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Domesticated cats differ from their wild ancestors in a number of ways. In general, house cats are calmer, less fearful of humans, and more tolerant of other cats than are wild cats. Because they have lived under the protection of humans for centuries, domestic cats have developed smaller brains, jaws, and teeth. In addition, their senses of hearing, sight, and smell are less acute than those of wild cats. Unlike wild cats, when food is abundant, female house cats will live in groups and share in the care and feeding of kittens.
 Domestication has also freed the house cat from the need for camouflage, and so we see a wide range of coat colors and patterns. Wild cats covered in a crazy quilt of white and orange would make easy targets for hungry coyotes or feral dogs! |