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The cat has long been known as a fascinating and mysterious creature. In ancient Egypt, the cat was domesticated and became considered the guardian of the temple and was worshipped as a goddess. It was also associated with the moon goddess, Pasht. The Egyptian goddess, Bast, was also associated with cats and is portrayed as having the head of a cat.
The Greeks were probably among the first to discover the cats mouse-catching talents. Cats were not worshipped in Europe as they were in ancient Egypt, but they were very well respected for their mouse catching abilities. They were especially in demand during the time of the Black Plague to get rid of the rodents that were transporting disease.
In the Middle Ages cats lost much of their popularity because they once again became associated with worship of evil spirits. This association with devils and witchcraft cost many cats their lives and gave rise to some superstitions still held by many, such as never letting a black cat cross your path.
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