Generally, they were apex predators, meaning they were at the top of the food chain. Their diet likely consisted of:
* Large herbivores: They were well-equipped to take down large mammals like bison, horses, camels, and even young mammoths. Their powerful jaws and long, sharp canines were perfect for tearing flesh.
* Smaller prey: They also likely hunted smaller animals like deer, antelope, and even birds.
* Carrion: They were opportunistic scavengers and would have taken advantage of carcasses left behind by other predators.
The exact composition of their diet varied depending on the availability of prey in their environment. Some species, like Smilodon fatalis, were highly specialized for hunting large prey, while others were more generalist feeders.
It's important to remember that Saber-toothed cats are a broad term that covers several different extinct species. Each species had its own unique adaptations and dietary preferences.