Cats of Cleopatra: Domestic Pets of Ancient Egypt

Cleopatra is well-known for her beauty, intelligence, and political skills. When she was just 18 years old, Cleopatra became pharaoh and assumed the responsibility of ruling Egypt.

Cleopatra, one of the most famous women in history, had a close affinity for pets

Enough focus has been given to Cleopatra's reign and her romances with different men, so we will not delve deeper into this topic. We will explore some lesser-known elements of Cleopatra's life, such as her bond with animals.

The pets of Cleopatra

Cleopatra was fond of cats. She was fond of them for their attractiveness and graceful behavior, and especially for their role in preventing pests from entering homes and storage areas. Many cats resided in Cleopatra's palace in Alexandria.

Cleopatra had a variety of dogs, including Salukis, which were loved by her brothers and Egyptian nobility for hunting purposes as well. However, the dogs never had a significant place in her affections; instead, they always remained on the outskirts of her attention. 

Egyptian cats are renowned for their elegance and sophistication

Feeling the weight of all the pressure, Cleopatra sought solace in the company of her cats. Cats strolled alongside her in the palace gardens, accompanied her during crucial gatherings, and slumbered in her bedroom as loyal guardians through the night.

The cherished pets of Ancient Egypt 

The Ancient Egyptians placed great importance on cats, viewing them not just as pets, but also associating them with the goddess Bastet, who symbolized fertility and protection. Therefore, Cleopatra's affection for cats further boosted her fame and standing.

The Cat temple in Bubastis

Cleopatra ruled Egypt alone for 21 years and built many temples

The well-known temple dedicated to cats, the Temple of Bastet, was situated in Bubastis during Ancient Egypt. The extensive Bubastis temple complex was adorned with intricate carvings and paintings of cats. In the temple, rituals were conducted by priests to honor Bastet, while worshippers made sacrifices to seek her blessings. Temple priests and worshippers took care of the cats that roamed freely on the temple grounds, believing they would receive protection from Bastet.

Cats were often the subject of Egyptian art because they were beloved pets of the ancient Egyptians

The Festival of Bubastis in the city celebrated Bastet with music, dance, feasting, and pilgrims from various regions of Egypt. Cats were a significant part of the celebration, with images of cats being seen all around.

Ancient Egypt's cat breeds 

In ancient Egypt, households and streets alike were filled with cats of various colors and patterns, regardless of their breeding.

In popular imagination, people often link the Egyptian Mau and Sphynx cat breeds to ancient Egypt

The domestic cats in ancient Egypt were known for their spotted fur, almond-shaped eyes, and elegant behavior. Regrettably, living direct heirs of ancient Egyptian felines do not exist anymore. The Egyptian Mau closely resembles cats seen in ancient Egyptian artwork. Nevertheless, it should be emphasized that the current Egyptian Mau breed has only evolved much later, while another feline breed associated with ancient Egypt, the Sphynx, originates from Canada. Their famous lack of hair is not due to acclimatizing to the warm weather in Egypt, but is actually a result of a genetic mutation.

Another type of cat commonly linked to ancient Egypt is the Abyssinian cat, however, it also did not actually come from Egypt. The spotted pattern of the Abyssinian breed is similar to that of wildcats in some parts of Africa.

The Abyssinian cat is a charming breed often associated with ancient Egypt

 Many people link these breeds to ancient Egypt, however, their actual origins are more intricate and recent.

Hieroglyphic representations of cats

The hieroglyphs of ancient Egypt contain depictions of cats. An hieroglyphic depiction known as The Sitting Cat exhibits a seated feline with its tail wrapped around its body. It represents 'home' or 'family life' and is linked to the goddess Bastet.

                     Ancient Egyptians also depicted cats on ancient hieroglyphs

The image of the walking cat in hieroglyphics shows a cat walking proudly with its head up. It symbolizes the elegance and self-sufficiency often associated with cats in ancient Egypt. Another symbol that represents care and maternal care is a hieroglyph showing a mother cat with her kittens. It represents the significance of family.

The Cat Mummies of Ancient Egypt 

Mummification of cats originated from the belief in their magical abilities and their association with the goddess Bastet. The presence of cat mummies next to entombed pharaohs indicates that cats were beloved companions in both their earthly existence and the next realm.

Ancient Egyptians were the first to desire their pets' company in the afterlife

The catacombs of Bubastis contained a large number of mummies, ranging from young kittens to fully grown adults, all of which were stored in elaborate sarcophagi. Before being buried, cats were embalmed similarly to humans, with linen bandages, amulets, and jewels. Mummified cats discovered in distant locations such as Saqqara, Thebes, and Beni Hasan demonstrate ancient Egyptians' extensive reverence for their pet cats.

Cleopatra's legacy 

As Egypt's final pharaoh, Cleopatra passionately protected the country's autonomy. Since her early days, Cleopatra's intelligence and charm made her stand out, establishing her as an adept leader and negotiator. Skilled in several languages and knowledgeable in politics, she earned admiration from her people and international officials.

Cleopatra initially co-ruled with her father, Ptolemy XII, before taking sole control and adeptly managing Egypt's political landscape. During her rule, she formed romances and engaged in disputes with Rome while protecting Egypt's independence.

One of Cleopatra's most well-known romances was with Julius Caesar, the influential Roman military leader and politician. Their love resulted in the arrival of a son, Caesarion, whom she wanted to be the heir to Egypt's throne.

Following Caesar's murder, Cleopatra allied with Mark Antony to oppose Octavian in the Roman Civil Wars. Their legendary partnership, in both political and romantic aspects, is well-known. Unfortunately, Egypt's era of pharaohs came to an end with Cleopatra's defeat at Actium in 31 BCE, resulting in its annexation by Rome.

Cleopatra's cats weren't just pets; they were part of her family. Even as Cleopatra faced Roman conquest, her cats stayed by her side, providing comfort in uncertain times.

Cleopatra continues to be remembered as a representation of female strength, intellect, and the charm of ancient Egypt. Her lifestory still serves as a source of inspiration for art, literature, and research across the globe.