Cat

From WikiFur, the furry encyclopedia.

Domestic cats often vie for dominance in the homes of their human companions.

A cat generally refers to a common domestic cat (Felis sylvestris catus). However, it is also used as a generic term for any feline or member of the family Felidae. Felines are one of the most popular phenotypes of furries, with a significant number of these being domestic cats.

There are thirty six recognized species of wild cats. Largest of them is the tiger. The four big cats (classified as such owing to their ability to roar) are tiger, lion, jaguar and leopard - in order of decreasing physical size. At times Cheetahs and Cougars are included in big cats, though they are strictly small cats with a different physical structure.

Most of the wild cats in nature are facing various threats and require our understanding and protection. Loss of habitat and prey, plus poaching and conflicts with humans are having disastrous consequences for the furry felines.

About 40 different breeds of domestic cat have been officially recognized. There are a very few breeds founded through hybrids of domestic cats and another felines species. As house pets, cats often live in arrangements rivaling their human owners for control of living spaces.

Domestic cat breeds are often classified under 'longshair', 'shorthair' and those born through a genetic mutation. There are many recognized breeds internationally, though the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) recognizes only a certain number of them.

Cats are also a staple of pop culture, from comics to television. In animated cartoons, anthropomorphic versions of cats often participate in the story with central speaking roles.