Leopard Cat or leopard Asian cat is a wild breed of cats that live in the Indian subcontinent and in Southeast Asia. Today we know of eleven subspecies of this breed, but its name has nothing in common with leopards, but due to the presence of characteristic spots on the fur. One of the subspecies of the Asian golden (golden) cat is known under the name Temminka. These animals with black, gray, golden or red color live in the foothills of the Himalayas, Malaya, and Sumatra.
Description
The wild high-mountain Asian short-haired cat is quite large in comparison with domestic cats. An adult animal can weigh up to fifteen kilograms. Their color depends on the region of residence. In southern regions, animals have a lighter color. Cats-anglers or Asian fish cats are smoky in color, and wool is even shorter. Their name they received for a characteristic way of life. These animals perfectly swim and feed on fish that they catch on their own.
In the wild, Asian cats usually give birth to no more than two or four kittens, and the pregnancy lasts about 65 days. The little cat feeds for about five weeks, until they grow fangs. If the offspring did not survive, the cat may cause another lambing within a year.
Asian wild cats eat small rodents, mammals, amphibians, insects and birds. Some species extend the diet due to grass, fish and eggs.
Character
All subspecies of wild Asian cats are excellent climbers. Any height for them is not a barrier. In addition, these animals are wonderful swimmers, but they swim extremely rarely. An exception is a fish cat, leading a semi-aquatic lifestyle.
Leopard cats lead a nocturnal life, and in the daytime they sleep in hollows, dens, caves and other places hidden from the eyes, as well as in areas where there is no person. Only in the mating season these animals can be seen in the group. Often a cat chooses a cat, mates with it and after the birth of the offspring for another ten to eleven months the couple lives together. When the kittens become independent and can eat solid food, the male leaves the lair.
If animals live in the natural environment, then maturity occurs in a year and a half. In captivity, these cats mature earlier. Males are ready to mate already in seven months, and females are closer to the tenth month.