So Cute Cyprus Cat
The Cyprus cat, also known as the Cypriot cat, holds a special place both in feline history and the hearts of the people of Cyprus. This ancient landrace of domestic cat is believed to be one of the oldest known feline populations associated with human settlement. With a remarkable blend of rugged adaptability, affectionate temperament, and storied heritage, the Cyprus cat is not just a companion animal but also a living link to the island’s deep past.
Historical Roots: One of the Oldest Domesticated Cats
The story of the Cyprus cat begins over 9,000 years ago. Archaeological findings at Shillourokambos, a Neolithic site in southern Cyprus, include the burial of a cat alongside a human—dating back to around 7500 BCE. This discovery, published in the journal Science, suggests that cats were living closely with humans in Cyprus thousands of years before Egyptian domestication, challenging the long-held belief that Egypt was the cradle of cat domestication.
This finding makes the Cyprus cat arguably one of the earliest known domesticated cats in human history, and likely a direct ancestor of many European and Middle Eastern cat breeds today.
Physical Characteristics
Cyprus cats are not a standardized breed in the strictest sense, but rather a natural landrace, meaning they developed through environmental adaptation rather than selective breeding. This gives them some variation, but certain features are common:
Size: Medium to large, with muscular bodies.
Coat: Can be short or semi-longhaired, depending on the region and climate. The coat is typically thick, allowing protection from the island’s sometimes rugged terrain.
Coloration: All coat colors and patterns are found, though tabby patterns are very common.
Eyes: Almond-shaped, often golden, green, or hazel in color.
Tail: Full and expressive.
Their athleticism is noteworthy. Cyprus cats are agile climbers and excellent hunters—a trait likely refined over centuries of living freely in the wild and semi-wild environments of the island.
Temperament and Personality
Cyprus cats are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. Despite their semi-feral roots in some areas, they often display a sociable, human-loving temperament once they establish trust. Characteristics include:Affectionate: Many are lap-lovers and enjoy being stroked or brushed.
Intelligent: Quick learners and problem solvers; they often surprise owners with their curiosity.
| Device | cannon eos 700D |
|---|---|
| Lens | 55-250 zoom leans |
| Location | Bangladesh |
