Page Purpose
You have chosen a career to follow and prepare for, now it’s time to learn more about the species (and breeds) you will work with.
Read about the basic facts and join the Cat Group to learn even more about them, as well as how to work with them, and how to gain experience if you want to work with them. If you are not a member, join us in the OZT Community!
Definition of a Cat
A cat is a small domesticated carnivorous mammal with soft fur, a short snout, and retractable claws. Domesticated (they have adapted to being with humans) cats come in different breeds and colours, some with tails, and some (like the bobcat) without.
Scientific Name: [Felis catus]
A male is called a tom, a female is called a queen, the young is called a kitten, and a group of cats is called a clowder, clutter or glaring.
The word “cat” in other languages:
- Dutch: kat
- French: chat
- Spanish: gato
- Turkish: kedi
Basic Facts
Average Height
23 to 25 cm (9 to 10 in)
Average Weight
4 to 5 kg (9 and 10 lb)
Average Lifespan
10 to 20 years
Average Offspring
3 to 5 kittens
Running Speed
48 km/h (29.8 mph)
Estimated Global Population
600 million+
Active Period
Diurnal
Main Diet
Carnivorous
Taxonomy
The scientific classification of cats:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Suborder: Feliformia
Family: Felidae
Subfamily: Felinae
Genus: Felis
Species: Felis catus
Join the Cat Group
Status: Active
Learn even more about Cats by joining the CAT GROUP.
Members of the Group can create and discuss any cat related topic, as well as access all the different Short Courses, win awards and meet other cat lovers from around the world. Gain experience points with each short course and compete for the top spot on the leader board!
Topics covered in the CAT GROUP:
- General cat knowledge (History, Anatomy, Habitat, Behaviour, Diet, Ecological Benefits & Conservation)
- Cat Care & Health
- Creative (Including education, art, design, publishing, media, news and photography)
- Breeds (courses on over 80 different breeds)
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
This is also the place where you will find links to all of the Animal Organizations that work with cats. Join their special Groups and learn how you can gain valuable experience by volunteering or interning with them.
Career profiles and resources
Contributions by expert members are always appreciated to allow the students to learn about the species they will work with. Please add your contribution through the attached form:
List of Species Mentors/Educators who have contributed to the info:
One Zoo Tree
A few excellent pictures as examples of the species: