Researchers analysed the origins of domestic cats and found that domestication happened later than previously believed. A new genomic study shifts the timeline.
Early arrival in Europe
Domestic cats entered Europe about 2000 years ago. The early Roman Empire marked the key moment. Maritime trade played a central role. The idea of domestication 6000 to 7000 years ago with the first farmers is not supported. Prehistoric remains do not show early domestic cats.
Genomic analysis
Scientists examined genetic data from 97 sites. They analysed 225 bones and produced 70 ancient genomes. Samples cover 10,000 years of history. Prehistoric European remains belong to wild cats. This changes the understanding of how the human cat relationship developed.
Why the Roman era matters
The introduction of domestic cats marked the beginning of long term coexistence. Cats became part of economic, social and symbolic systems. The first wave reached Sardinia about 2200 years ago, bringing wild cats. The second wave, two centuries later, introduced domestic cats and formed the basis of the modern European population.
Role of trade and the military
Cats travelled on grain ships. Roman military camps helped spread them across Europe. The oldest sample dates between 50 BCE and 80 CE. It was found in Mautern, Austria. The origin of first domestication remains unknown. The study explains only the arrival in Europe.
