(cats)

Felidae

There are 38 species of cats in this family. Species in this family are found in all areas of the world, except for Australia and Antarctica. They vary in size from the domestic cat to the lion. The members of this family are built for hunting. They stalk, chase, and pounce on their prey. Unlike the claws found in most carnivores, the claws of species in the cat family are are retractable and can be drawn into their paws. This protects their sharp claws from wearing down. They have sharp canine teeth that help them kill their prey. Species in this family have rounded heads and short muzzles. They have excellent eyesight and hearing and a good sense of smell.

Felidae Genera

Felidae General Resources

Acinonyx (cheetah)

Caracal (caracal)

Catopuma (Asiatic golden cat, bay cat)

Felis (small cats)

Leopardus (small American cats)

Leptailurus (serval)

Lynx (lynxes)

Pardofelis (marbled cat)

Prionailurus (Asian small cats)

Profelis (African golden cat)

Puma (puma, jaguarundi)

Neofelis (clouded leopard)

Panthera (roaring cats)

Uncia (snow leopard)