We’ve had close relationships with our feline friends going back for thousands of years. In 6000 BC, on the island of Cyprus, archeologists found an ancient grave and buried inside they found human and also cat remains. Since Cats are not native to they had to have been bought there by humans. This may be the evidence of the very first pet cat. The Egyptians were avid cat lovers as well. In fact, they were likely the biggest cat worshippers of all time. Cats were often depicted and treated like actual gods. Sometimes they were even mummified after they passed away. There were harsh punishments handed down to those who hurt or killed a cat. It is believed that today’s tabby is actually a descendent of the domestic cat of ancient Egypt. It is thought that the Egyptians forged relationships with cats as they likely killed off the mice that ruined the grain and other crops. It is also believed that cats helped them hunt fowl in marshland areas. Cats were not fully domesticated until around 2000 BC. The Christians were not as kind to our furry friends - they in fact attempted to get rid of them all together. Why? Well, they related them to witchcraft and believed them to be satanic in nature. As Christianity was a new religion they wanted to do away with any links to other cultures. So what did they do? Well, they literally exterminated them. To the extent that the rats and other vermin began to thrive and take over the streets spreading the plague like wildfire; they wisely revised their standpoint and reintroduced cats to get rid of the rats. The cat didn't have an easy time for long though - the Catholic Church didn’t like them much either. They’d burn them along with suspected witches of the day. Fortunately, the modern day cat is loved by most in modern society. Cats come in varying colours, shapes and sizes. All make wonderful pets and great companions, be they pedigree cats or rescue cats.