E01 | Cat Empire | The Lion in the Living Room

In this first episode, we explore the unique relationship between humans and cats, as well as the science behind this mutual love. From the National Museum of Natural History in Paris to the thousand-year-old Chauvet Cave, we travel back in time to discover the origins of the domestic cat. Thanks to genetic analysis of cat DNA and the latest archaeological discoveries, we delve into the origins of this 20,000-year-old relationship. We visit one of the world's largest cat shows in London to meet passionate owners. We examine the evolution of domestic cat breeds, from tiny Munchkins to crossbreeds with African wild cats. We explore the differences between cats and dogs and the reasons for our attachment to this seemingly useless animal. Guided by ‘feline therapists’, we delve deeper into the psychology of cats and explore some of their lesser-known, sometimes bizarre behaviours.