The Ships Cats Who Lapped And Mapped The World

Cats have long been associated with being mysterious and independent creatures. They roam around freely, explore their surroundings, and captivate us with their curious nature. But did you know that cats have also played a significant role in maritime history? The ships cats who lapped and mapped the world have left a paw print on seafaring adventures throughout the ages.

These feline explorers brought a sense of companionship, helped control vermin, and became beloved crew members on many ships. Not only did they provide solace to sailors during long and treacherous voyages, but they also played an unexpected role in mapping the uncharted territories they sailed through.

The Origins of Ships Cats

The history of ships cats can be traced back to ancient times. Egyptians were among the first to domesticate cats and recognize their value in controlling pests. As maritime trade routes expanded, cats were brought on board ships to protect grain supplies from rats and mice. These cats were highly revered and even worshipped as symbols of protection and good luck.

Seafurrers: The Ships' Cats Who Lapped and Mapped the World

by Jack Sutin(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	19189 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	244 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

It wasn't until the Age of Exploration in the 15th century that cats began to accompany sailors on their long and perilous journeys. European explorers set sail to discover new lands and establish trade routes, and ships cats were there every step of the way. These fearless felines became essential assets on board, ensuring the safety of provisions and crew members.

A Sea-Faring Adventure

Imagine sailing through rough seas, battling storms, and facing the unknown. Now picture doing all of that with a furry companion by your side. The presence of cats on ships provided comfort and a sense of normalcy in otherwise challenging and uncertain circumstances. Just like sailors, cats became seasoned seafarers, adapting to life on board and forming unique bonds with their human counterparts.

One famous ship's cat was "Trim," who sailed alongside Matthew Flinders during his circumnavigation of Australia in the early 19th century. Trim was not only a loyal companion but also proved to be an exceptional navigator. He would climb the rigging and observe the movements of seabirds, signaling the presence of land. Trim's unique abilities helped Flinders make accurate cartographic observations, thereby contributing to the mapping of Australia's coast.

A Bond of Trust

The relationship between ships cats and sailors was forged through trust and companionship. Cats provided a source of entertainment and comfort, helping relieve stress and anxiety during long periods at sea. They were also responsible for keeping the ship's rat population in check, ensuring food supplies remained uncontaminated.

Many sailors believed that having a ship's cat on board would bring good luck and protect the vessel from disasters. Superstition or not, the presence of these fearless felines provided much-needed solace and a touch of home during treacherous journeys.

A Legend Lives On

While modern maritime practices have changed, the legacy of ships cats still lives on through tales and stories that have been passed down through generations. These feline pioneers are celebrated for their bravery, companionship, and contributions to maritime history.

Whether it be Trim, who helped map the Australian coast, or unsung heroes aboard countless other ships, the ships cats who lapped and mapped the world deserve recognition for their extraordinary journeys alongside humans. Their ability to adapt and thrive in the maritime environment showcases their true resilience and tenacity.

The ships cats who lapped and mapped the world may not have held a compass or drawn detailed maps themselves, but their presence and unique abilities indirectly contributed to the exploration and mapping of uncharted territories. Their companionship, rat-catching skills, and even navigation instincts helped shape our understanding of the world's oceans and their secrets.

So, next time you find yourself gazing at your beloved feline friend, remember the tales of the ships cats who roamed the high seas. They were more than just ordinary cats – they were legends, explorers, and unsung heroes of maritime history.

Seafurrers: The Ships' Cats Who Lapped and Mapped the World

by Jack Sutin(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	19189 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	244 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A cat’s-eye view of maritime history: “Priceless historic photographs . . . deep and wide-ranging research . . . a ball of spellbinding and hilarious sea yarns.” —Richard J. King, author of Ahab’s Rolling Sea: A Natural History of “Moby-Dick”

We remember the bold seafarers of yore—from Magellan to Shackleton—for their extraordinary exploits: new lands discovered, storms weathered, and battles won. But somehow history has neglected the stalwart, hardworking species who made it all possible . . . yes, the noble cat!

In Seafurrers, able sea cat Bart sets the record straight at last. “Fear of water” aside, cats were indispensable at sea—both as pest controllers and as beloved mascots. Thirty–eight tales recount the adventures of Trim (who circumnavigated Australia),Tom (the sole feline survivor of the sinking of the USS Maine),celebrity cat Simon (a veteran of the Yangtze Incident),and other furry heroes.

Filled with nautical trivia, rare photographs, and whimsical illustrations, this deft genealogy of human–feline friendship will stir your regard for the incomparable cat—whether on the couch or in the crow’s nest.