The cat (Felis catus) is also known as the domestic cat and has been a companion of humans for approaching 10,000 years. The cat is a small carnivorous mammal, skilled predator and of high intelligence. Recent research has traced the origins of the domestic cat back as far as 8000 BC.
It was previously thought to have originated as a domestic companion in Ancient Egypt where the god Bast was portrayed in cat form. Bast was viewed as a god of protection.  It is thought that the domestication of the cat played an important role in protecting the Egyptian culture from disease through rodent infestation. They were not the only race and religion to believe the cat was somewhat special, many believe cats to be exalted souls, companions or guides for humans. In Japan the cat is a lucky animal and in Norse mythology the goddess of love Freyja is driven by a chariot pulled by cats.