Did Ancient Egyptians Have Any Other Animals as Pets besides Dogs and Cats?

While many are familiar with the modern-day practice of keeping cats and dogs as pets, it is fascinating to explore which animals were popular pet choices among the ancient Egyptians. Beyond these common household companions, the ancient Egyptians also had a variety of other animals that they kept for various reasons, from hunting to hunting reptiles to even aesthetic purposes. Let's delve into some of these fascinating pets.

Dogs and Cats: Familiar and Integral

Dogs and cats were indeed common among the ancient Egyptians. As evidenced by their presence in numerous tombs, cats were even sometimes mummified and buried with their owners or as companions in the afterlife. Kheops, a famous pharaoh, even had a dedicated area for his cats, showcasing the high regard in which they were held.

Much More Than a Cat's Tale: The Ichneumon

In the early periods of pyramid building, there was another pet animal that was quite popular: the ichneumon. These were a type of mongoose, known for their hunting skills and their ability to kill snakes. The ichneumon was not only kept for its companionship but also for its utility in protecting its owners from dangerous reptiles. However, as the use of cats for the same purpose became more common and practical, the popularity of ichneumons waned.

Other Pets and Peculiarities

Aside from the common pets like dogs and the occasional ichneumon, the ancient Egyptians also kept a variety of other animals. For instance, they had tame baboons and monkeys, which were likely not just for companionship but also for their entertainment value. Ornamental fish were kept in fish ponds, reflecting the Egyptians' aesthetic appreciation, and even birds of prey were part of their menageries.

It is also worth noting that there were reports of mummified animals found in the tombs of ordinary people, which shows that pet keeping was not limited to the elite. The standard of living among ordinary people was quite high during many periods of ancient Egypt, which allowed them to afford such luxuries.

Icons of Royalty: Cheetahs and Giraffes

Not all of the exotic animals were considered pets, however. Pharaohs and other royalty sometimes kept tame cheetahs, which were not only impressive animals but also useful in hunting. There are also illustrations of what appear to be captive giraffes, which might have been for display rather than strictly as pets. These animals, while impressive, were not common household pets for the average person.

The Rarity of Horses

Lastly, it is important to note that horses were not part of the Egyptian pet repertoire. While they were certainly known to the Egyptians, as evidenced by their descriptions of them in the Book of Job, horses were too expensive for the average person. Moreover, they were primarily used for practical purposes like pulling chariots or carts, and were not suitable for riding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while cats and dogs were the most common and sought-after pets in ancient Egypt, there was a range of other animals that were also kept. From ichneumons to baboons, ornamental fish to birds of prey, the ancient Egyptians had a diverse collection of pets that reflected their cultural and practical needs. This rich history of pet keeping offers a fascinating window into the lives of these ancient people and their relationship with the animal kingdom.