Mountain cats were traditionally called desert cats. In 1992 experts recommended that their name be changed after it was found that they are rarely found in desert habitats.

Subspecies
None.

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 70-85cm, Tail length: 30-35cm, Shoulder height: unknown, Weight: male: 9kg, female: 6.5kg.

Physical description
The mountain cat's coat is brownish-yellow with dark spots merging into stripes. They have a paler underside, a red tinge on the back and the tail is ringed. Mountain cats are stocky with short legs and a short tail. The skull is broad with large, slightly tufted ears, and the soles of the feet are padded with fur.

Distribution
Mountain cats are endemic to China.

Habitat
They inhabit steppe and mountain habitats.

Diet
Rodents are their main prey, but birds are also hunted.

Behaviour
Mountain cats are nocturnal and hunt late at night and in the early morning. Males and females live separately.

Reproduction
The female tends her 2-4 young in a burrow. They are independent at 7-8 months of age.

Conservation status
Mountain cats are on CITES: Appendix II, and their status is classed as Data Deficient by the IUCN.