Mammals
Leopard Cat
Prionailurus bengalensis · also called Asian leopard cat
Slipping between rows of a plantation at dusk, a leopard cat hunts rodents with a tiny leopard’s spotted coat, a wild cat comfortable enough around people to survive across much of Asia.
Overview
The leopard cat, Prionailurus bengalensis, is a Least Concern small cat native to a broad range across South, Southeast, and East Asia. Its spotted coat, adaptability, and role as the wild ancestor of the Bengal cat breed make it one of the best-known small wild cats in Asia.
The wild cat behind the Bengal
The domestic Bengal cat gets its spotted look from the leopard cat, which was crossed with domestic cats to create the breed, a reminder that this small wild species lives on in many homes.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and adaptable across much of its range, though some island and regional populations are more vulnerable.
Leopard Cat: common questions
Is the leopard cat related to the leopard?
No, it is a small cat in its own genus, named for its spotted coat rather than for any close relationship to the leopard.
How is the leopard cat connected to the Bengal cat?
The domestic Bengal cat breed was created by crossing leopard cats with domestic cats, which gave the breed its spotted, wild look.
Why is the leopard cat so widespread?
It is highly adaptable, living in forests, grasslands, and even plantations and farmland, which has made it one of Asia's most widespread small cats.
Where is the leopard cat found?
It is native to a broad range across South, Southeast, and East Asia.