Cat expert Mikel Delgado talks about catnip, cat naps, and why cats love to lick themselves. The hosts explore the history of house cats, visit a chaotic cat café, and discuss various cat behaviors like their preference for catnip and dislike for water. Plus, a playful mystery sound guessing game adds a fun twist to the episode.
Cats were domesticated 10,000 years ago in the Middle East, revered by ancient Egyptians.
Cats are crepuscular creatures, sleeping up to 20 hours, cautious around water, and attracted to catnip.
Deep dives
Domestication of Cats and Cat Breeds
Cats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent region, which is now the Middle East. Ancient Egyptians venerated cats and mummified them alongside their owners. Today, there are over 45 cat breeds, but cats have remained quite similar to their wild ancestors. Cats lick themselves not only to stay clean but also to distribute their distinct scent for recognition.
Cat Behavior and Sleep Patterns
Cats are inherently crepuscular creatures, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, aligning with when their prey is generally active. Cats sleep up to 20 hours a day, with playtime during the day recommended to help regulate their sleep patterns. Cats are cautious around water due to their grooming habits and discomfort with wet fur.
Catnip and Mosquito Repellent
Many cats respond to catnip, enjoying its chemical nipidolactone, as it can act as a mosquito repellent. Cats roll in and rub on catnip for comfort and to possibly protect themselves from mosquitoes. Catnip isn't their only plant of choice, as some cats also enjoy silver vine and Tatarian honeysuckle.
Curious about cats? Us too! Join Molly and co-host Lynx as they sniff out the answers to some of your most pressing cat questions.
They’ll head to a chaotic cat café to learn the history of house cats, they'll hear a song all about cat breeds, and chat with cat expert Mikel Delgado about catnip, cat naps, and why cats love to lick themselves! Plus a purr-plexing new mystery sound.