The '''domestic cat''', or ''pussy'' cat (as opposed to ''big'' cats such as [[lion]]s and [[tiger]]s), is a small furry [[mammal]] of the species ''Felis silvestris catus'' that has for many thousands of years been a constant companion of [[human]]s. Originally domesticated in [[Egypt]] in ancient times, cats have been much valued for their ability to catch [[mice]] and other vermin, and for their loving and loyal relationship with their human masters. The distinctive cry of the cat is the meow, though it is also noted for its purr. Nocturnal by nature, cats living outside of human society, known as [[feral cats]], invariably revert to a night-time existence. | The '''domestic cat''', or ''pussy'' cat (as opposed to ''big'' cats such as [[lion]]s and [[tiger]]s), is a small furry [[mammal]] of the species ''Felis silvestris catus'' that has for many thousands of years been a constant companion of [[human]]s. Originally domesticated in [[Egypt]] in ancient times, cats have been much valued for their ability to catch [[mice]] and other vermin, and for their loving and loyal relationship with their human masters. The distinctive cry of the cat is the meow, though it is also noted for its purr. Nocturnal by nature, cats living outside of human society, known as [[feral cats]], invariably revert to a night-time existence. |