Here's why coyotes are different from cats:
* Physical characteristics: Coyotes have long, pointed muzzles, bushy tails, and erect ears, unlike cats which have short, rounded muzzles, stubby tails, and retractable claws.
* Social behavior: Coyotes are highly social animals, living in packs and cooperating in hunting. Cats, on the other hand, are generally solitary animals, except for mothers with their kittens.
* Diet: Coyotes are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. Cats are obligate carnivores, needing a diet consisting primarily of meat.
Here are some key differences between coyotes and other members of the cat family:
| Feature | Coyote (Canidae) | Cat (Felidae) |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Canidae | Felidae |
| Size | Medium-sized | Small to large |
| Physical characteristics | Long, pointed muzzle, bushy tail, erect ears | Short, rounded muzzle, stubby tail, retractable claws |
| Social behavior | Packs | Solitary |
| Diet | Omnivore | Obligate carnivore |
| Hunting style | Cooperative | Solitary |
| Vocalizations | Howls, yelps, barks | Meows, purrs, hisses |
Therefore, comparing coyotes to cats is like comparing apples to oranges. They belong to different families and have vastly different physical characteristics, behaviors, and diets.