Archaeologists in Jerusalem recently discovered something unexpected on a clay jug fragment: a 1,200-year-old paw print left by a cat “making biscuits.” This adorable, accidental piece of history is the oldest recorded evidence of a cat kneading — a behavior modern cat owners know well.
Cat Caught in Clay: The Discovery
The imprint, found by archaeologist Shimon Gibson and his team from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, shows signs of the cat’s claws and even a bit of its leg, suggesting the kitty was stretching or relaxing on the clay jug as it dried in the sun. “We believe it was kneading rather than just resting since the claws left deep impressions,” Gibson explained.
How Kneading Connects Cats Across Time
Kneading, often called “making biscuits,” is a common cat behavior. Cats knead to stimulate milk flow as kittens, but adult cats continue the habit when feeling comfortable, often on their favorite human or soft surfaces. This imprint might have been left by a cat feeling safe and warm, perhaps basking in the sunlit surroundings of ancient Jerusalem.
The Jug’s Ancient Purpose
Researchers believe the jug was used for storing liquids like water, wine, or oil. Found in a residential area near Mount Zion, the fragment dates to the Abbasid period (750–1258 A.D.), when Jerusalem was under Islamic rule but home to a mix of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim residents. Alongside human life, cats played a notable role in Islamic culture, with references in historical texts and an admiration shown by the Prophet Mohammed himself.
Cat Companions in History
Cats held special significance in Islamic culture and were cherished in many early civilizations. Cat remains found in Israel date back to prehistoric times, indicating their importance across centuries. Marks on pottery are not uncommon; birds, lizards, and even fingerprints from potter’s children can often be seen on ancient ceramics. However, Gibson noted, “This paw print, with claws extended, is a rare find.”
What’s Next for This Purr-fectly Unique Find?
The paw-printed jug fragment has now been documented and will soon be handed over to Israeli authorities for further study or potential display. For now, this little kneading kitty provides a warm reminder of the bond between humans and animals, bridging an unlikely connection between the past and present.
Sources:
Original reporting by Shimon Gibson and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte: https://history.charlotte.edu/people/dr-shimon-gibson/
