What is a cat with fangs called? - briefly
A cat with prominent fangs is commonly known as a saber-toothed cat or a machairodont. These cats are characterized by their long, curved canines that were used for hunting and defending themselves in prehistoric times.
What is a cat with fangs called? - in detail
A cat with prominent fangs is often referred to as a saber-toothed cat or a machairodont, which are part of the extinct subfamily Machairodontinae within the Felidae family. These cats were characterized by their long, curved canines, which were significantly larger than those found in modern big cats. The most famous species is Smilodon, popularly known as the saber-toothed tiger, although it was not closely related to modern tigers.
The primary feature distinguishing these extinct cats from their modern counterparts is the elongated canines, which could reach up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) in some species. These fangs were used for hunting and killing prey rather than chewing food. The jaw structure of saber-toothed cats was adapted to allow these long canines to protrude without obstructing the animal's ability to close its mouth.
Saber-toothed cats are believed to have lived during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, with their fossils found in various parts of North and South America, as well as Eurasia. Despite their fearsome appearance, recent research suggests that these animals may have had a more varied diet than previously thought, possibly including smaller prey and even plants.
In contrast to the extinct saber-toothed cats, modern domestic cats and big cats also possess canines, but they are significantly shorter and less prominent. The term "saber-toothed" is specifically reserved for these extinct species due to their unique dental characteristics.