Science & Nature • Mammals

Black-footed cat

The black-footed cat (*Felis nigripes*), also called the small-spotted cat, is a small wild cat native to southern Africa.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes), also known as the small-spotted cat, is a small wild cat native to southern Africa. It is the smallest wild cat in Africa and one of the smallest cat species in the world. The species is nocturnal, secretive, and listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. While not native to Canada, it is of interest to Canadian readers through wildlife conservation and zoo education.

Description

The black-footed cat is a small felid with a tawny or light brown coat marked by dark spots and stripes. Its name refers to the black pads and underparts of the hind feet rather than the entire foot. It is the smallest wild cat in Africa and among the smallest wild cats globally.

Distribution and habitat

The species is endemic to southern Africa and is associated with dry grasslands, savannas, Karoo semi-desert, and Kalahari habitats. It occurs primarily in South Africa and Namibia, with smaller range extensions into Botswana and possibly neighbouring areas. Its preferred habitat is arid, open environments with sparse vegetation and low annual rainfall.

Behaviour and diet

Black-footed cats are solitary, nocturnal hunters. They prey mainly on small animals such as rodents, birds, insects, and reptiles in arid grassland ecosystems. The species is secretive and mostly nocturnal.

Conservation status

The species is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, with a decreasing population trend. Reported threats include habitat degradation, hunting of prey, road mortality, and poisoning or persecution associated with other predators.

Key facts

It is the smallest wild cat in Africa and one of the smallest cat species globally.
It occurs primarily in South Africa and Namibia, with smaller range extensions into Botswana.
Its preferred habitat is arid, open environments with sparse vegetation.
The species is secretive, nocturnal, and listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
It is named for the black soles of its hind feet.

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Canadian context

No direct Canadian connection is established in the provided sources; the species is primarily of interest to Canadian readers through wildlife conservation and zoo education.

Frequently asked questions

What is the black-footed cat?

A small wild cat species native to southern Africa, scientifically named Felis nigripes.

Why is it called the black-footed cat?

Because the soles and underparts of its hind feet are black.

Where does the black-footed cat live?

In arid and semi-arid parts of southern Africa, especially South Africa and Namibia, with additional records in Botswana and nearby areas.

Is the black-footed cat endangered?

It is not classed as Endangered; the IUCN lists it as Vulnerable.

What does the black-footed cat eat?

It is a carnivore that mainly eats small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles.

References

South African National Biodiversity Institute — https://www.sanbi.org/animal-of-the-week/black-footed-cat/
Supports: Scientific name, habitat, endemic range, and status as the smallest wild African cat.
IUCN Cat Specialist Group — https://www.catsg.org/living-species-blackfootedcat
Supports: Range, habitat, and general species description.
Kiddle — https://www.kids.kiddle.co/Black-footed_cat
Supports: Common names, size, distribution, and IUCN Vulnerable listing.
Animal Diversity Web — https://www.animaldiversity.org/accounts/Felis_nigripes/
Supports: Distribution, habitat, diet, and conservation threats.
Big Cat Rescue — https://bigcatrescue.org/conservation-news/black-footed-cat-facts
Supports: Scientific name, Vulnerable status, population estimate, and lifespan.