Cats In the Middle East

Tasneem Alrousan 12/5/2022

Arab Culture

Intruduction:

The domestic cat is a recent arrival on the human-animal scene. The first archaeological evidence of a cat being kept as a pet comes from Egypt around 3000 BC. From that point on, cats became increasingly popular as household pets in many parts of the world.

Cats were first domesticated in the Near East about 10,000 years ago. They were brought to Europe by the ancient Greeks and Romans, and eventually became the world’s most popular pet. The first written record of a cat being kept as a pet comes from ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians had a strong connection to cats. They were revered as gods and were often depicted with them as part of their religious ceremonies. Cats were also used as rat catchers and were good luck symbols.

During the early days of Egypt's history, cats were used as mousers and to rid homes of pests. As Egypt's civilization grew, so did the importance of cats. They were used as status symbols and were even buried with their owners in some cases.

Domestic Cats in Islam

In Islamic history, one of Prophet Mohammad's companions was noted for his intense affection for and care for cats. He was known as Abu Huraira (the father of cats).

Cats, unlike dogs, are permitted to enter homes where Muslims pray because they are considered clean.

According to hadith, the prophet Mohammad forbade mistreating all live creatures, particularly cats. According to one hadith, a woman condemned to hell for torturing a cat to death. So, in the Islamic teachings, Muslims are asked to treat cats well, feed them, and show them kindness only.

Types Of Domestic Cats You Can Find in The Middle East

The Middle East is a western Asian region. It is bounded to the north by the Mediterranean Sea, to the east by the Persian Gulf, and to the south by the Red Sea. North Africa, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq are all part of the region.

Different animals and species can be found in the region, and cats are not an exception.

Persian cats are one of the most popular breeds available. They are noted for having long hair, which can make maintenance difficult and time consuming. They make up for their low upkeep quality with friendliness and astute behaviour.

Another interesting breed is the Bengal cat. The Bengal cat is a domesticated cat breed developed from a cross between the Asian leopard cat and domestic cats, particularly the spotted Egyptian Mau. The breed’s name is derived from the scientific name of the leopard cat.

Are There Any Wild Cats in The Middle East?

It's only natural to locate wild cats in such vast regions and spaces like the Middle East. The Persian leopard, for example, can be found in Iran and Iraq. The Asiatic cheetah can only be found in Iran.

Name your Cat in Arabic

Having a cat around is already a unique experience that only cat owners truly understand. After selecting your cat (or, in most cases, the cat selecting you), you will feel compelled to name it. Something to call it with when you want it to eat, be affectionate, or stop breaking things.

If you're learning Arabic or just curious about the language and want to give your cat a name that will make her stand out even more, you've come to the correct place. We're here to assist you.

Although Arabic names always have an origin and a purpose, it is preferable to name a cat with a simple, short term that has a meaningful meaning and defines the cat.

Here is a list of suggestions for female cat names:

Amal: meaning hope

Farah: meaning joy

Amani: meaning aspirations

Ishtar: meaning goddess of love

Nashwa: meaning euphoria

Noura: meaning light

Zahra: meaning flower

Amoora: meaning cute

Male cat names:

Saeed: meaning happy

Karam: meaning generous

Naeem: meaning comfort

Naseem:meaning breeze of air

Ameer: meaning prince

Ajwad: meaning generous

Reem: meaning ghazal
Kaser: Meaning sassy

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