Rusty-spotted cats are all contenders for the title of the world’s smallest wild cat. Some say a smaller, “washed out” variant of the Leopard Cat Prionailurus bengalensis. The Rusty Spotted Cat is a cautious and elusive feline. Most of India and parts of Sri Lanka have confirmed sightings. This species is difficult to monitor and study because of its nocturnal habits and intense fear of humans. Cats were a big part of T.C. Jordon’s life, and the 19th-century scientist had one of his own.