished part of the city’s culture. The cats are fed on a designated budget, receive veterinary care, and live in a large area in the museum’s basement set aside for them.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, showcases the modern face of cat culture, especially with its cat cafés and Gotokuji Temple. The trend, which started with the opening of the first cat café in 2004, has now spread worldwide. These cafés, where people can spend time with cats, provide a break from the stresses of city life. Meanwhile, Gotokuji Temple is filled with maneki-neko (beckoning cat) statues that are believed to bring good luck and attracts many tourists.
