
	Highlights Endemic to Africa Fur lies forward on head & neck *Very few studies


	FACE The rounded head with its heavy muzzle is relatively small compared to the stocky body. The face has few markings, just some white patches around the eyes, mouth and lower jaw which extends down the chin and neck. The small ears are black on the back like the Caracal's however there are no ear tufts.


	Golden Cat on the Web IUCN Cat Specialist Group Big Cats Online International Society for Endangered Cats


	BODY The Golden Cat is one of the three medium sized African cats, on average being smaller than the Caracal and heavier (but not taller) than the Serval. The body has a stocky build with muscular legs and large paws. The relatively short tail has a dark line along the top, may have some bands and ends in a dark tip. Unique amongst the cat species, the fur has a distinctive ridge along the shoulders where it changes direction to lie forward. This pattern extends along the neck to the top of the head. COAT The Golden Cat's coat is one of the most variable amongst the cat species ranging from reddish to grey. Spotting can occur at various densities and shades or there may be no spots at all. The underside of the cat is pale to white, often with large blotches. Melanistic and partially black cats have been recorded.