The domestic cat (Felis catus) is a small carnivorous mammal of the family Felidae, descended from the African wildcat and domesticated approximately 10,000 years ago in association with early agricultural societies in the Fertile Crescent. Cats are obligate carnivores, possess retractable claws and excellent night vision, and communicate through vocalisations, body language, and scent. The global domestic cat population exceeds 600 million.