These beautiful, yet wild, cat-like creatures have spots on their bodies and long, ringed tails. Genets belong to the Viverridae family, which includes civets and mongooses. Most genet species exist in Africa, but several thrive in Europe and Asia, from Spain to India.

They often don't make ideal pets, given that they are nocturnal, like to hide, and prefer not to be restrained in any way, making it difficult to pick them up and hold them as one would a cat or small dog. Any genet owner will confirm that it is impossible to hold a genet that does not wish to be held.

Genets have sharp teeth and semi-retractible claws. They will use a bite for defense against humans when scared, but their claws are never used as weapons against people, but employed strictly for climbing and holding prey still as they administer a deadly bite to the neck.

For the "owner" who is prepared to accept Genets as they are, and is willing to provide an environment in which the genet can run, play, and climb, this animal will provide years upon years of joy to his human family.

Feel free to post and view messages. Click "Photos" to view and post photos of genets, click "Files" to view additional photos and view documentation regarding genets, and click "Links" to see interesting web pages on genets.


(PHOTO: 2-year-old Large-Spotted African Genet, named "Snoopy")