Civet Cats
Civet cats are indigenous to Central and South America. Any of different cat-like mammals of this small family Viverridae of South and Central America, having prominent anus scent glands which secrete an unpleasant fluid containing a strong, musky scent. Also known as civet cat. These animals have been domesticated and are widely used for their exotic fur. Used in the manufacture of pheromone oils from plants, the thick yellowish black fluid secreted by these animals is also employed in the making of perfumes.
There is one variety of civet, which is referred to as the civet that carries the Chinese virus (Clostridium). In case of a strain of this virus, the animal will excrete a milky white fluid containing a foul odor. The smell produced by the virus may be detected on the skin of the civet, which is usually found between the toes. In case the civet is infected with the Chinese virus and excreted a milky white fluid, the urine of the animal could be identified as the cause of foul odor on the surface of the skin. This is the most common disease affecting civets and is responsible for the death of many civet cats.
Civet cats originated in south-western China. In the ancient times, these animals were used for fur shading in the courts of Buddhist religious buildings. The practice of using civet to protect the Buddha image started during the sixth century. Today, they are popular as pets in many parts of the world. They are kept as house pets and also hunted for their fur. In captivity, the animals are rarely used for hunting.
In southern China, the most closely related of all domesticated civet cats is the Bobcat. It is considered the domestic cat-like body with a short, stocky tail. Its coat may be dark brownish in color or gray in color. The Bobcat has long legs and short ears.
Oriental civet cats are known from the A-P Asia area. It is the most widely distributed civet in the wild. These animals have a broad distribution across Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. These animals are hunted extensively for their fur. The large population of Asian civet cats could be seen in forests, scrub, and rice terraces.
The Bobcat is said to be the oldest civet still living in Asia. It was first domesticated in China around 6000 B.C. Although these animals are now widely hunted for their fur, they have recently gained popularity in Southeast Asia as pets. Many people keep these creatures as house pets and they remain popular choices for pet owners.
