The name Felis domesticus has been used to refer to the common house cat. However it considered an invalid taxonomic name. The valid name is Felis silvestris catus. Domestic cats date back to ancient Egyptian times where they were worshiped and heralded as sacred animals to the gods of Egypt. The cat has since become an honored and valued member of households worldwide. They are often valued by humans for companionship and their ability to hunt rodents considered vermin in human establishments.