Mammals are a diverse group of animals characterized by several distinctive features:
* Warm-bloodedness (Endothermy): Mammals maintain a relatively constant body temperature regardless of the external environment. This adaptation allows mammals to be active in various habitats, including cold climates. Cheetahs, like all other mammals, regulate their body temperatures to stay warm and maintain proper physiological functions.
* Furry or Hairy Coat: Mammals have fur or hair that covers their skin. This insulative layer helps in maintaining body heat, provides protection, and aids in camouflage. Cheetahs have short and dense fur that provides insulation and allows for fast running.
* Milk Production: Female mammals have mammary glands that produce milk to nourish their offspring. Cheetah mothers also lactate and feed their cubs with nutrient-rich milk.
* Viviparity: The vast majority of mammals give birth to live young, not lay eggs. Cheetahs are also viviparous, meaning their females carry and give birth to offspring that develop inside the mother's body.
* Parental Care: Parental involvement and care for the young are prominent in mammals. Cheetah mothers take great care of their cubs, providing protection, nurturing them, and teaching them hunting skills.
Therefore, cheetahs possess these mammal-specific characteristics, such as warm-bloodedness, fur, milk production, viviparity, and parental care. Based on these features, cheetahs are classified as mammals.