CIVET CAT Meaning and
Definition
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A civet cat, also known as a civet, is a small, carnivorous mammal belonging to the Viverridae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Civet cats are characterized by their slender and long bodies, with short legs and a pointed snout. They typically have a reddish-brown or grayish fur, often adorned with spots or patterns that vary between species.
Civet cats are primarily nocturnal animals, active during the night, and have a diverse diet that consists of small vertebrates, insects, fruits, and occasionally carrion. They possess well-developed scent glands located near their anus, which produce a strong-smelling secretion called civetone. This musky secretion is highly valued in the perfume industry, primarily for its ability to enhance and fix the fragrance of perfumes.
While some civet cat species, such as the African Civet, are solitary, others, like the Small-toothed Palm Civet, are more social and can be found in small groups. They are generally arboreal creatures, adept climbers, and skilled at maneuvering through trees using their long tails for balance.
Despite their name, civet cats are not true cats but belong to a distinct family within the order Carnivora. They play an ecological role by controlling populations of small animals and aiding in seed dispersal through their diet. However, habitat loss and poaching for their distinctive musk glands pose significant threats to their populations, making some species vulnerable or endangered.
Common Misspellings for CIVET CAT
- xivet cat
- vivet cat
- fivet cat
- divet cat
- cuvet cat
- cjvet cat
- ckvet cat
- covet cat
- c9vet cat
- c8vet cat
- cicet cat
- cibet cat
- ciget cat
- cifet cat
- civwt cat
- civst cat
- civdt cat
- civrt cat
- civ4t cat
Etymology of CIVET CAT
The word "civet" originates from the Arabic term "zabād", which refers to a substance (civet) secreted by the anal glands of certain animals. "Civet" was subsequently adopted into Old French as "civet" or "chivet", retaining its meaning as the glandular secretion. The term "cat" is derived from the Late Latin word "cattus", which originally referred to the domestic cat. Thus, "civet cat" combines "civet", relating to the glandular secretion, with "cat", referring to the feline animal, resulting in the name for a specific species known for its musky scent.
Similar spelling word for CIVET CAT
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