The Black-Footed Cat is widely recognized as the smallest of the exotic cats. A rare and beautiful cat with distinctive markings, the Black-footed Cat has been known to go days without water, obtaining the moisture he needs only from his prey.

As with any exotic cat, it is important that a prospective owner be well educated in the special needs of the Black-Footed Cats. In the wild, the Black-Footed Cat is primarily nocturnal in nature. This cat spends the day hiding in secluded, cool dens, under the cover of rocks and boulders. The Black-Footed Cat has earned the name "Anthill Cat" in some locations because he has been known to hide in dens near and in anthills. The main prey of this cat, as with many small exotic cats, is small rodents, especially gerbils, ground squirrels and mice. The Black-Footed Cat has also been known to prey on small hare, reptiles, insects and birds, depending on location and availability of prey. These cats hunt primarily by ambush. With larger prey, the Black-Footed Cat often hides the carcass away and returns to scavenge later. As a pet, it is recommended that the Black-Footed Cat have his own enclosure to roam, despite the small stature of this cat. The enclosure should be built in accordance with local rules and regulations. Proper licensing is required to own exotic cats. Without the proper license, the cat may be confiscated and euthanized. The enclosure should include ample opportunities for climbing, including rocks and logs. It should also include places for the cat to build a den and to hide. A constant supply of fresh water is suggested, despite the Black-Footed Cat's adaptations to do without water. Fresh meat is recommended for proper health for this cat, although there are reports of exotic cats showing no ill effects from a diet of all commercial food. Vitamin supplements can be used to ensure the proper health of the cat. As with any exotic cat, training is recommended for the Black-Footed Cat. Proper handling and training is a preventative measure against unfortunate accidents involving family members and other household pets. The Black-Footed Cat should be taught from a young age to not bite, claw or climb on owners. These cats have been known to live as long as 13 years, so prospective owners should consider this a lifetime commitment. Constituency plans should be made in case the owner is no longer able or willing to care for the cat. Assuming that a zoo will be able to take in the Black-Footed Cat is poor planning.

The small Black-Footed Cat can be smaller than most domestic cats. A fully matured male cat of this species can weigh up to five pounds, the females only weighing up to three. This cat is distinguished by the tawny-brown coat, marked by dark brown or black stripes and spots. The Black-Footed Cat is named so for the dark soles of his feet.

The Black-Footed Cat is a truly rare species, located only in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Southern Angola. This cat primarily inhabits arid desert regions and brushland. The main threats to this cat are deforestation and pest control. There is not an active trade in this cat's fur.

Exotic cats require a great deal of specialized care and have different needs than domesticated cats. A veterinarian willing and able to treat exotic cats should be consulted in the proper care for the Black-Footed Cat. Only a veterinarian specially trained in the care of exotic cats will know the cat's special dietary and medication needs, including anesthesia. Issues such as spaying/neutering and declawing the cat should be discussed with a veterinarian.

Some studies indicate that the Black-Footed Cat develops more quickly than domesticated cats, but that the young cubs become independent later. These cats reach sexual maturity as late as 20 months of age. The gestation period for these cats is usually between 65 and 70 days. Black-Footed Cat litters typically consist of one to three cubs. The cubs can be considered independent at four months of age.