Mammal · GBIF taxon 2435035
Felis catus
felis catusAlso known as House Cat, Domestic Cat, Feral Cat, Alley Cat
Domestic cats are highly adaptable, crepuscular predators that have lived alongside humans for thousands of years as both companions and efficient pest controllers. They communicate using a complex repertoire of vocalizations, including purrs of contentment and high-pitched meows reserved almost exclusively for human interaction. Despite their domestic status, they retain keen hunting instincts, flexible bodies, and exceptional night vision that make them formidable solitary hunters.
CrepuscularDomesticatedCarnivore
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- House Mice
- Brown Rats
- Songbirds
Predators
- Coyotes
- Large Owls
- Cougars
ThreatsVehicle strikes, infectious diseases, and predation by larger carnivores
HabitatsDomestic homes, urban areas, suburbs, farms, and diverse feral environments
Life span12 to 15 years (up to 20+ years indoors)
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderCarnivora
- FamilyFelidae
- GenusFelis
- Speciesfelis catus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Can scratch or bite if startled or cornered; approach calmly and respect their personal space.
- Why it is dangerous
- Sharp claws and teeth can cause deep puncture wounds that easily transmit bacteria, potentially leading to severe infections like cat scratch fever.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for defensive postures such as a puffed tail, arched back, flattened ears, or hissing.
- What to do
- Never corner or force physical contact with an unwilling cat; back away and allow them an escape route.
Responsible observation
- Scent Greeting: Extend a loose, still finger at their nose level to let them sniff you before attempting to pet.
- Body Language: Watch the tail and ears; a twitching tail or flattened ears signal that the cat needs space.
- Petting Zones: Focus on the cheeks, chin, and behind the ears, which contain scent glands and are highly favored.
Direct Ancestor Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
Primary Prey Frequent Companion 
Close Relative Lviatour / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
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