What poisonous cats are there? - briefly
There are no truly poisonous cats. Some cats have been known to cause allergic reactions in humans due to their saliva and dander, but this is not a result of any toxin they produce.
What poisonous cats are there? - in detail
The notion of "poisonous" cats is somewhat misleading, as true poison is typically associated with biological toxins that an animal produces or stores within its body. However, some species of felines are known for their venomous bites. Venoms are different from poisons in that they are delivered through a bite or sting, rather than being ingested or absorbed through the skin. Here we delve into the fascinating world of venomous cats:
The most well-known venomous cat is the Andean Mountain Cat (Leopardus jacobita), also known as the Ocollo. This small wild cat inhabits the high altitudes of the Andes in South America. Unlike other felines, the Ocollo possesses a unique venom delivery system. It has grooves on its teeth that allow it to inject venom into its prey during a bite. The exact composition and potency of this venom are still under study, but it is believed to aid in immobilizing prey, making the hunt more efficient for this elusive feline.
Another notable example is the Margay (Leopardus wiedii), also known as the Tiger Cat. While not all scientists agree on whether the Margay is venomous, some studies suggest that it may possess a similar venom delivery system to the Ocollo. The Margay's teeth have grooves that could potentially inject venom into its prey. However, more research is needed to confirm this and to understand the specific role of any venom in the Margay's hunting behavior.
In contrast to these two species, the Domestic Cat (Felis catus) does not possess a venom delivery system. Despite popular myths, domestic cats do not inject venom through their bites. The discomfort and potential infection from a cat bite are due to bacterial transmission rather than any toxic substance produced by the cat itself.
In summary, while the term "poisonous" is not accurate for cats, some species like the Andean Mountain Cat and possibly the Margay have evolved unique venom delivery systems that enhance their predatory capabilities. These fascinating adaptations highlight the diversity and complexity of the feline world.