Cat is a domesticated species of a mammal representing the order of Carnivora. It is believed that first cats were domesticated about 9500 years ago mostly due to their ability to fight pests. At present - together with dogs - they are the most popular domestic animals in the world. Domestic cats come from the African wildcat; in the past European cats crossbred with wildcats. The number of breeds of this species is estimated at about a hundred. Domestic cats live even up to 20 years.