A cat is a small, furry animal that people have kept as pets for thousands of years. Cats have sharp claws they can pull in and out, excellent night vision, and incredibly quick reflexes. They're famous for being independent: unlike dogs, who seem eager to please their owners, cats do what they want and might ignore you completely even when you're calling their name.

Wild cats like lions and tigers are fierce hunters, but house cats still have those same instincts. That's why your pet cat might stalk and pounce on a toy mouse, crouch low with its rear end wiggling before attacking, or bring you a captured bug as a “gift.” Cats can jump five or six times their own height, always seem to land on their feet, and spend about two-thirds of their lives sleeping.

People often describe someone as catty when they make snide or mean comments, comparing that behavior to how cats can seem aloof or unfriendly. When something involves tricking and chasing, we might call it a cat-and-mouse game. And if you're curious as a cat, you're constantly investigating and exploring everything around you.