Wild At Heart

All cats -- even those who prefer purring to pouncing -- have tenacious predators in their family tree.

Researchers have recently traced domestic cats back to the wildcat, a species of mammal found on almost every continent. Varieties of these wildcats have been used throughout human history to breed domestic cats for pest control and for companionship.

Help your cat harmlessly hone his natural predatory instincts with plenty of playtime. Lure him on a chase with some string and hide treats or toys for him to "hunt."