Cats quiz: Easy

The full answer key for this quiz, question by question.

What role did the cat hold in ancient Egypt?

It was revered and linked to deitiesThe goddess Bastet was often depicted with a feline head

Which cat breed is recognisable by its lack of fur?

The sphynxIts bare skin makes it sensitive to cold and to the sun

What are a cat's whiskers mainly used for?

To judge distances and openingsThese heavily innervated hairs are called vibrissae

What is a cat doing when it rubs its head against a piece of furniture?

It leaves its scent to mark its territoryGlands on the cheeks and lips release these messages

What helps a cat see well in dim light?

A reflective layer at the back of the eyeThat layer, the tapetum lucidum, makes the eyes shine at night

Which breed is famous for its large size and very bushy tail?

The maine coonThis sturdy breed comes from the north-eastern United States

Why is a cat's tongue so rough?

It is covered with tiny spines pointing backwardsThese keratin papillae untangle the fur like a comb

How does a cat often land on its feet after a fall?

It twists its body thanks to a very flexible spineThe inner ear tells it at all times which way is up

What is special about a cat's claws?

They are retractable and fold back into the pawThe dog, by contrast, keeps its claws out at all times

How is the cat's natural diet described?

Obligate carnivoreTaurine, essential to its heart, comes mainly from meat