It is a member of Felidae, the family of mammals in the order Carnivora also colloquially referred to as cats. It is an obligate carnivore, requiring a predominantly meat-based diet. Its retractable claws are adapted to killing small prey species such as mice and rats. Many people assume cats are distant or too independent to become close companions, but that old myth doesn’t tell the whole story. Some cats are genuine cuddle-seekers, happy to curl beside their favorite person and turn quiet moments into treasured companionship. Explore the latest statistics and compare feline populations around the world. Learn about the different types of cat breeds and their characteristics. Find the perfect pet using our cat breed profile selector. Cats also seem to recognize the emotions of both humans and other cats. Cats can see well at night, but they're actually crepuscular, which means they're most active at dawn and at dusk. Describing Cats - What Does My Cat Look Like? This is where you can learn what your breed your cat may resemble and discuss right terms to describe a cat's appearance. It is based on the 1939 poetry collection Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot. The musical tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles and the night they make the Jellicle choice by deciding which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new life. Cats are natural hunting animals and have strong predatory instincts. Cats are built as a perfect hunting animal, they have powerful jaws, long sharp teeth and claws that retract back into their paws when not in use. An overview of the origins and history of cats, how they are identified, their body types and features, and their senses, behavior, and heredity. Our complete A–Z cat breed list is designed for cat lovers, future owners, and anyone curious about the incredible variety of feline companions. From the elegant Abyssinian to the rare York Chocolate, this guide covers every recognized breed—plus a few rare gems you might not have heard of. At Cats.com community we’re dedicated to helping every cat live a happier, healthier life. From nutrition and health to behavior and bonding, we bring together expert advice, trusted resources, and a passionate community of cat lovers.