félin

The term "félin" refers to any member of the biological family Felidae, which encompasses a diverse group of carnivorous mammals known for their agility, sharp claws, and keen senses. This family includes both wild and domesticated species, such as lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, domestic cats, and numerous smaller or less well-known relatives. The name "félin" is derived from the Latin *felis*, meaning "cat," and is commonly used in French and other Romance languages to describe these animals.

Felids are characterized by their retractable claws, which they use for hunting and climbing, as well as their acute night vision and excellent hearing. They are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet consists almost entirely of meat. The family is divided into two subfamilies: the Pantherinae, which includes large cats like lions and tigers, and the Felinae, encompassing smaller cats such as lynxes and domestic cats.

Domestic cats (*Felis catus*), a subspecies of the wildcat (*Felis silvestris*), have been kept as companions by humans for thousands of years. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments, from urban settings to rural areas. Wild felids, on the other hand, play crucial roles in their ecosystems as apex predators, helping to regulate prey populations and maintain ecological balance.

Felids exhibit a wide range of behaviors and social structures. Some species, like lions, live in groups called prides, while others, such as cheetahs, are solitary. Reproduction varies among species, with gestation periods ranging from about 60 days in domestic cats to nearly three months in larger cats like tigers. Conservation efforts are critical for many wild felids, as habitat loss, poaching, and human encroachment threaten their survival.

The term "félin" is also sometimes used more broadly in popular culture to describe fictional or mythical cats, though scientifically it strictly refers to members of the Felidae family.