How are leopard cats called? - briefly
Leopard cats are also known as Asian leopard cats or Prionailurus bengalensis.
How are leopard cats called? - in detail
Leopard cats, also known as Asian leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis), are small wild felids native to South and Southeast Asia. The name "leopard cat" is derived from their distinctive coat pattern, which resembles that of a leopard. These cats have a short, dense fur with a yellowish-brown background color, marked by black or dark brown rosettes and stripes. Despite their common name, they are not closely related to the African leopards (Panthera pardus).
In various regions of their range, leopard cats may have different local names. For instance, in India, they are often referred to as "jungle cats" or simply "Indian wild cats." In Thailand, they are known as "dokmae-suea," which translates to "flower cat" due to their beautiful coat pattern. Additionally, some cultures may have unique names for these cats based on their folklore and cultural significance.
Scientifically, leopard cats belong to the genus Prionailurus, which includes other small wild cat species such as the rusty-spotted cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus) and the fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus). The specific epithet "bengalensis" in their scientific name refers to Bengal, a historical region that spans parts of India and Bangladesh. This reflects the geographical origin where these cats were first described by scientists.
In summary, leopard cats are known by various names across different regions and cultures. Their common name is derived from their striking coat pattern, while their scientific classification places them within a specific genus of small wild cats.