Golden Pug Print

Dog lovers, behold the Golden Pug! The human obsession with pets dates back to ancient civilizations, as exemplified by the Egyptians' profound reverence for cats. The Egyptians' adoration for felines is well-documented through a myriad of artifacts, including statues, jewelry, and even the world's first known pet cemetery, dating back nearly 2,000 years, predominantly filled with cats adorned with iron and beaded collars. This fascination extended to the point of mummification, showcasing an unparalleled level of respect and care for these animals. Their admiration for cats was intertwined with their religious beliefs, viewing these animals as embodiments of both protective and fierce qualities, traits they associated with their gods and rulers.

However, this reverence had a darker side, as recent research reveals. A study in "Scientific Reports" employed X-ray micro-CT scanning on mummified animals, uncovering the grim reality that many cats, often very young, were bred and sacrificed for mummification. This practice was not just a religious ritual but had transformed into an industry, with farms dedicated to rearing cats for this purpose. While this might reflect a form of veneration, it also suggests an extreme level of obsession, blurring the lines between respect and exploitation. The desire to be buried alongside these mummified cats, a common practice in ancient Egypt, further underscores the complexity of their relationship with these animals, balancing on the edge of devotion and fanaticism.

Read More