The relationship between humans and animals has been evolving for thousands of years, and animal companions are just as loved today as they were in the ancient world. It wasn't always just cats and dogs, however. Pets in ancient history consisted of creatures from all branches of the tree of life. Reptiles, birds, fish, and many other creatures have lived with us since time immemorial. These historical pets are as fascinating as ever, and they give us a glimpse into the everyday lives of our ancient ancestors. Via: Ranker
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As artists and scientists throughout history began to study animals in earnest and create compendiums of fantastic beasts (and where to find them), they had to rely on secondhand knowledge to create their own drawings. The result? Hilariously inaccurate and weird depictions of creatures that look more like they come from a Dr. Seuss book than an encyclopedia. Via: Ranker
Of all the species that humans have domesticated, dogs are our oldest animal friends. But how did a group of wolves become the furry pup at the end of the bed? New research is finally unlocking the paw-in-hand evolution of dogs and humans. In this episode we're answering one big question: Did we domesticate dogs, or did dogs domesticate us? Interesting tail...
Whenever you complain about the rain, remember it could always be worse. Via: Shared.com
Cats were making history long before they ruled the internet. Here are 10 noteworthy felines who left their pawprints on the world.
Via: Mental Floss
Illustrator Sam Kalda, created Men and Cats: An Illustrated History. Profiling famous cat-loving men throughout history, from writers to fashion designers, the ongoing series includes the likes of Haruki Murakami, Karl Lagerfeld and Ernest Hemingway.
The Brooklyn-based illustrator casts some light on another part of the personalities of these men, showing them to be just as loving as they are thoughtful. Find out more on Kalda's website. Via: It's Nice That
Cats have held human fascination for thousands of years, from the Ancient Egypt feline warrior goddess Bastet to modern YouTube videos of kittens riding on a Roomba. The History of Cats in 101 Objects is a fun, fact-filled visual history of the human relationship with cats. The book covers topics such as: the adoration of cats throughout history, the evolution of the domestic cat and rise of the indoor cat, Contemporary cat obsessions and products perfect for every feline fanatic.
This charming book also delves into how cats have slinked their way into some of our most lasting works of literature, films, television and other pop culture, and it explores the mesmerizing behaviors we adore, from swatting balls of yarn to taking cat naps in strange places.
The perfect book for anyone who has a fluffy-yet-infuriating feline companion of their own. If interested, you can buy it HERE for 14.99$.
While cats might not immediately stand out as brave military animals, the fluffy little felines served an important role in the lives of soldiers, serving as mousers and ratters to protect vital food stores and prevent the spread of disease. But perhaps more importantly, cats often served as a morale boost for soldiers. Many cats were adopted as "mascots" whether it was in the trenches of WWI, aboard battleships, planes or tanks. Via: Flashback & Meowingtons
