Under the Panthera genus, the jaguar cat is officially the third biggest feline. It is characterized by its spotted fur which covers its leopard-like body. This spotted cat, however is much larger and more sturdy than the leopard. The jaguar cat is very similar in nature to the tiger in terms of its behavior and preferred habitat. This cat lives primarily in dense rainforests, however, it can also be located in open terrain and other forested areas as well. The jaguar cat is also known to be inclined to swim, much like the tiger.
Physically this cat has a well-muscled physique that is very compact and which will generally range from 124 pounds to 211 pounds in total weight. The males of this species can become as large as 350 pounds. Conversely, a female jaguar cat that is on the smaller side can weigh as little as 70 pounds. Lengthwise the jaguar cat will generally range between 3.9 feet and 6.4 feet. It is skilled in both swimming and climbing due to the stocky structure of its limbs.
The jaguar cat is at the very top of the food chain which makes it an apex predator. Ecologically, it helps to control the number of preys that might upset the balance of the ecosystem in the wild. Due to its position, the jaguar cat is called a keystone species. Compared to other animals in the wild this cat is sympatric with cougars, with whom it shares overlapping territories. Cougars, however, are smaller in size and will generally target smaller preys, especially when hunting in landscapes that have been altered by humans.
The jaguar cat has been assigned a conservation status of near threatened and the numbers of this animal are seeing rapid drops. This classification suggests that the jaguar cat is near extinction, should the proper measures for conservation not be taken.