The jaguarundi is a very unusual animal that was once kept as a pet by Native Americans. Today, we'll take a closer look at it.
Jaguarundis are felines that resemble both a puma and a jaguar.
Their body length is 75–80 cm, height at the withers is 25–35 cm, weight up to 10 kg.
The fur is smooth and thick, and kittens may sometimes have spots on it that resemble a cheetah's skin, but the pattern fades over time.
Their lifespan reaches 15 years. Moreover, jaguarundis are very meticulous in raising their young, caring for them until they are 1.5 to 2 years old.
The animals have a graceful and strong body, they are excellent swimmers, but they do not like to climb trees.
The muzzle and ears are rounded, like those of an otter, and the tail is very long.
They live in savannas, on plains, as well as high in the mountains and in the swampy tropical forests of Central and South America.
This cat also surprises with the variety of color shades: they can be brown, red, gray, but you won’t find white fur on them, not a single spot.
Jaguarundis are fearless, intelligent and cunning, they attack only those animals that they can handle.
And before attacking, they can stalk and track their prey for hours, waiting for the right moment.
Another unusual ability of these cats, besides purring and meowing, is that they can imitate the sounds of birds and other animals, and can howl and whistle.
They eat a varied diet; cats will happily snack on small animals, reptiles, fish, and even insects.
They will not refuse fruits and vegetables, and they willingly eat grapes.
Among cats, only the jaguarundi can wait for prey for an hour, sitting on its hind legs and pushing its strong tail against the ground.
And having ambushed the victim, from this position make a lightning-fast two-meter jump.
Scientists have concluded that jaguarundis were the first domesticated cats, which, unafraid of humans, settled near their homes and mercilessly exterminated rats and mice, as well as snakes and insects, which threatened people and food supplies.
Jaguarundis are not an endangered species, but some states are already concerned about their low numbers.
This cat can only be kept as a pet if you have a large property, and although jaguarundis are easily tamed, they still remain wild hunters who prefer solitude and space.
