The cat (Felis catus) is a small civetlike carnivorous mammal. Cats have evolved from the civetlike ancestor Proailurus and are closely related to other feline species, including lions, tigers and leopards. The cat is the only domesticated member of the family Felidae, and is often regarded as a symbol of power, independence and intelligence. Cats have a wide range of vocalizations, including meowing, purring, trilling and hissing, and communicate with body language as well. They are highly sensitive to scent messages, both from glands on their faces and bodies and from urine and faeces.
They have poor colour vision and are near-sighted, so their view of the world is dominated by shades of blue and green. In contrast, dogs and humans see a much more vibrant spectrum of colours.
Cats have an ancestral tie to desert environments, which explains their low thirst drive and their ability to hydrate themselves through prey. Cats also have a high degree of flexibility, which makes them more agile hunters.
Their whiskers are highly sensitive and can detect even the smallest movements of objects in front of them. They can use their whiskers to feel the way a door opens or if they are on a slippery floor.
They can sense a change in the environment around them, such as new household cleaners and deodorisers, visiting people or other animals, furniture being moved, or someone entering or leaving the home. Cats may react quickly to these changes in their surroundings and are fast learners.