The Fascinating World Of Cats: Myths, Lives, And Legacy

Across the U.S., there are almost 60 million pet cats, with around one in four households having a feline companion. Cats are not just pets; they are agile hunters and mysterious companions that have captured human hearts for thousands of years. Their incredible agility—and apparent ability to avoid certain death on a semi-regular basis—has led to the popular saying that cats have nine lives. But where did this saying come from?

Cats began their long history alongside humans in the Near East during the Neolithic period, around 10,000 years ago. As humans transitioned from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to farming, they inadvertently created an environment that was beneficial for cats. The stored food attracted rodents, and in turn, the cats helped protect this food from pests, forming a mutually beneficial relationship. This bond with humans marked the beginning of domestication that would grow in significance over the centuries.

The reverence for cats intensified in Ancient Egypt, where they were worshipped and often depicted in art and religion. Egyptian deities were shown with cat-like features, highlighting the special status that cats held in society. Pet cats were even mummified and buried alongside their owners, indicating the deep connection and respect people had for these animals. Notably, a 2,500-year-old specimen found by French scientists in 2019 included multiple cats, showcasing the historical significance of these creatures in ancient cultures.

Understanding the Lifespan of Cats

Studies show that the average cat may only live to be 14 years old, which translates to roughly 70 in human years. Aging in cats progresses quickly in their early years but tends to slow down as they mature. According to Dr. Lucinda Alderton-Sell, Cats Protection's Field Veterinary Officer, cats between the ages of 3 and 6 are usually at their peak of physical fitness, equivalent to ages 24-40 in human terms.

As cats transition into their senior years, typically around ages 7-10, they may start to slow down and gain weight. Older cats require more rest and tend to adopt a more leisurely pace of life. Reaching the remarkable age of 21 would be akin to a human living to 100, showcasing the incredible lifespan that some cats can achieve with proper care.

Exploring the Myth of Nine Lives

The idea that cats have nine lives likely has its roots in ancient mythology, particularly from Ancient Egypt. The sun god Atum-Ra was believed to take the form of a cat to visit the underworld and was said to have given birth to eight other gods. This myth could explain why some cultures associate cats with nine lives—eight gods plus Atum-Ra make nine.

As time progressed, the fascination with cats and their supposed multiple lives spread across different cultures. In Arab countries, for example, it is said that cats have six lives, while in Spain and other Spanish-speaking nations, the belief is that they have seven lives. This variance in beliefs may stem from the number seven being viewed as a magical number associated with good luck, especially given cats' remarkable ability to evade danger.

Throughout history, the number nine has held significance in many cultures. The Ancient Greeks viewed it as a magical number, while in Hinduism, it is considered complete and divine. Even in the Bible, the number appears frequently and symbolizes completion. This cultural backdrop could play a role in why cats are often credited with nine lives, rather than any other number.

The saying has endured over the years due to our intrinsic connection to cats. As noted by feline behaviorist Anita Kelsey, our love for these creatures drives the desire to attribute them with mystical qualities. Their playful antics and curious nature make the idea of them having nine lives something many of us want to believe.

Do Cats Really Cheat Death?

In today's world, there are countless stories of cats surviving extraordinary falls, reinforcing the notion of their "nine lives." A viral video from September showcased a cat that fell approximately 30 feet from a stadium roof, only to be saved by a crowd holding an American flag below. The cat emerged relatively unscathed, a testament to their incredible resilience.

Cats have a unique ability known as the "righting reflex," which allows them to twist their bodies mid-fall to land on their feet. This reflex, combined with their flexible bones and ligaments, enables them to survive falls from heights that would be fatal for most other animals. One famous case involved a cat from New York that survived a fall from 32 stories, suffering only minor injuries.

Not only are cats equipped with physical adaptations that enhance their chances of survival, but they are also naturally curious creatures that explore their environments. This adventurous spirit often leads them into precarious situations; however, their instincts and agility help them navigate these challenges. Cats' unique physiology, including their lack of a rigid collarbone, allows them to squeeze into tight spaces and escape danger, further contributing to their reputation as resilient survivors.