What is world's smallest cat? Get to know the tiniest cat species, breed

Olivia Munson, USA TODAY
Updated ·2 min read
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From the ones in the wild to those that roam around your living room, cats can come in all shapes and sizes.

Tigers and lions, commonly referred to as "big cats," usually weigh anywhere from 198 to 584 pounds. The largest recorded tiger weighed around 846 pounds, while the largest recorded lion weighed about 690 pounds. 

But what about the other side of the scale? What is the smallest cat in the world? Here is what you need to know about the tiniest felines.

What is the smallest cat in the world?

The rusty-spotted cat is one of the smallest in the cat family, according to the International Society for Endangered Cats Canada. It is the smallest wild cat in Asia.

This feline ranges from around 13 to 19 inches in length and 2 to 3.5 pounds in weight, according to the society. With a length of between 5.9 to 11 inches, the rusty-spotted cat's tail makes up about half of its size.

Rusty-spotted cats are smaller than domestic cats. They have short round heads, long ears and two white streaks by the inner sides of their eyes. They are brown-gray and have various dark streaks and marks over their bodies.

This species is found only in India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, according to the Felidae Conservation Fund. Rusty-spotted cats live in moist and dry deciduous forests but can also be found in grasslands, hill slopes, shrublands and other habitats.

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What is the smallest cat breed?

As for the wild cat's domesticated cousin, the Singapura is the smallest cat breed, according to Purina. Its name means "Singapore" in Malaysian, which is fitting since this cat originates from the country.

Singapuras are small and muscular. Females weigh around 5 pounds, and males weigh about 6 to 8 pounds, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association. This breed does not reach full size until 15 to 24 months old.

They are light beige and have large eyes and ears. Singapuras are a social, playful and curious breed and are often described as "impish," Purina says.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: World's smallest cat: Meet the tiniest cat in the world