Pseudaelurus

Pseudaelurus is an extinct genus of cat that lived during the Miocene epoch, approximately 20 to 14 million years ago. It is considered a very important genus in the evolutionary history of cats, as it is thought to be a common ancestor of most modern cat species. Pseudaelurus fossils have been found in North America, Europe, and Asia, suggesting a wide geographic distribution.

This early felid was a medium-sized predator, with an estimated body length of around 1.5 meters (5 feet) including its tail. Its build was likely lean and agile, adapted for stalking and ambushing prey. The skull morphology of Pseudaelurus shows a mix of primitive and advanced traits, with a relatively long snout compared to modern cats, but with a dentition that was becoming more specialized for carnivory. The teeth suggest it was capable of tearing flesh and crushing bone.

The discovery of Pseudaelurus has provided crucial insights into the diversification of the Felidae family. It represents a transitional form, bridging the gap between earlier, more generalized carnivorans and the more specialized feline predators we see today. Its existence helps scientists understand the evolutionary pressures and adaptations that led to the development of distinct lineages within the cat family, including the saber-toothed cats and the modern subfamilies of cats. The exact phylogenetic position of Pseudaelurus is still debated, but its role as a basal member within the Felidae is widely accepted.