Domestic Cat
Felis catus
The familiar companion cat found in homes worldwide.
Editorial profile — not an identification of your photo.
- Group
- Mammal, carnivore
- Species
- Felis catus
- Coat
- Varies
The domestic cat, Felis catus, is a small carnivorous mammal kept by people as a companion and for pest control. Animal Diversity Web describes the species, its biology and its history alongside humans.
Typical traits
- Retractable claws
- Upright triangular ears
- Coat colors and patterns vary widely
Could be confused with
- Wildcat species (usually larger or differently marked)
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