A recent genetic study by researchers at the University of California, Davis, has confirmed that all ancestral lines of modern domestic cats trace back to the Fertile Crescent in the Middle East. This region, known as a cradle of civilization for humans, was identified in findings published in the January issue of the journal Genomics, which included an analysis of over 11,000 cats.
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Monika Lipinski, the lead researcher and a doctoral candidate in the School of Veterinary Medicine, stated that this study corroborates previous research indicating that cat domestication began in the Fertile Crescent around 5,000 to 8,000 years ago. As humans transitioned from nomadic herding to agriculture, cats became valuable for their hunting skills, helping to control rodent populations in stored grains.
Leslie Lyons, a prominent expert in cat genetics and principal investigator of the study, highlighted the significance of maintaining genetic diversity in cat breeds to prevent the introduction of hereditary health issues, noting that over 200 genetic disorders have been identified in modern cats, particularly in pure breeds.
Archaeological evidence suggests that cats spread globally alongside ancient trade routes. Unlike other domesticated animals, the development of cat breeds has largely focused on aesthetic qualities rather than functional traits. Currently, there are 50 recognized cat breeds, with 16 considered natural breeds from specific regions, while others were developed recently.
The UC Davis study specifically aimed to analyze the movement of modern cats, assess genetic diversity as they spread worldwide, and identify loss of genetic diversity in older and newer breeds. Researchers collected cheek cell samples from cats across various global populations and breeds, using microsatellite markers for DNA profiling to determine genetic relationships and origins.
The DNA analysis revealed that cats clustered into four groups corresponding to Europe, the Mediterranean, east Africa, and Asia. It was found that randomly bred cats in the Americas shared genetic similarities with those from Western Europe. Additionally, breeds such as the Maine Coon and American Shorthair retained a strong genetic connection to their European ancestors.
Interestingly, the study identified that the Persian breed, considered one of the oldest pure breeds, was genetically linked more closely to Western European cats rather than those from the Near East.
While the research indicated a broad genetic diversity among cats, there was noted loss of diversity associated with establishing foundational breeds. The findings suggest that cat breeders should ensure they maintain a diverse genetic base as they develop specific breeds, thus minimizing health issues linked to genetic inbreeding.
This study received support from the National Institutes of Health, the Winn Feline Foundation, and the George and Phyllis Miller Feline Health Fund, as well as from the Center for Companion Animal Health and the Koret Center of Veterinary Genetics at UC Davis.