Catopuma temminckii
Asiatic golden cat

The Asian golden cat is found throughout southeast Asia, from as far north as southern China, west to Nepal, east of Fukien in China, and south to Sumatra (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Guggisberg, 1975).

The Asian golden cat is found in dry deciduous forests, tropical rainforests, and occasionally open habitats with rocky areas (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Guggisberg, 1975; Nowell and Jackson, 1996).

Asian golden cats range in body length from 730-1050 mm (Nowak, 1999) with males usually larger than females (Nowell and Jackson, 1996). The tail is about 1/2 to 2/3 the length of the body, measuring 430-560 mm (Guggisberg, 1975; Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Nowak, 1999). The pelage is of moderate length, dense, and coarse (Guggisberg, 1975). The markings on the coats vary geographically. Colors of the fur vary from golden brown, to red, to grayish brown. The ventral surface of the tail is distinctly white, and is thought to be used for signalling (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977). In the northern part of its distribution individuals have a spotted pattern on their bodies. Almost all golden cats have a pattern of black and white streaks marking their faces (Guggisberg, 1975; Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Nowell and Jackson, 1996).

Little is known about the behavior of the Asian golden cat. It is predominantly nocturnal, usually terrestrial, but capable of climbing trees (Nowell and Jackson, 1996; Lekagul and McNeely, 1977). Local Thai tribesman say the golden cat is extremely fierce, however in captivity the cat has proven to be quite docile and obedient (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Guggisberg, 1975). It has been known to live up to 18 years in captivity; its longevity in the wild is unknown (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977).

Asian golden cats are carnivorous, with a diet of wild hares, small deer, birds, lizards, and other small animals. They have been known to kill sheep, goats, and buffalo calves. They often hunt in pairs when attempting larger prey (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977).

They may be destructive to poultry farming (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977).

Asian golden cats can be used as a source of food. Their pelts and bones are also collected and sold (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Nowell and Jackson, 1996). Golden cats can also be found in zoos (Louwman and Van Owen, 1968).

Deforestation and habitat destruction has caused a decline in the population of the Asian golden cat throughout much of its range. It is also threatened by hunting for the commercial sale of its pelts, meat, and bones (Nowell and Jackson, 1996; Lekagul and McNeely, 1977; Nowak, 1999).

The Asian golden cat was named after Coenraad Jacob Temminck, the Dutch naturalist who described the related species, the African golden cat (Guggisberg, 1975). The Asian golden cat has several local common names given to in different regions. The Thai name is "Seua fai," which translates into "fire tiger". It is believed by the local Thai villagers that by burning the fur of this cat when a tiger is near, the tiger will run away. Some villagers will cook the whole animal and then eat it to prevent animal attacks. Also, villagers believe that carrying a single hair of fur from the cat will keep tigers away (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977).