Cats were introduced to China from the Western Regions during the Han Dynasty. According to historical records, a king from the Western Regions named Zhizhiqian presented Emperor Wu of Han with a pair of animals called "Yaye," one of which was a cat. This was the first time cats were officially introduced to China.
The ancestors of domestic cats are said to have originated from the desert cat of ancient Egypt. Later, cats were brought to China and interbred with local wild cats, resulting in many breeds. In China, cats have always been regarded as auspicious animals, especially black cats, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
