Exploring the Domestication of Cats: A Historical Insight

What did the grave discovered by French archaeologists in Cyprus contain?

• Multiple animals

• A cat and seashells

• Jewelry and weapons

• Only human remains

What year did French archaeologists discover the large cat population in Cyprus?

• 1987

• 1995

• 2010

• 2001

What species is the direct ancestor of all domesticated cats today?

• Felis silvestris

• Felis catus

• Felis bieti

• Felis silvestris lybica

What type of pattern do most wildcats have on their coats?

• Mackerel-tabby patterns

• Solid colors

• None of the above

• Spotted patterns

Which pathway involves animals being first hunted and then bred by humans?

• Adaptive pathway

• Commensal pathway

• Directed pathway

• Prey pathway

Which pathway to domestication is most associated with cats?

• Directed pathway

• Prey pathway

• Commensal pathway

• Independent pathway

What did isotopic analysis of ancient cat remains in China reveal?

• No grains

• Only fish remains

• Trace amounts of millet

• High meat content

What is the primary reason for the physical changes in domesticated cats compared to their wild ancestors?

• Natural evolution

• Diet changes

• Human-influenced breeding

• Climate adaptation

What genetic evidence supports multiple domestication events for cats?

• Two source populations in the gene pool

• All of the above

• Size variations

• Different coat colors

Which ancient civilization is known to have domesticated cats around 3,500 years ago?

• China

• Egypt

• Greece

• Rome