The paragraph is followed by an incomplete phrase or sentence which summarizes the main idea of the paragraph. Choose the missing words of the phrase or sentence.

The cat has probably been associated with man since it was first given a place by his fire in return for keeping the cave dwelling free of rats and mice. The relationship between the cat and man has hot been constant, however. Man's attitude has ranged through indifference and neglect to the extremes of persecution and worship. 

The （） between cats and man.