Rusty-spotted Cats (Prionailurus rubiginosus) are captivating creatures that compete with Black-footed Cats and Kodkod Leopards as the smallest wild cat species in the world. Resembling a smaller, “washed out” version of the Leopard Cat, these cats have a unique appearance and behavior that sets them apart.
A Closer Look at the Rusty-Spotted Cat
These cats have a slender body and are smaller than domestic cats. Their fur is short and soft, with a grizzled brownish-gray color and rust-brown spots. Horizontal bars adorn their legs and chest, while their belly and inner legs are white. The head is short and rounded, marked with white streaks on the inner edges of the eyes. The eyes themselves are fairly large, with irises ranging from greyish brown to amber. Ears are short and rounded, and the feet have black soles. The tail is moderately long, rusty-colored, and unmarked.
Distribution and Habitat
Rusty-spotted Cats are found in India, Sri Lanka, and marginally in Nepal. Previously believed to inhabit only moist forests, they have also been discovered in dry forests, bamboo forests, wooded grasslands, arid scrublands, and rocky hill slopes. These cats have shown some tolerance for modified habitats, as they have been found living in abandoned houses in densely populated areas. It is believed that the presence of rats, mice, and nearby poultry serve as a food source for them. They have even been found denning in tea plantations. In Sri Lanka, they can be found from sea level up to 2,100 meters.
Ecological Behavior
Little is known about the lives of Rusty-spotted Cats, but they are believed to be nocturnal. Despite their reputation for being fierce hunters capable of taking large prey, their diet likely consists of small animals. Unfortunately, they are often killed for preying on domestic chickens. These cats are skilled climbers and probably hunt in trees as well as on the ground. In Sri Lanka, they have been observed feeding on winged termites near termite hills after heavy rain. They have also been seen in caves and taking shelter in gaps between large boulders.
Reproduction
The reproductive behavior of Rusty-spotted Cats is similar to that of domestic cats. Mating lasts from one to five minutes and can be repeated multiple times a day. Females remain in heat for about three days, longer if not mated. Breeding is seasonal in captivity, but wild litters have been observed in February. A litter typically consists of one to three kittens born in a secluded den after a gestation period of approximately 67 days. The newborn kittens lack the rusty spotting of the adults and have light blue irises. Their development is likely similar to that of domestic kittens.
Conservation Status
Rusty-spotted Cats have always been considered rare, but recent observations suggest they may be more common than previously thought. Their small size and ability to control rodents allow them to thrive if not persecuted by humans. However, these cats are often mistaken for Leopard cubs and are hunted for their skins or killed by domestic dogs. The destruction of their natural habitat due to human population growth is the main threat they face. Hybridization with feral domestic cats has also been observed. Their status in the wild is largely unknown.
For more information on small cat species, including the Rusty-spotted Cat, visit our guide on wild cat conservation.
*[IUCN Red List]: International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List
