Some of the most famous genera include:
* Smilodon: This is the most well-known saber-toothed cat, often referred to as the "saber-toothed tiger." The species *Smilodon fatalis* lived in North and South America during the Pleistocene epoch.
* Homotherium: This genus of saber-toothed cat was widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
* Machairodus: This genus, with various species, lived in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
Therefore, when referring to a saber-toothed cat scientifically, you need to specify the genus and species. For example, *Smilodon fatalis* refers to a specific species of saber-toothed cat.