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{{Infobox type
{{Infobox type
|type=creature
|type=creature
|stats={{stats|W=80|U=2|B=11|R=19|G=49|WU=3|GW=14|BG=1|RG=2|A=5|M=4}}
|stats={{stats|W=117|U=7|B=15|R=23|G=67|WU=6|BR=2|RG=5|GW=21|WB=3|BG=1|RW=3|M=17|A=7}}
{{stats|Cat creation|W=22|R=1|G=7|WU=2|GW=1|RW=1|M=5|state=collapsed}}
as of ''[[Murders at Karlov Manor]]''
|beeble=2
|beeble_ref=<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/180696737343/|title=I'm curious as to where cats are on the Beeble scale.|December 1, 2018}}</ref>
}}
}}
{{TOCright}}
{{TOCright}}
'''Cats''' are carnivorous mammals. In ''Magic'', the term refers to both regular cats, as well as other feline creatures (some endowed with sapience), such as lions and tigers.<ref name="Cats">{{DailyRef|making-magic/cats-2017-08-07|Cats|[[Mark Rosewater]]|August 7, 2017}}</ref> The first creature to bear the type was <c>Cat Warriors</c> in ''[[Legends]]'' (though the <c>Savannah Lions</c> from ''[[Alpha]]'' was later issued errata to become a Cat). The first card with the subtype Cat without a second subtype was <c>Canyon Wildcat</c> from ''[[Tempest]].<ref name="Cats"/>  
'''Cat''' is a [[creature type]] used for felines. In ''Magic'', the term refers to both regular cats and other feline creatures (some endowed with sapience), such as lions and tigers.<ref name="Cats">{{DailyRef|making-magic/cats-2017-08-07|Cats|[[Mark Rosewater]]|August 7, 2017}}</ref> The first creature to bear the type was <c>Cat Warriors</c> in ''[[Legends]]'' (though the <c>Savannah Lions</c> from ''[[Alpha]]'' was later issued errata to become a Cat). The first card with the subtype Cat without a second subtype was <c>Canyon Wildcat</c> from ''[[Tempest]].<ref name="Cats"/>  


Cats come in all [[colors]], but are primarily found in [[green]] and [[white]].<ref>{{DailyRef|card-preview/surprise-cats-2017-08-07|Surprise Cats|Quinn Murphy|August 7, 2017}}</ref>  
Cats come in all [[colors]], but are primarily found in [[green]] and [[white]].<ref>{{DailyRef|card-preview/surprise-cats-2017-08-07|Surprise Cats|Quinn Murphy|August 7, 2017}}</ref>


==Catfolk==
==Catfolk==
===Cat Warriors===
===Cat Warriors===
<c>Cat warriors</c> are feline humanoids found throughout [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]], primarily on the continent of [[Jamuraa]]. There are various different strains of cat warriors, some resembling tigers, others leopards or jaguars, and yet others cougars. The cat warriors have kept a relatively low profile throughout Dominaria's history, but they date back at least as far as the era of the [[Thran Empire]].
<c>Cat warriors</c> are feline humanoids found throughout [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]], primarily on the continent of [[Jamuraa]]. There are various strains of cat warriors, some resembling tigers, others leopards or jaguars, and yet others cougars. The cat warriors have kept a relatively low profile throughout Dominaria's history, but they date back at least as far as the era of the [[Thran Empire]].


There are various tribes of cat warriors. The '''Chitr’in''' were visited by [[Gerrard|Gerrard Capashen]] and [[Mirri]] once.<ref name="Rath and Storm">[[Peter Archer]] (ed.) ''[[Rath and Storm]]'' anthology. [[Wizards of the Coast]].</ref> The [[Efrava]]ns, [[Hooraree]], [[Khyyiani]], and [[Sulaki]] live in the [[Sukurvian Desert]]. After the [[Phyrexian Invasion of Dominaria]] caused the destruction of the cat warriors' Jamuraan homelands, their race was scattered across Dominaria.
There are various tribes of cat warriors. The '''Chitr’in''' were visited by [[Gerrard|Gerrard Capashen]] and [[Mirri]] once.<ref name="Rath and Storm">[[Peter Archer]] (ed.) ''[[Rath and Storm]]'' anthology. [[Wizards of the Coast]].</ref> The [[Efrava]]ns, [[Hooraree]], [[Khyyiani]], and [[Sulaki]] live in the [[Sukurvian Desert]]. After the [[Phyrexian Invasion of Dominaria]] destroyed the cat warriors' Jamuraan homelands, their race was scattered across Dominaria.


The panther warriors, nacatl, and leonin, and perhaps nishoba as well, might be considered to belong to the same race as other cat warriors, but their cultures are distinct enough to set them apart.
The panther warriors, nacatl, leonin, and perhaps nishoba as well, might be considered to belong to the same race as other cat warriors, but their cultures are distinct enough to set them apart.


Dominarian catfolk as a whole appear to have become extinct, with the exception of the panther warriors of [[Free Urborg]].
Dominarian catfolk, as a whole, appear to have become extinct, except for the panther warriors of [[Free Urborg]].


====Panther Warriors====
====Panther Warriors====
The '''panther warriors''' are exiles of the cat warrior nations, many of whom had taken up residence in [[Urborg]]. They sometimes serve dark forces but are usually neutral in their world view. During the [[Mirage Wars]], they were led by [[Purraj]], an ally of [[Kaervek]], who came with him to Jamuraa from Urborg and possibly perished there.
The '''panther warriors''' are exiles of the cat warrior nations, many of whom had taken up residence in [[Urborg]]. They sometimes serve dark forces but are usually neutral in their worldview. During the [[Mirage Wars]], they were led by [[Purraj]], an ally of [[Kaervek]], who came with him to Jamuraa from Urborg and possibly perished there.


Long after the demise of Lord [[Windgrace]], his followers still defended Urborg by sabotaging the [[Cabal]]'s artifacts.<ref><c>Windgrace Acolyte</c></ref> Organized in Free Urborg, they were led by [[Marivel]].
Long after the demise of Lord [[Windgrace]], his followers still defended Urborg by sabotaging the [[Cabal]]'s artifacts.<ref><c>Windgrace Acolyte</c></ref> Organized in Free Urborg, they were led by [[Marivel]].
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===Leonin===
===Leonin===
'''Leonin''' are a form of anthropomorphic lion found on multiple planes. They have a strong connection to [[white]] mana.
'''Leonin''' are a form of anthropomorphic lion found on multiple planes. They have a strong connection to [[white]] mana.
====Mirrodin Leonin====
====Mirrodin Leonin====
The Leonin of [[Mirrodin (plane)|Mirrodin]] dwelled in the [[Razor Fields]], their capital being [[Taj-Nar]], the <c>Ancient Den</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/style-guide-leonin-2004-01-19|Style Guide - Leonin|[[Magic Arcana]]|January 19, 2004}}</ref> Their culture is highly honor-based and religious, worshipping the white sun. Clerics of the suns have to survive a year in the Razor Fields before they are regarded as full '''abunas''' ([[cleric]]s<ref>{{DailyRef|ask-wizards-september-2004-2004-09-01|Ask Wizards - September, 2004|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|September, 2004}}</ref>) that are allowed to lead other Leonin in religious ceremonies, particulary the Sunroar. As with all creatures from Mirrodin, they have partially metallic features. The Leonin shared a bond with the pterons, flying reptiles, and specialized skyhunters used them as mounts.
The Leonin of [[Mirrodin (plane)|Mirrodin]] dwelled in the [[Razor Fields]], their capital being [[Taj-Nar]], the <c>Ancient Den</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/style-guide-leonin-2004-01-19|Style Guide - Leonin|[[Magic Arcana]]|January 19, 2004}}</ref> Their culture is highly honor-based and religious, worshipping the white sun. Clerics of the suns have to survive a year in the Razor Fields before they are regarded as full '''abunas''' ([[cleric]]s<ref>{{DailyRef|ask-wizards-september-2004-2004-09-01|Ask Wizards - September 2004|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|September 2004}}</ref>) that are allowed to lead other Leonin in religious ceremonies, particularly the Sunroar. As with all creatures from Mirrodin, they have partially metallic features. The Leonin shared a bond with the pterons, flying reptiles, and specialized skyhunters used them as mounts. Those that hunted on the ground were known as "shikari."<ref name="OTT">{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/you-down-o-t-t-2010-10-26|You Down with O-T-T?|[[Doug Beyer]]|October 26, 2010|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023082415/https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/you-down-o-t-t-2010-10-26|archivedate=October 23, 2021}}</ref> Leonin weaponsmiths were known as "edgewrights," a term borrowed by the [[Auriok]].<ref name="Three">{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/threes-craft-2010-10-20|Three's a Craft|[[Doug Beyer]]|October 20, 2010|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429201503/https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/threes-craft-2010-10-20|archivedate=April 29, 2021}}</ref>


After [[Memnarch]] was defeated and [[Karn]], Mirrodin's creator, sent those leonin abducted from other planes back to where they had come from, a schism ran through the remaining ones. One group supported a new ''kha'' named Kemba, calling themselves the kha-tal. The other, formerly the Obu-tal, called for revolution against the old societal structures, believing that they did not apply to the changed world.<ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/nonhuman-cultures-mirrodin-2010-12-08|The Nonhuman cultures of Mirrodin|[[Doug Beyer]]|December 8, 2010}}</ref>  
After [[Memnarch]] was defeated and [[Karn]], Mirrodin's creator, sent those leonin abducted from other planes back to where they had come from, a schism ran through the remaining ones. One group supported a new ''kha'' named Kemba, calling themselves the kha-tal. The other, formerly the Obu-tal, called for a revolution against the old societal structures, believing that they did not apply to the changing world.<ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/nonhuman-cultures-mirrodin-2010-12-08|The Nonhuman cultures of Mirrodin|[[Doug Beyer]]|December 8, 2010}}</ref>  


Like all inhabitants of Mirrodin, the leonin were drawn to that world from another plane. Though never explicitly stated, it is possible that they came from [[Alara]]; both the nacatl and the leonin call their leader the ''kha'', and after Alara reformed, some Nacatl began calling themselves Leonin.
Like all inhabitants of Mirrodin, the leonin were drawn to that world from another plane. Though never explicitly stated, it is possible that they came from [[Alara]]; both the nacatl and the leonin call their leader the ''kha'', and after Alara reformed, some Nacatl began calling themselves Leonin.


====Nacatl====
====Nacatl====
The '''nacatl''' are a race of leonin from the shard of [[Naya]] (originally part of [[Alara]]). The males look very similar to the leonin of Mirrodin (sans metal plating) and have light fur, while the females lack manes. Naya's leonin display a bit more physiological variety than Mirrodin's leonin; Nacatl have coats like tigers, jaguars, ocelots, etc., whereas Mirrodin leonin tend to stick with a more strict lion look.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/secrets-cat-people-2008-04-17|The Secrets of the Cat People!|[[Magic Arcana]]|April 17, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/insights-inbox-2008-12-17|Insights from the Inbox|[[Doug Beyer]]|December 17, 2008}}</ref>
The '''nacatl''' are a race of leonin from the shard of [[Naya]] (originally part of [[Alara]]). The males look very similar to the leonin of Mirrodin (sans metal plating) and have light fur, while the females lack manes. Naya's leonin display more physiological variety than Mirrodin's leonin; Nacatl have coats like tigers, jaguars, ocelots, and others, ranging from mottled-jaguar to silver-gray to completely black.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/secrets-cat-people-2008-04-17|The Secrets of the Cat People!|[[Magic Arcana]]|April 17, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/insights-inbox-2008-12-17|Insights from the Inbox|[[Doug Beyer]]|December 17, 2008}}</ref><ref name="AlaraGuide">[[Doug Beyer]] & [[Jenna Helland]] (2008). ''[[A Planeswalker's Guide to Alara]]'', [[Wizards of the Coast]]. ISBN-13 978-0786951246</ref>
 
The cat-people used to dominate Naya, with the nacatl's Empire of the Clouds operating an extensive system of roads, bridges, and aqueducts across the plane {{-}} all constructed out of rocks and timbers so finely cut that mortar was unnecessary.<ref name="AlaraGuide"/> During the years of the empire, the Nacatl didn’t have a spiritual culture. The Nacatl embraced a code of ethics called the [[Coil]] in which each was free to pursue happiness however they wanted as long as they didn't hurt another Nacatl. A rebellious faction known as the ''Claws of [[Marisi]]'' believed they had grown weak, and that they should return to their true cat nature. Their empire crumbled and the nacatl were reduced to isolated tribes.<ref name="Shakers">{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/movers-and-shakers-naya-2008-11-05|The Movers and Shakers of Naya|[[Doug Beyer]]|November 5, 2008}}</ref> By the time of the Conflux, the nacatl were split into at least two cultural groups: the peaceful [[Cloud Nacatl]], who inhabited the mountain ruins of their ancestors, and the violent [[Wild Nacatl]] and Claws of Marisi, who lived in the lowland jungles; the two groups had nothing but contempt for each other. ''Scratchforms'' is the writing system employed by the nacatl. Among Wild Nacatl, scratchforms are predominantly used by [[shaman]]s. The most important text set in scratchforms was the Coil.<ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/running-wild-2008-09-09|Running Wild|[[Jenna Helland]]|September 10, 2008}}</ref>
 
Most Nacatl have returned to wandering the cloud jungles and grow more feral with each generation.<ref name="AlaraGuide"/> Many have returned to a mainly nocturnal existence, sleeping in low branches during the day and doing most of their hunting in the early evening. Starstalkers are the most skilled hunters of the Wild Nacatl and are highly respected for their physical prowess. Many nomadic tribes camp in the ruins of their former civilization. Because of fewer resources in the high jungles, the Nacatl have begun wandering into the lower elevations, where they fight both elves and humans over territory.
 
The Nacatl social unit is the pride.<ref name="AlaraGuide"/> Among the Cloud Nacatl, prides are longstanding and complex familial structures with great histories and bloodlines. The Wild Nacatl, however, have prides that are looser and more changeable. Each pride has a leader, though individuals within the pride generally have the freedom to do as they wish. Leadership and status are determined through ferocity and survival rather than blood ties.


The cat-people used to dominate Naya, but a rebellious faction led by [[Marisi]] believed they had grown weak, and that they should return to their true cat-nature. Their empire crumbled and the nacatl were reduced to isolated tribes. By the time of the Conflux, the nacatl were split into at least two cultural groups: the peaceful [[Cloud Nacatl]], who inhabited the mountain ruins of their ancestors, and the violent [[Wild Nacatl]] or ''Claws of Marisi'', who lived in the lowland jungles; the two groups had nothing but contempt for each other. ''Scratchforms'' is the writing system employed by the nacatl. Among Wild Nacatl scratchforms are predominantly used by [[shaman]]s. The most important text set in scratchforms was the [[Coil]].
While stonework is used in the construction of roads and large buildings, the Nacatl prefer to live in drays: small, stone-hewn dens built around tree trunks and in cliff faces.<ref name="AlaraGuide"/> The Nacatl-like baskets and reed weaving, decorate their drays with remnants of their warrior past, like old shields, weapons, and exquisite tusk carvings. Celebration and wealth are highly prized among the Nacatl.


The '''savage nacatl''' are a subgroup of which very little is known, save that they disdain the use of weapons and armor. Savage nacatl are larger and more muscular than other cat-people, with no manes, gray fur, and black tiger-like stripes. Their relation to other nacatl is unknown.
The '''savage nacatl''' are a subgroup of which very little is known, save that they disdain the use of weapons and armor. Savage nacatl are larger and more muscular than other cat-people, with no manes, gray fur, and black tiger-like stripes. Their relation to other nacatl is unknown.


After the Conflux, when Alara was made whole once more, some nacatl migrated to the civilized lands of [[Bant]] and began integrating into the city-dwelling culture. The Bant cat-people, who adapted to the chivalrous code of knights and soldiers, simply called themselves leonin. The Nayan pride of the '''Sunstrikers''' is loyal to [[Ajani]]. It's their sworn duty to keep his lands safe.<ref>{{DailyRef|magic-story/stonekiller-part-2-2012-08-13|The Stonekiller, Part 2|[[Jenna Helland]]|August 15, 2012}}</ref>
After the Conflux, when Alara was made whole once more, some nacatl migrated to the civilized lands of [[Bant]] and began integrating into the city-dwelling culture. The Bant cat-people, who adapted to the chivalrous code of knights and soldiers, simply called themselves leonin. The Nayan pride of the '''Sunstrikers''' is loyal to [[Ajani]]. It's their sworn duty to keep his and their lands safe.<ref>{{DailyRef|magic-story/stonekiller-part-2-2012-08-13|The Stonekiller, Part 2|[[Jenna Helland]]|August 15, 2012}}</ref>


Nacatl means 'Meat' in Nahuatl, which is a Mesoamerican language notably used by the Aztecs.
Nacatl means 'Meat' in Nahuatl, which is a Mesoamerican language notably used by the Aztecs.


====Theros Leonin====
====Theros Leonin====
Unlike the proud leonin of other planes, [[Theros (plane)|Theros]]' leonin are disgraced outcasts due to their previous support of the [[Archon]] [[Agnomakhos]], who tyrannised [[Meletis]] and surrounding lands. These leonin make a conscious effort to seperate themselves from humanity and the other races, down to not worshipping the main gods of Theros, though some do still occasionally honor [[Heliod]] and [[Nylea]].<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/thats-all-catfolks-2014-03-19-0|That's All Catfolks|[[Mike McArtor]]|March 19, 2014}}</ref>
Unlike the proud leonin of other planes, [[Theros (plane)|Theros]]' leonin are disgraced outcasts due to their previous support of the [[Archon]] [[Agnomakhos]], who tyrannized [[Meletis]] and surrounding lands. These leonin make a conscious effort to separate themselves from humanity and the other races, down to not worshipping the main gods of Theros, though some do still occasionally honor [[Heliod]] and [[Nylea]].<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/thats-all-catfolks-2014-03-19-0|That's All Catfolks|[[Mike McArtor]]|March 19, 2014}}</ref> Most live in the golden plain of [[Oreskos]].<ref name="D&D Theros Guide">Wizards RPG Team (2020), ''[[D&D Mythic Odysseys of Theros]]'', [[Wizards of the Coast]]</ref> Each year, on the day of the first full moon after the autumn equinox, matriarchs from all the leonin prides gather at Tethmos to select a monarch, who acts as a representative of the pride in the wider world.
 
====Capennan leonin====
On [[Capenna]], the leonin are mostly associated with the [[Cabaretti]] crime family, although they are also present in the [[Brokers]]. Uniquely they more closely resemble domestic cats and caracals rather than lions.
 
===Malamet===
The '''Malamet''' are jaguarfolk living in the [[Ixalan (plane)#The Caverns|underground caverns]] of [[Ixalan (plane)|Ixalan]].<ref name="LCI, Episode 3">{{DailyRef|magic-story/the-lost-caverns-of-ixalan-episode-3|The Lost Caverns of Ixalan - Episode 3|[[Valerie Valdes]]|October 20, 2023}}</ref> They are taller and broader than the plane's [[vampire]]s and have longer fangs. They are hearty, clever, and wise but suspicious, territorial, and ruthless.<ref name="Guide 3">{{DailyRef|feature/planeswalkers-guide-to-the-lost-caverns-of-ixalan|Planeswalker's Guide to the Lost Caverns of Ixalan|[[Miguel Lopez]]|November 10, 2023}}</ref> An ancient people, the Malamet's customs are set, their communication rigid and formal.<ref name="Discord">{{WebRef|url=https://discord.com/channels/750513920938082404/1171953887830360107/1171954056944681001|title=Lost Caverns of Ixalan Worldbuilding Q&A|author=[[Ovidio Cartagena]]|date=November 8, 2023|publisher=Discord|archiveurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/mtgvorthos/comments/17r5s5z/lci_mtg_discord_qa_worldbuilding_the_lost_caverns/|archivedate=November 8, 2023}}</ref>
 
According to their histories, the Malamet fought alongside the [[human]]s and [[merfolk]] in the Night War against the [[Coin Empire]] and the followers of [[Aclazotz]].<ref name="Guide 3"/> After their shared victory, the Malamet journeyed to the surface, but returned to the caverns after their empires were defeated by the nascent [[Sun Empire]]. Now with very few living members remaining, they hope to one day return to the surface but generally recognize that they exist in the twilight of their culture.<ref name="Podcast 49">{{WebRef|url=https://share.transistor.fm/s/3c6c5987|title=The Lost Caverns of Ixalan #49: The Origins of Ixalan, Part 2|work=The Magic Story Podcast|author=[[Harless Snyder]], [[Natalie Kreider]], [[Miguel Lopez]], and [[Ovidio Cartagena]]|date=December 19, 2023}}</ref>


===Nishoba===
A fundamentally vain people, in addition to shaping their buildings after their fangs, the Malamet language is recorded on stele in glyphs based on the spot markings on their fur.<ref name="Discord"/><ref name="Guide 3"/> Malamet textiles, carvings, clothing, armor, weapons, icons of status, and so on all bear meaningful glyphs, phrases, and names; mastery over the vast Malamet alphabet is a desirable quality among the Malamet, as well as one's aptitude in combining glyphs to create the most information-dense poetics one can. Malamet magic, as well, is derived from their glyphs: the will, wisdom, stories, and very forms of their ancestors are written into these glyphs and can be summoned to aid them in times of need.<ref name="Podcast 49"/>
[[Ogre]]-sized cat-people blending the features of snow leopards and smilodons, '''nishobas''' lived as marauders in cold regions. Nishobas are known to have lived in [[Terisiare]] and [[Otaria]],<ref name="Cats"/> but may have become extinct after the end of the [[Phyrexian Invasion of Dominaria]].


===Rakshasa===
Malamet society is grouped into castes known as cadres, and turmoil between cadre affiliations has on rare occasions fomented into war.<ref name="Guide 3"/> Malamet warriors wear intricate jade armor, wielding bows, serrated obsidian blades, and polearms.<ref name="LCI, Episode 3"/> Their nobility and priesthood wear elaborate headdresses and collars. They worship their leader as a god and bare their throats deferentially when speaking to him. Malamet mythweavers can ascertain someone's intentions by projecting a magic image of their desires. Mythweavers and glyphscribes are known to pilgrimage to the ghost city of Chama Koj to learn its history.


Endemic to [[Tarkir]], these anthropomorphic cats are also [[demon]]s.<ref name="Cats"/> Tiger-like in appearance, they are associated with the [[Sultai Brood]], the members of the brood having made demonic contracts with them to gain power. The wield potent dark magic that makes them feared. A single Rakshasa can lay waste to swaths of land or reduce an army to dust. They summon horrors and abominations that swallow cities and devour legions.
The Malamet likely drew inspiration from the [[Wikipedia:Aztecs|Aztec]] [[Wikipedia:Jaguar warrior|Jaguar warriors]]. Some Malamet have [[Wikipedia:Maya peoples|Maya]] names, and their cities suspended by bridges may draw inspiration from the raised causeways of [[Wikipedia:Xingu peoples|Xingu]] cities.


In the past, [[Tasigur]], khan of the Sultai, offended the rakshasa, who withdrew their support from him. Having been left vulnerable to the renewed dragon attacks, Tasigur made a pact with [[Silumgar]], leading him to a meeting with the other khans. Afterwards, the rakshasa renewed their pacts, but this time with Silumgar. The dragonlord fears that the rakshasa will eventually turn against him, but knows that their magic is too useful for him.<ref>{{DailyRef|uncharted-realms/planeswalkers-guide-dragons-tarkir-part-1-2015-03-11|Planeswalker's Guide to Dragons of Tarkir, Part 1|The Magic Creative Team|March 11, 2015}}</ref>
===Nishoba===
[[Ogre]]-sized cat-people blending the features of snow leopards and smilodons with some wolflike features, '''nishobas''' lived as marauders in cold regions. Nishobas are known to have lived on the continents of [[Terisiare]] and [[Otaria]] on [[Dominaria]].<ref name="Cats"/> The name ''nishoba'' is said to originate from a [[Wikipedia:Native Americans in the United States|Native American]] word meaning "wolf," though the original word and language are unknown.<ref>{{WebRef|url=http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/lexicon-archive-2002-01-15|title=The Lexicon Archive|author=[[Wizards of the Coast]]|date=January 15, 2002|publisher=[[Wizards of the Coast]]|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419184602/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/lexicon-archive-2002-01-15|archivedate=April 19, 2017}}</ref>


==Regular cats==
==Regular cats==
Examples of regular cats are:
Nearly every real-world species of cat has been printed with the cat type, including:
* <c>Black Cat</c>
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
* <c>Fleetfoot Panther</c>
*{{card|Trained Caracal|title=Caracals}}
* <c>Lynx</c>
*{{Card|Trained Cheetah|title=Cheetahs}}
* <c>Mist Leopard</c>
*{{Card|Raging Cougar|title=Cougars}}/{{card|Scarred Puma|title=Pumas}}
* <c>Mtenda Lion</c>
*{{card|Sanctuary Cat|title=House cats}}
* <c>Penumbra Bobcat</c>
*{{Card|Pouncing Jaguar|title=Jaguars}}
* <c>Pouncing Jaguar</c>
*{{Card|Mist Leopard|title=Leopards}}
* <c>Raging Cougar</c>
*{{Card|Mtenda Lion|title=Lions}}
* <c>Sabertooth Alley Cat</c>
*{{Card|Lynx|title=Lynxes}}/{{Card|Penumbra Bobcat|title=Bobcats}}
* <c>Sabretooth Tiger</c>
*{{Card|Ocelot Pride|title=Ocelots}}
* <c>Sanctuary Cat</c>
*{{Card|Fleetfoot Panther|title=Panters}}
* <c>Scarred Puma</c>
*{{Card|Sabretooth Tiger|title=Saber-toothed cats}}
* <c>Trained Caracal</c>
*{{Card|Maned Serval|title=Servals}}
* <c>Trained Cheetah</c>
*{{Card|Zodiac Tiger|title=Tigers}}
* <c>Uktabi Wildcats</c>
*{{Card|Uktabi Wildcats|title=Wildcats}}
* <c>Zodiac Tiger</c>
}}


===Domestic Cats===
===Domestic cats===
Domestic cats had been rarely featured in ''Magic'', until recently. When they are, they are often sacred creaures associated with [[white]] mana.
Domestic cats had been rarely featured in ''Magic'', until ''[[Amonkhet]]''. When they are, they are often sacred creatures associated with [[white]] mana, or [[black]] familiars of [[witch]]es.


====Amonkhet====
====Amonkhet====
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====Innistrad====
====Innistrad====
<c>Sanctuary Cat</c>s patrol churches in order to root [[devil]]s out.
{{Card|Sanctuary Cat|title=Sanctuary Cats}} patrol churches in order to root [[devil]]s out.


====Ravnica====
====Ravnica====
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====Eldraine====
====Eldraine====
Black cats in Eldraine appear near the <c>Cauldron Of Eternity</c> as a <c>Cauldron Familiar</c>, and take advantage of its resurrection powers.
Black cats in Eldraine appear near the <c>The Cauldron of Eternity</c> as a <c>Cauldron Familiar</c>, and take advantage of its resurrection powers.


==Other cats==
==Other cats==
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===Felidars===
===Felidars===
The [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]] continent of [[Sejiri]] is home to felidars, ferocious horned cat [[beast]]s. Some [[human]] [[knight]]s are able to <c title="tame them">Kabira Vindicator</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/riding-felidar-2010-04-22|Riding the Felidar|[[Magic Arcana]]|April 22, 2010}}</ref> Felidars that make it through their first year of life can easily live to see a hundred years more. Felidars are also found on [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]], where they are kept as <c title="guard beasts">Felidar Guardian</c>.
The [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]] continent of [[Sejiri]] is home to felidars, ferocious horned cat [[beast]]s. Some [[human]] [[knight]]s can <c title="tame them">Kabira Vindicator</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/riding-felidar-2010-04-22|Riding the Felidar|[[Magic Arcana]]|April 22, 2010}}</ref> Felidars that make it through their first year of life can easily live to see a hundred years more. Certain felidars are believed to have become isolated from the [[skyclave]]s, where over time they became the monstrous <c title="shadowcats">Skyclave Shadowcat</c> that now inhabit them.
 
Felidars are also found on [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]], where they are kept as <c title="guard beasts">Felidar Guardian</c>, and on [[Ikoria]].<ref><c>Frondland Felidar</c></ref> Felidars are also found on [[Ravnica]], where they are primarily associated with the [[Azorius Senate|Azorius Guild]] where they form strong bonds with a single individual, sometimes a criminal, allowing them to see through their eyes and find them anywhere on the plane. Some Ravnican Felidars are winged.<ref>[[D&D Guildmasters' Guide to Ravnica]]</ref> Winged Felidars with access to magic serve as bonded mounts for the plane's [[Archon]]s.<ref>{{YouTubeRef|eOjpZvVDc78|Dragon Talk: LYSK Monsters of Ravnica|channel=[[Dungeons & Dragons]]|date=November 13, 2018}}</ref>


Felidars on [[Ravnica]] are primarily associated with the [[Azorius Senate|Azorius Guild]] where they form strong bonds with a single individual, sometimes a criminal, allowing them to see through their eyes and find them anywhere on the plane. Some Ravnican Felidar are winged.<ref>[[D&D Guildmasters' Guide to Ravnica]]</ref>
Felidars can also be found on [[Thunder Junction]], although it is unknown if they are endemic.


===Firecats===
===Firecats===
'''Firecats''' are [[elemental]] cats native to the [[Pardic Mountains]] of Otaria. As their name suggests, their bodies are permanently ablaze. Their extinguished furs were often used as clothing by the Pardic barbarians.
'''Firecats''' are [[elemental]] cats native to the [[Pardic Mountains]] of Otaria. As their name suggests, their bodies are permanently ablaze. Their extinguished furs were often used as clothing by the Pardic barbarians.
===Ikorian Cats===
On [[Ikoria]], cats are one of the dominant [[Wikipedia:clade|clades]] and in particular oversee [[Savai]]. They are elegant but sadistic predators that toy with their prey. Like all life on Ikoria, they are [[mutant]]s, and several have wings, which [[Vivien Reid]] remarks as not being seen as unusual there.<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/planeswalkers-guide-ikoria-2020-04-02|Planeswalker's Guide to Ikoria|[[Chris Mooney]]|April 2, 2020}}</ref> Non-hybridized Ikorian cats range from small, tusked creatures the size of housecats to winged panthers the size of a horse.<ref name="Visual Guide">[[Jay Annelli]] (2022). ''[[Magic: The Gathering - The Visual Guide]]'', [[Wikipedia:DK (publisher)|DK]]. ISBN-13 978-0744061055.</ref>
====Nightcats====
A variety of cats that are native to [[Indatha]] as opposed to Savai. They glow.


===Jhovalls===
===Jhovalls===
'''Jhovalls''' are enormous cats native to [[Mercadia]]. They are fierce in combat and are large and strong enough to be used as mounts for fully-armored warriors, although training to ride the beasts takes many years of practice. <c>Jhovall rider</c>s therefore make up the elite corps of both the Mercadian and [[Cho-Arrim]] armies.
'''Jhovalls''' are enormous cats native to [[Mercadia]]. They are fierce in combat and are large and strong enough to be used as mounts for fully armored warriors, although training to ride the beasts takes many years of practice. <c>Jhovall rider</c>s, therefore, make up the elite corps of both the Mercadian and [[Cho-Arrim]] armies.


===Leotau===
===Leotau===
Leotau are semi-intelligent mounts employed by the [[Inner Three]] nations of [[Bant]], distantly related to the leonin of Naya. They are unique in that they are hooved animals; they have the heads and bodies of lions, but possess the legs of horse or bull. There are three varieties found in the savannahs of Bant: the orisil, the mherva and the grohm.
Leotau (LEE-oh-tau<ref name="Angel">{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/angels-eye-view-bant-2008-10-08|An Angel's Eye View of Bant|Doug Beyer|October 8, 2008}}</ref>) are semi-intelligent mounts employed by the [[Inner Three]] nations of [[Bant]], distantly related to the leonin of Naya.<ref name="AlaraGuide">[[Doug Beyer]] & [[Jenna Helland]] (2008). ''[[A Planeswalker's Guide to Alara]]'', [[Wizards of the Coast]]. ISBN-13 978-0786951246</ref> They are unique in that they are hooved animals; they have the heads and bodies of lions but possess the legs of horses or bulls. Leotau prefer the shard's inland savannahs and have a notorious dislike of the ocean and coastal areas. Neither Jhess nor Valeron use the leotau for this reason. There are three distinct leotau subspecies: the white-coated orisil favored by the Blessed caste; the golden, fleet-footed mherva; and the large, calico/dappled grohm.


Undead variants of these species are present in [[Grixis]].
Undead variants of these species are present in [[Grixis]].
Line 113: Line 140:


===Serpopards===
===Serpopards===
Based on an [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serpopard|an actual mythological creature], serpopards are [[snake]] cats endemic to [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]]. They serve the god [[Rhonas]].
Based on an [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serpopard actual mythological creature], serpopards are [[snake]] cats endemic to [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]]. They serve the god [[Rhonas]].
 
===Stonework Pumas===
The ancient product of an unknown [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikari]] runesculptor or sculptors, stonework pumas have long been the reliable choice of many adventuring parties. There are known to be less than a hundred such artifact creatures in existence, and each one has been named after its famous exploits.<ref name="Cuisine">{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/ally-cuisine-2009-11-04|Ally Cuisine|[[Doug Beyer]]|November 4, 2009}}</ref>
 
===Tora===
The '''Tora''' (TOH-ra) of [[Kamigawa]] are tigers.<ref name="Glossary 2">{{DailyRef|kamigawa-glossary-part-2-2005-01-24|A Kamigawa Glossary, Part 2|[[Magic Arcana]]|January 24, 2005}}</ref>


===Urborg Panthers===
===Urborg Panthers===
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===Yalomar Cats===
===Yalomar Cats===
'''Yalomar cats''' were powerful felines native to the region of [[Khone]] on [[Corondor]].<ref>''[[Dakkon Blackblade (comic)]]''</ref> One cat was used in training the [[Numbered Ones]] in the [[Khone#Valley of Sacrifice|Valley of Sacrifice]]. When the Numbered Ones managed to destroy it with magic, the resulting blast blinded the [[Khonian]] midwives and killed all but one of the Numbered Ones, leaving only [[Gydolien Mor]] alive.
'''Yalomar cats''' were powerful felines native to the region of [[Khone]] on [[Corondor]].<ref>''[[Dakkon Blackblade (comic)]]''</ref> One cat was used in training the [[Numbered Ones]] in the [[Khone#Valley of Sacrifice|Valley of Sacrifice]]. When the Numbered Ones managed to destroy it with magic, the resulting blast blinded the [[Khonian]] midwives and killed all but one of the Numbered Ones, leaving only [[Gydolien Mor]] alive.
===Zheng===
===Zheng===
The '''<c title="Zheng">Ferocious Zheng</c>''' are cat [[beast]]s from the [[Plane of Mountains and Seas]]. They are known for their glowing horn and stone-rattling roar, and are the fiercest predators in the forest.
The '''<c title="Zheng">Ferocious Zheng</c>''' are cat [[beast]]s from [[Shenmeng]]. They are known for their glowing horn and stone-rattling roar and are the fiercest predators in the forest.


==Notable Cats==
==Notable Cats==
====House cats====
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
* [[List of secondary characters#Tolvada|Janah]], [[Kaya]]'s cat.
'''Alara'''
;Nacatl
*[[Ajani Goldmane]]
*[[Jazal Goldmane]]
*[[Marisi]]
*[[Nazahn]]
*[[Nira]]
*[[Runadi]]


====Cat Warriors====
'''Capenna'''
* [[Jedit Ojanen]]
*[[Denry Klin]]
* [[Kyyrao Grenmw]]
*[[Jetmir]]
* [[Mirri]]
*[[Kitt]]
*[[Kros]]
*[[List of secondary characters#Capenna|Phabine]]
*[[Rigo]]


====Panther Warriors====
'''Dominaria'''
* [[Windgrace]]
;Cat Warriors
* [[Purraj]]
*[[Jedit Ojanen]]
*[[Kyyrao Grenmw]]
*[[Mirri]]
*[[Shikka]]
*[[Zar Ojanen]]
 
;Nekoru
*[[Wasitora]]
 
;Panther Warriors
*[[Windgrace]]
*[[Purraj]]
*[[Sayrah]]
 
;Others
*[[Jareth]]
*[[List of secondary characters/Dominaria|Laena]]
 
'''Ikoria'''
*[[Lurrus]]
*[[Silvar]]
*[[Kaheera]]
*[[Leori]]
*[[Snapdax]]
*[[Nethroi]]
*[[Vadrok]]
 
'''Ixalan'''
*[[Okinec Ahau]]
 
'''Mirrodin/New Phyrexia'''
;Leonin
*[[Kemba]]
*[[Raksha]]
*Ranya
*Ushanti
 
'''[[Shandalar]]'''
*[[Pip]]
 
'''Theros'''
*[[Brimaz]]
*[[Seza]]
 
'''Tovalda'''
*[[List of secondary characters#Tolvada|Janah]], [[Kaya]]'s cat.


====Leonin====
'''Zendikar'''
* [[Raksha]]
*[[Tawny]]
* Ushanti
* <c>Kemba, Kha Regent</c>
* Ranya
* [[List of secondary characters/Dominaria|Laena]]
* <c>Brimaz, King of Oreskos</c>


====Nacatl====
'''Unknown'''
* [[Ajani Goldmane]]
*[[Arahbo]]
* [[Jazal Goldmane]]
*[[Balan]]
*[[Falthis]]
*[[Prava]]
*[[Rin and Seri]] {{-}} a [[Dog]] Cat pair
*[[Roxanne]]
*[[Sparky]]


====Unique Cats====
'''Un-iverse'''
* <c>Jareth, Leonine Titan</c>
*<c>Jermane, Pride of the Circus</c>
}}


==Creature Update==
==Creature Update==
Creature types changed into Cat include:
Creature types changed into Cat include:
* '''Cheetah''' (<c>King Cheetah</c>)
*'''Cheetah''' (<c>King Cheetah</c>)
* '''Lion''' (<c>Savannah Lions</c>)
*'''Lion''' (<c>Savannah Lions</c>)
* '''Tiger''' (<c>Sabretooth Tiger</c>)
*'''Tiger''' (<c>Sabretooth Tiger</c>)
* '''Wildcat''' (<c>Uktabi Wildcats</c>)
*'''Wildcat''' (<c>Uktabi Wildcats</c>)
 
==Trivia==
*<c>Animal Sanctuary</c> is a [[land]] that can put [[+1/+1 counter]]s on cats.
*When ''[[Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths]]'' had a strong [[Tribal (theme)|tribal]] theme in [[Design#Vision Design|vision design]], Cats were the [[white]]-centered tribe.<ref>[[Mark Rosewater]] (April 20, 2020). "[https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/making-magic/ikoria-beholder-part-1-2020-04-20 Ikoria of the Beholder, Part 1]". ''[[magicthegathering.com]]''. Wizards of the Coast.</ref>
*''[[Core Set 2021]]'' and ''[[Jumpstart]]'' featured Cat Tribal.
*Both Naya and Ixalan have Mesoamerican-themed Catfolk, though there has been no known contact between the two cultures.
*The [[Rakshasa]] of [[Tarkir]] received [[errata]] to no longer being Cats.<ref>{{DailyRef|announcements/card-updates-coming-with-khans-of-tarkir-on-mtg-arena|Card Updates Coming with ''Khans of Tarkir'' on MTG Arena|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|November 3, 2023}}</ref> They were originally because the non-Hindu perception was largely based on the [[Dungeons & Dragons]]' portrayal of them. However, authentic Rakshasa were shapeshifters that could take any form, so labeling them Cat Demons was not particularly accurate.


==Tokens==
==Tokens==
Line 162: Line 259:


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
===Catfolk===
<gallery>
File:Cat warriors.jpg|Cat warriors of [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]]. Art by [[Melissa Benson]].
File:Panther warriors Dominaria.jpg|Panther Warriors of [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]]. Art by [[Eric Peterson]].
File:Lord Windgrace C18 Bram Sels.jpg|Lord [[Windgrace]] a Panther Warrior [[planeswalker]] from [[Urborg]], [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
File:Arctic Nishoba.jpg|Nishoba of Dominaria. Art by [[Dave Kendall]].
File:Jedit's Dragoons.jpg|Cat Warrior of [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
File:Leonin.jpg|Male and Female Leonin ([[Mirrodin]]/[[New Phyrexia (plane)|New Phyrexia]]). Art by [[Todd Lockwood]].
File:Lost Leonin.jpg|A Corrupted Leonin from [[Mirrodin]]/[[New Phyrexia (plane)|New Phyrexia]]
File:Ajani's Chosen Nacatl.jpg|Nacatls of [[Alara]].
File:Leonin Armorguard.jpg|A Leonin from [[Alara]].
File:Leonin-Lightscribe.jpg|A Leonin from [[Arcavios]].
File:Ajani Vengeant.jpg|[[Ajani Goldmane]] a Nacatl [[planeswalker]] from [[Alara]] ([[Naya]]).
File:Leonin of the Lost Pride.jpg|Leonins from [[Theros (plane)|Theros]].
File:Oreskos Swiftclaw.jpg|From [[Theros (plane)|Theros]].
File:Alms Collector .jpg|A [[cleric]] catfolk.
File:Pride Guardian.jpg|A [[monk]] Leonin.
File:CompleatedLeoninConcept.png|[[Compleation|Compleated]] [[New Phyrexia (plane)|New Phyrexian]] leonin concept.
File:TheranLeoninConcepts.jpg|Theran Leonin concepts by [[Peter Mohrbacher]].
File:Okinec Ahau MTGA avatar LCI.png|[[Okinec Ahau]], sovereign of the Malamet in [[Ixalan (plane)|Ixalan]]'s core.
</gallery>
===Other Cats===
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Cat warriors.jpg|Cat warriors. Art by [[Melissa Benson]].
File:Horned Cheetah.jpg|Horned Cheetah from from [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
Image:Leonin.jpg|Leonin. Art by [[Todd Lockwood]].
File:Noble Panther.jpg|Panther from [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
Image:Nishoba.jpg|Nishoba. Art by [[Dave Kendall]].
File:Springing Tiger.jpg|Tiger from [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
Image:Panther warriors.jpg|Panther warriors. Art by [[Eric Peterson]].
File:Blistering Firecat.jpg|A [[Elemental]] Cat from [[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]].
File:Wasitora.jpg|[[Wasitora]], Nekoru Queen ([[Dragon]] Cat), from [[Madara]] ([[Dominaria (plane)|Dominaria]]).
File:Adorned Pouncer.jpg|A cat from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Eternal cat.jpg|[[Zombie|Eternalized]] cat from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Pouncing Cheetah.jpg|A Cheetah from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Regal Caracal.jpg|A Caracal from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Pride Sovereign.jpg|A Lion from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Prowling Serpopard.jpg|A Serpopard ([[Snake]] Cat) from [[Amonkhet (plane)|Amonkhet]].
File:Cauldron Familiar.jpg|A Familiar cat from [[Eldraine]].
File:Keeper of Fables.jpg|A Cat from [[Eldraine]].
File:Prophet of the Peak.jpg|An Artifact Cat from [[Eldraine]].
File:Sanctuary Cat.jpg|A cat from [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]].
File:Black Cat.jpg|A [[zombie]] cat from [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]].
File:Ferocious Zheng.jpg|A Zheng from [[Plane of Mountains and Seas]].
File:Charmed Stray.jpg|Cats from [[Ravnica]]
File:Pouncing Lynx.jpg|A Lynx from [[Ravnica]].
File:Frenzied Arynx.jpg|An Arynx from [[Ravnica]].
File:Rubblebelt maaka.jpg|A Maaka from [[Ravnica]].
File:Pride of the Clouds.jpg|An [[elemental]] cat from [[Ravnica]].
File:Felidar Guardian.jpg|A Felidar from [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]].
File:Hunt-the-weak.jpg|A Tiger from [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]].
File:Longtusk cub.jpg|Longtusks from [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]].
File:Scrounging Bandar.jpg|A Bandar ([[Monkey]] Cat) from [[Kaladesh (plane)|Kaladesh]].
File:Zendikar Cat.jpg|A cat from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Loam Lion Zendikar.jpg|A lion from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Felidar Sovereign.jpg|A Felidar from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Scythe Tiger.jpg|A Scythe Tiger from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Scythe Leopard.jpg|A Scythe Leopard from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Stonework Puma.jpg|An [[Artifact]] Puma [[Ally]] from [[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikar]].
File:Canyon Wildcat.jpg|A cat from [[Rath]].
File:Leotaus.jpg|Leotaus from [[Alara]].
File:Undead Leotau.jpg|A zombie Leotau from [[Alara]].
File:Bronzehide Lion.png|A lion from [[Theros (plane)|Theros]].
File:Nylea's Emissary.jpg|A [[Nyxborn]] cat from [[Theros (plane)|Theros]].
File:Feline Sovereign.jpg
File:Canopy Stalker.jpg
File:Cubwarden.jpg|A Clad cat from [[Ikoria]].
File:Herald of the Forgotten.jpg|A Winged Cat from [[Ikoria]].
File:Frost Lynx.jpg|An [[Elemental]] Lynx from [[Ikoria]].
File:Frondland Felidar.jpg|A Felidar from [[Ikoria]].
File:Regal Leosaur.jpg|A Leosaur ([[Dinosaur]] Cat) from [[Ikoria]].
File:Ferocious Tigorilla.jpg|A Tigorilla ([[Ape]] Cat) from [[Ikoria]].
File:Lurrus.jpg|[[Lurrus]], a Cat [[Nightmare]] from [[Ikoria]].
File:Lurking Arynx.jpg|An Arynx from [[Tarkir]].
File:Pyretic Hunter.jpg|An [[Elemental]] Cat from [[Fiora]].
File:Cat.jpg|A Lynx.
File:Vivien's Invocation.jpg|Vivien's Tiger (Cat [[Spirit]]), one of [[Vivien]]'s invocations.
File:Slash Panther.jpg|A Phyrexian Panther [[Artifact]] from [[Mirrodin]]/[[New Phyrexia (plane)|New Phyrexia]].
File:Spirit of the Hearth.jpg|A [[Spirit]] Cat from [[Lorwyn–Shadowmoor]].
File:IkoriaCatConcept.png|[[Ikoria]] Cat-clade monster concept.
File:FelidarConcept.jpg|[[Zendikar (plane)|Zendikari]] Felidar concept by [[Aleksi Briclot]].
</gallery>
</gallery>


Latest revision as of 19:47, 5 July 2024

Cat
Creature Type
(Subtype for creature/kindred cards)
Beeble Scale 2[1]
Statistics
294 cards
{W} 39.8% {U} 2.4% {B} 5.1% {R} 7.8% {G} 22.8% {W/U} 2% {B/R} 0.7% {R/G} 1.7% {G/W} 7.1% {W/B} 1% {B/G} 0.3% {R/W} 1% {M} 5.8% {artifact symbol} 2.4%
39 Cat creation cards
{W} 56.4% {R} 2.6% {G} 17.9% {W/U} 5.1% {G/W} 2.6% {R/W} 2.6% {M} 12.8%
as of Murders at Karlov Manor
Scryfall Search
type:"Cat"

Cat is a creature type used for felines. In Magic, the term refers to both regular cats and other feline creatures (some endowed with sapience), such as lions and tigers.[2] The first creature to bear the type was Cat Warriors in Legends (though the Savannah Lions from Alpha was later issued errata to become a Cat). The first card with the subtype Cat without a second subtype was Canyon Wildcat from Tempest.[2]

Cats come in all colors, but are primarily found in green and white.[3]

Catfolk

Cat Warriors

Cat warriors are feline humanoids found throughout Dominaria, primarily on the continent of Jamuraa. There are various strains of cat warriors, some resembling tigers, others leopards or jaguars, and yet others cougars. The cat warriors have kept a relatively low profile throughout Dominaria's history, but they date back at least as far as the era of the Thran Empire.

There are various tribes of cat warriors. The Chitr’in were visited by Gerrard Capashen and Mirri once.[4] The Efravans, Hooraree, Khyyiani, and Sulaki live in the Sukurvian Desert. After the Phyrexian Invasion of Dominaria destroyed the cat warriors' Jamuraan homelands, their race was scattered across Dominaria.

The panther warriors, nacatl, leonin, and perhaps nishoba as well, might be considered to belong to the same race as other cat warriors, but their cultures are distinct enough to set them apart.

Dominarian catfolk, as a whole, appear to have become extinct, except for the panther warriors of Free Urborg.

Panther Warriors

The panther warriors are exiles of the cat warrior nations, many of whom had taken up residence in Urborg. They sometimes serve dark forces but are usually neutral in their worldview. During the Mirage Wars, they were led by Purraj, an ally of Kaervek, who came with him to Jamuraa from Urborg and possibly perished there.

Long after the demise of Lord Windgrace, his followers still defended Urborg by sabotaging the Cabal's artifacts.[5] Organized in Free Urborg, they were led by Marivel.

Leonin

Leonin are a form of anthropomorphic lion found on multiple planes. They have a strong connection to white mana.

Mirrodin Leonin

The Leonin of Mirrodin dwelled in the Razor Fields, their capital being Taj-Nar, the Ancient Den.[6] Their culture is highly honor-based and religious, worshipping the white sun. Clerics of the suns have to survive a year in the Razor Fields before they are regarded as full abunas (clerics[7]) that are allowed to lead other Leonin in religious ceremonies, particularly the Sunroar. As with all creatures from Mirrodin, they have partially metallic features. The Leonin shared a bond with the pterons, flying reptiles, and specialized skyhunters used them as mounts. Those that hunted on the ground were known as "shikari."[8] Leonin weaponsmiths were known as "edgewrights," a term borrowed by the Auriok.[9]

After Memnarch was defeated and Karn, Mirrodin's creator, sent those leonin abducted from other planes back to where they had come from, a schism ran through the remaining ones. One group supported a new kha named Kemba, calling themselves the kha-tal. The other, formerly the Obu-tal, called for a revolution against the old societal structures, believing that they did not apply to the changing world.[10]

Like all inhabitants of Mirrodin, the leonin were drawn to that world from another plane. Though never explicitly stated, it is possible that they came from Alara; both the nacatl and the leonin call their leader the kha, and after Alara reformed, some Nacatl began calling themselves Leonin.

Nacatl

The nacatl are a race of leonin from the shard of Naya (originally part of Alara). The males look very similar to the leonin of Mirrodin (sans metal plating) and have light fur, while the females lack manes. Naya's leonin display more physiological variety than Mirrodin's leonin; Nacatl have coats like tigers, jaguars, ocelots, and others, ranging from mottled-jaguar to silver-gray to completely black.[11][12][13]

The cat-people used to dominate Naya, with the nacatl's Empire of the Clouds operating an extensive system of roads, bridges, and aqueducts across the plane — all constructed out of rocks and timbers so finely cut that mortar was unnecessary.[13] During the years of the empire, the Nacatl didn’t have a spiritual culture. The Nacatl embraced a code of ethics called the Coil in which each was free to pursue happiness however they wanted as long as they didn't hurt another Nacatl. A rebellious faction known as the Claws of Marisi believed they had grown weak, and that they should return to their true cat nature. Their empire crumbled and the nacatl were reduced to isolated tribes.[14] By the time of the Conflux, the nacatl were split into at least two cultural groups: the peaceful Cloud Nacatl, who inhabited the mountain ruins of their ancestors, and the violent Wild Nacatl and Claws of Marisi, who lived in the lowland jungles; the two groups had nothing but contempt for each other. Scratchforms is the writing system employed by the nacatl. Among Wild Nacatl, scratchforms are predominantly used by shamans. The most important text set in scratchforms was the Coil.[15]

Most Nacatl have returned to wandering the cloud jungles and grow more feral with each generation.[13] Many have returned to a mainly nocturnal existence, sleeping in low branches during the day and doing most of their hunting in the early evening. Starstalkers are the most skilled hunters of the Wild Nacatl and are highly respected for their physical prowess. Many nomadic tribes camp in the ruins of their former civilization. Because of fewer resources in the high jungles, the Nacatl have begun wandering into the lower elevations, where they fight both elves and humans over territory.

The Nacatl social unit is the pride.[13] Among the Cloud Nacatl, prides are longstanding and complex familial structures with great histories and bloodlines. The Wild Nacatl, however, have prides that are looser and more changeable. Each pride has a leader, though individuals within the pride generally have the freedom to do as they wish. Leadership and status are determined through ferocity and survival rather than blood ties.

While stonework is used in the construction of roads and large buildings, the Nacatl prefer to live in drays: small, stone-hewn dens built around tree trunks and in cliff faces.[13] The Nacatl-like baskets and reed weaving, decorate their drays with remnants of their warrior past, like old shields, weapons, and exquisite tusk carvings. Celebration and wealth are highly prized among the Nacatl.

The savage nacatl are a subgroup of which very little is known, save that they disdain the use of weapons and armor. Savage nacatl are larger and more muscular than other cat-people, with no manes, gray fur, and black tiger-like stripes. Their relation to other nacatl is unknown.

After the Conflux, when Alara was made whole once more, some nacatl migrated to the civilized lands of Bant and began integrating into the city-dwelling culture. The Bant cat-people, who adapted to the chivalrous code of knights and soldiers, simply called themselves leonin. The Nayan pride of the Sunstrikers is loyal to Ajani. It's their sworn duty to keep his and their lands safe.[16]

Nacatl means 'Meat' in Nahuatl, which is a Mesoamerican language notably used by the Aztecs.

Theros Leonin

Unlike the proud leonin of other planes, Theros' leonin are disgraced outcasts due to their previous support of the Archon Agnomakhos, who tyrannized Meletis and surrounding lands. These leonin make a conscious effort to separate themselves from humanity and the other races, down to not worshipping the main gods of Theros, though some do still occasionally honor Heliod and Nylea.[17] Most live in the golden plain of Oreskos.[18] Each year, on the day of the first full moon after the autumn equinox, matriarchs from all the leonin prides gather at Tethmos to select a monarch, who acts as a representative of the pride in the wider world.

Capennan leonin

On Capenna, the leonin are mostly associated with the Cabaretti crime family, although they are also present in the Brokers. Uniquely they more closely resemble domestic cats and caracals rather than lions.

Malamet

The Malamet are jaguarfolk living in the underground caverns of Ixalan.[19] They are taller and broader than the plane's vampires and have longer fangs. They are hearty, clever, and wise but suspicious, territorial, and ruthless.[20] An ancient people, the Malamet's customs are set, their communication rigid and formal.[21]

According to their histories, the Malamet fought alongside the humans and merfolk in the Night War against the Coin Empire and the followers of Aclazotz.[20] After their shared victory, the Malamet journeyed to the surface, but returned to the caverns after their empires were defeated by the nascent Sun Empire. Now with very few living members remaining, they hope to one day return to the surface but generally recognize that they exist in the twilight of their culture.[22]

A fundamentally vain people, in addition to shaping their buildings after their fangs, the Malamet language is recorded on stele in glyphs based on the spot markings on their fur.[21][20] Malamet textiles, carvings, clothing, armor, weapons, icons of status, and so on all bear meaningful glyphs, phrases, and names; mastery over the vast Malamet alphabet is a desirable quality among the Malamet, as well as one's aptitude in combining glyphs to create the most information-dense poetics one can. Malamet magic, as well, is derived from their glyphs: the will, wisdom, stories, and very forms of their ancestors are written into these glyphs and can be summoned to aid them in times of need.[22]

Malamet society is grouped into castes known as cadres, and turmoil between cadre affiliations has on rare occasions fomented into war.[20] Malamet warriors wear intricate jade armor, wielding bows, serrated obsidian blades, and polearms.[19] Their nobility and priesthood wear elaborate headdresses and collars. They worship their leader as a god and bare their throats deferentially when speaking to him. Malamet mythweavers can ascertain someone's intentions by projecting a magic image of their desires. Mythweavers and glyphscribes are known to pilgrimage to the ghost city of Chama Koj to learn its history.

The Malamet likely drew inspiration from the Aztec Jaguar warriors. Some Malamet have Maya names, and their cities suspended by bridges may draw inspiration from the raised causeways of Xingu cities.

Nishoba

Ogre-sized cat-people blending the features of snow leopards and smilodons with some wolflike features, nishobas lived as marauders in cold regions. Nishobas are known to have lived on the continents of Terisiare and Otaria on Dominaria.[2] The name nishoba is said to originate from a Native American word meaning "wolf," though the original word and language are unknown.[23]

Regular cats

Nearly every real-world species of cat has been printed with the cat type, including:

Domestic cats

Domestic cats had been rarely featured in Magic, until Amonkhet. When they are, they are often sacred creatures associated with white mana, or black familiars of witches.

Amonkhet

Cats are sacred to the god of solidarity, Oketra, though they lack it. At least some are embalmed after death.

Innistrad

Sanctuary Cats patrol churches in order to root devils out.

Ravnica

A variety of domestic cat breeds such as Generous Stray and Charmed Stray are found on the streets of Ravnica.

Eldraine

Black cats in Eldraine appear near the The Cauldron of Eternity as a Cauldron Familiar, and take advantage of its resurrection powers.

Other cats

Arynx

Horned Cat Beasts from Tarkir and Ravnica. Once it has the scent, it hunts down its prey to the end.

Felidars

The Zendikar continent of Sejiri is home to felidars, ferocious horned cat beasts. Some human knights can tame them.[24] Felidars that make it through their first year of life can easily live to see a hundred years more. Certain felidars are believed to have become isolated from the skyclaves, where over time they became the monstrous shadowcats that now inhabit them.

Felidars are also found on Kaladesh, where they are kept as guard beasts, and on Ikoria.[25] Felidars are also found on Ravnica, where they are primarily associated with the Azorius Guild where they form strong bonds with a single individual, sometimes a criminal, allowing them to see through their eyes and find them anywhere on the plane. Some Ravnican Felidars are winged.[26] Winged Felidars with access to magic serve as bonded mounts for the plane's Archons.[27]

Felidars can also be found on Thunder Junction, although it is unknown if they are endemic.

Firecats

Firecats are elemental cats native to the Pardic Mountains of Otaria. As their name suggests, their bodies are permanently ablaze. Their extinguished furs were often used as clothing by the Pardic barbarians.

Ikorian Cats

On Ikoria, cats are one of the dominant clades and in particular oversee Savai. They are elegant but sadistic predators that toy with their prey. Like all life on Ikoria, they are mutants, and several have wings, which Vivien Reid remarks as not being seen as unusual there.[28] Non-hybridized Ikorian cats range from small, tusked creatures the size of housecats to winged panthers the size of a horse.[29]

Nightcats

A variety of cats that are native to Indatha as opposed to Savai. They glow.

Jhovalls

Jhovalls are enormous cats native to Mercadia. They are fierce in combat and are large and strong enough to be used as mounts for fully armored warriors, although training to ride the beasts takes many years of practice. Jhovall riders, therefore, make up the elite corps of both the Mercadian and Cho-Arrim armies.

Leotau

Leotau (LEE-oh-tau[30]) are semi-intelligent mounts employed by the Inner Three nations of Bant, distantly related to the leonin of Naya.[13] They are unique in that they are hooved animals; they have the heads and bodies of lions but possess the legs of horses or bulls. Leotau prefer the shard's inland savannahs and have a notorious dislike of the ocean and coastal areas. Neither Jhess nor Valeron use the leotau for this reason. There are three distinct leotau subspecies: the white-coated orisil favored by the Blessed caste; the golden, fleet-footed mherva; and the large, calico/dappled grohm.

Undead variants of these species are present in Grixis.

Maaka

Giant, six-eyed cats on Ravnica, loyal to the Gruul.[31]

Serpopards

Based on an actual mythological creature, serpopards are snake cats endemic to Amonkhet. They serve the god Rhonas.

Stonework Pumas

The ancient product of an unknown Zendikari runesculptor or sculptors, stonework pumas have long been the reliable choice of many adventuring parties. There are known to be less than a hundred such artifact creatures in existence, and each one has been named after its famous exploits.[32]

Tora

The Tora (TOH-ra) of Kamigawa are tigers.[33]

Urborg Panthers

Urborg Panthers are cat-like nightstalkers.

Yalomar Cats

Yalomar cats were powerful felines native to the region of Khone on Corondor.[34] One cat was used in training the Numbered Ones in the Valley of Sacrifice. When the Numbered Ones managed to destroy it with magic, the resulting blast blinded the Khonian midwives and killed all but one of the Numbered Ones, leaving only Gydolien Mor alive.

Zheng

The Zheng are cat beasts from Shenmeng. They are known for their glowing horn and stone-rattling roar and are the fiercest predators in the forest.

Notable Cats

Alara
Nacatl

Capenna

Dominaria

Cat Warriors
Nekoru
Panther Warriors
Others

Ikoria

Ixalan

Mirrodin/New Phyrexia

Leonin

Shandalar

Theros

Tovalda

Zendikar

Unknown

Un-iverse

Creature Update

Creature types changed into Cat include:

Trivia

Tokens

Token Name Color Type Line P/T Text Box Source Printings
Cat White Creature — Cat 1/1
White Creature — Cat 1/1 Lifelink
White Creature — Cat 2/2
White Creature — Cat 2/2 Flying
Black Creature — Cat 2/1
Green Creature — Cat 1/1
Green Creature — Cat 2/2
Green Creature — Cat 2/2 Haste
Green Creature — Cat 3/2 Shroud
Cat Beast White Creature — Cat Beast 2/2
Cat Bird White Creature — Cat Bird 1/1 Flying
Cat Dragon Black/​Red/​Green Creature — Cat Dragon 3/3 Flying
Cat Soldier White Creature — Cat Soldier 1/1 Vigilance
Cat Warrior White Creature — Cat Warrior 2/1
Green Creature — Cat Warrior 2/2 Forestwalk
Guenhwyvar Green Legendary Creature — Cat 4/1 Trample
Dinosaur Cat Red/​White Creature — Dinosaur Cat 2/2
Elemental Cat Red Creature — Elemental Cat 1/1 Haste
Ajani's Pridemate White Creature — Cat Soldier 2/2 Whenever you gain life, put a +1/+1 counter on Ajani's Pridemate.
Sacred Cat White Creature — Zombie Cat 1/1 Lifelink
Adorned Pouncer Black Creature — Zombie Cat 4/4 Double strike
Tabaxi Toucaneers White Creature — Cat Ranger 3/2 Flying
Nacatl War-Pride Green Creature — Cat Warrior 3/3 Nacatl War-Pride must be blocked by exactly one creature if able.
Whenever Nacatl War-Pride attacks, create X tokens that are copies of Nacatl War-Pride and that are tapped and attacking, where X is the number of creatures defending player controls. Exile the tokens at the beginning of the next end step.

Gallery

Catfolk

Other Cats

References

  1. ↑ Mark Rosewater (December 1, 2018). "I'm curious as to where cats are on the Beeble scale.". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  2. ↑ a b c Mark Rosewater (August 7, 2017). "Cats". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  3. ↑ Quinn Murphy (August 7, 2017). "Surprise Cats". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  4. ↑ Peter Archer (ed.) Rath and Storm anthology. Wizards of the Coast.
  5. ↑ Windgrace Acolyte
  6. ↑ Magic Arcana (January 19, 2004). "Style Guide - Leonin". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  7. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (September 2004). "Ask Wizards - September 2004". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  8. ↑ Doug Beyer (October 26, 2010). "You Down with O-T-T?". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast. Archived from the original on October 23, 2021.
  9. ↑ Doug Beyer (October 20, 2010). "Three's a Craft". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast. Archived from the original on April 29, 2021.
  10. ↑ Doug Beyer (December 8, 2010). "The Nonhuman cultures of Mirrodin". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  11. ↑ Magic Arcana (April 17, 2008). "The Secrets of the Cat People!". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  12. ↑ Doug Beyer (December 17, 2008). "Insights from the Inbox". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  13. ↑ a b c d e f Doug Beyer & Jenna Helland (2008). A Planeswalker's Guide to Alara, Wizards of the Coast. ISBN-13 978-0786951246
  14. ↑ Doug Beyer (November 5, 2008). "The Movers and Shakers of Naya". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  15. ↑ Jenna Helland (September 10, 2008). "Running Wild". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  16. ↑ Jenna Helland (August 15, 2012). "The Stonekiller, Part 2". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  17. ↑ Mike McArtor (March 19, 2014). "That's All Catfolks". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  18. ↑ Wizards RPG Team (2020), D&D Mythic Odysseys of Theros, Wizards of the Coast
  19. ↑ a b Valerie Valdes (October 20, 2023). "The Lost Caverns of Ixalan - Episode 3". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  20. ↑ a b c d Miguel Lopez (November 10, 2023). "Planeswalker's Guide to the Lost Caverns of Ixalan". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  21. ↑ a b Ovidio Cartagena (November 8, 2023). "Lost Caverns of Ixalan Worldbuilding Q&A". Discord. Archived from the original on November 8, 2023.
  22. ↑ a b Harless Snyder, Natalie Kreider, Miguel Lopez, and Ovidio Cartagena (December 19, 2023). "The Lost Caverns of Ixalan #49: The Origins of Ixalan, Part 2". The Magic Story Podcast.
  23. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (January 15, 2002). "The Lexicon Archive". Wizards of the Coast. Archived from the original on April 19, 2017.
  24. ↑ Magic Arcana (April 22, 2010). "Riding the Felidar". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  25. ↑ Frondland Felidar
  26. ↑ D&D Guildmasters' Guide to Ravnica
  27. ↑ Dragon Talk: LYSK Monsters of Ravnica (Video). Dungeons & Dragons. YouTube (November 13, 2018).
  28. ↑ Chris Mooney (April 2, 2020). "Planeswalker's Guide to Ikoria". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  29. ↑ Jay Annelli (2022). Magic: The Gathering - The Visual Guide, DK. ISBN-13 978-0744061055.
  30. ↑ Doug Beyer (October 8, 2008). "An Angel's Eye View of Bant". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  31. ↑ Trick Jarrett (May 10, 2013). "Bloodrush Art". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  32. ↑ Doug Beyer (November 4, 2009). "Ally Cuisine". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  33. ↑ Magic Arcana (January 24, 2005). "A Kamigawa Glossary, Part 2". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  34. ↑ Dakkon Blackblade (comic)
  35. ↑ Mark Rosewater (April 20, 2020). "Ikoria of the Beholder, Part 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  36. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (November 3, 2023). "Card Updates Coming with Khans of Tarkir on MTG Arena". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  37. ↑ Magic Arcana (March 15, 2007). "Planar Chaos Token Art 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast. Archived from the original on January 23, 2022.
 
Multicolored {M}
Majority {W}
Majority {U}
Majority {B}
Majority {R}
Majority {G}
Majority {C}
Majority Token
Crossover
 
Notable Races
Notable Classes
Other
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