Chinese civilization developed its own rich tradition of cat appreciation, with historical records dating back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE). The Chinese valued cats primarily for their ability to protect silk cocoons and grain stores from rodents, leading to their integration into imperial palaces and wealthy households.

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During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), cats became popular pets among the aristocracy. The famous poet Lu You wrote extensively about his cats, creating some of the world's first cat literature. His poems describe cats with the same affection modern visitors express when they book a cat cafe experience, showing that emotional bonds with cats transcend cultural and temporal boundaries.

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The Chinese developed unique cat breeds, including the Dragon Li and Chinese Li Hua, through centuries of selective breeding. These cats possessed characteristics prized in Chinese culture: intelligence, independence, and grace. The philosophical concept of cats embodying yin energy – receptive, intuitive, and mysterious – influenced Chinese art and literature for millennia.