Mike Clinton
Introduction: The Evolutionary History of Cats
Cats have been a part of our lives for thousands of years, but their evolutionary history stretches back much farther than that. The earliest known ancestor of modern cats appeared around 30 million years ago, and from there, these small carnivores evolved to become the sleek, agile hunters we know today. One of the key adaptations that helped cats survive and thrive in their various habitats was their fur.
The Purpose of Cat Fur: Protection and Sensory Input
Cat fur serves two primary purposes: protection and sensory input. The fur helps to insulate the cat’s body against the cold, and it can also provide a layer of protection against predators. Additionally, the fur plays a role in sensory perception. Cats have sensitive nerve endings in their skin, and the fur helps to transmit information about their environment, such as changes in temperature or movement of nearby prey.