The Smallest Cat in the World Weighs Less Than a Traffic Cone

In the words of the internet: If not friend, why friend-shaped? Vladislav T. Jirousek / Shutterstock

Have you ever wondered what the smallest cat in the world is? While domestic cats can be pretty petite, some small wild cats take tiny to a whole new level. These petite kitties are mighty hunters, expert climbers and masters of camouflage.

From the world's smallest wild cat to the tiniest domesticated cats, small felines come in all shapes and personalities. Let's explore seven of the smallest cat species on the planet, from the world's tiniest wild cat to some other pint-sized breeds.

1. Rusty-spotted Cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus)

Weighing just 2 to 3.5 pounds (0.9 to 1.6 kg) and measuring around 14 to 19 inches (35 to 48 cm) long, plus a tail length of 5.9 to 11.8 inches (15 to 30 cm), this little hunter is officially the smallest cat in the world.

This small wild cat is native to India and Sri Lanka, gravitating toward dry forests and grasslands. You may also see it in eastern Gujarat and Nepal.

Like its larger big cat cousins, the rusty-spotted cat is an expert hunter, preying on small rodents, birds and insects. Tiny rust-colored spots mark its coat, helping it hide in the undergrowth.

Unfortunately, the IUCN Red List classifies this species as Near Threatened, due to habitat destruction. Because of its tiny size, the rusty-spotted cat is often mistaken for a kitten — but don't be fooled, this wild feline is a fierce predator.

2. Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes)

While the black-footed cat may look adorable, it's actually one of the most efficient hunters in the animal kingdom. Native to southern Africa, this tiny wild cat weighs 2 to 5.5 pounds (0.9 to 2.5 kg) and measures 14 to 20 inches (36 to 52 cm) long, plus an 8-inch (20-cm) tail.

Like many small cat species, Felis nigripes has a diet of small rodents, birds and insects. It can take down more prey in a single night than a lion does in an entire day!

This threatened species is at risk due to habitat loss and hunting. Researchers are working to better understand the life and breeding habits of this elusive feline.

3. Flat-headed Cat (Prionailurus planiceps)

This rarely seen small wild cat is native to wetlands in Southeast Asia — particularly Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. With a distinct flattened head and webbed feet, the flat-headed cat is an excellent swimmer and primarily hunts small rodents, frogs and fish.

Its tiny size, measuring around 16 inches (41 cm) long with a tail length of just 6 inches (15 cm), makes it one of the smallest wild cats on Earth. The IUCN Red List classifies it as endangered due to habitat destruction and pollution in its swampy range.

4. Kodkod (Leopardus guigna)

The Kodkod, a cat native to Chile and Argentina, is one of the smallest species of wild cat in the Americas. It weighs between 4 and 6.5 pounds (1.8 and 2.9 kg) and has a short, thick tail covered in dark rings.

Living in dense forests, the Kodkod is a nocturnal hunter, feeding on small birds, rodents and insects. Deforestation threatens this feline's shelter and food sources, making conservation efforts critical.

5. Singapura

Moving on to domesticated cats, the Singapura is the smallest domestic cat breed, weighing just 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kg). With its large ears, round belly and affectionate personality, this tiny feline is a favorite among cat lovers.

The Singapura is energetic and loves climbing trees, playing and socializing with humans. Unlike its wild counterparts, it thrives in cozy indoor environments.

6. Munchkin

Munchkin cat — Munchkin. MDavidova / Shutterstock

The Munchkin is a small cat species famous for its distinct short legs, a result of a natural genetic mutation.It has a playful and affectionate temperament. Though their body length is normal, their legs are much shorter than other domesticated cats.

This breed has become increasingly popular on Facebook and other social media platforms, due to its tiny size and adorable proportions.

7. Cornish Rex

Last but not least, the Cornish Rex is one of the smallest species of domestic cat, known for its curly coat, large ears and slender body. Weighing between 6 and 10 pounds (2.7 and 4.5 kg), this breed is incredibly agile and loves to climb and explore.

The Cornish Rex is known for being playful and affectionate, often behaving more like domestic dogs than cats. It's particularly fond of human interaction.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.