© Peter Archdale / CC BY 4.0Common Genet
The genet is a nocturnal carnivore from the civet family, native to Africa and southwestern Europe. Its slender body measures 43 to 55 cm in head-to-body length, balanced by a tail nearly as long, marked with bold stripes and rings. Weighing between 1 and 3 kg (around 2 kg on average), genets are agile climbers built for moving gracefully through trees. They tend to be solitary and cautious by nature, and rarely warm up to people quickly. Their wild appearance and quiet presence draw in dedicated enthusiasts, though keeping one well requires understanding their nocturnal rhythm and providing a suitable environment.
View Common Genet encyclopedia →0% commission on your first sales!Register by September 30, 2026 and your first 2 sales are commission-free!
Breeder Wanted!
List on BreederDirect and sell directly to customers nationwide!
6 Transparency Commitments from Br-Choku
Every Small Pets listing from Breeder includes the information below. We guarantee transparency through health checks, vaccinations, microchips, and more.
- Hand-Tamed
- Health Checked
- Vaccinated
- Microchipped
- Real Photos
- Age Specified
Browse all 145 breeds
Care Difficulty
Verified breeders wanted for Small Pets
Breeders are signing up now ahead of launch. Subscribe to be notified when new listings go live.
Getting alerts is free with a member account. When new listings match your saved search, we'll notify you by email and in-app.
Browse other categories
Verified breeders (preview)
Are you raising small pets?
Register as a breeder and connect with buyers directly.
Apply as a breederAbout Common Genet
The genet is a nocturnal, solitary carnivore from Africa and southwestern Europe, known for its slender body, striped tail, and climbing skill. An advanced-level exotic pet, best suited to experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Common Genet
1A Nocturnal Rhythm
Genets are most active at night and tend to rest quietly during the day. Because their activity cycle runs opposite to ours, providing a calm, sheltered resting spot matters as much as daytime quiet.
2A Strongly Solitary Nature
In the wild, genets live and hunt alone, so housing multiple genets together isn't a good fit. Building trust means respecting the animal's own pace rather than forcing frequent handling.
3A Vertical Living Space
Genets are skilled climbers, so a tall enclosure with branches or perches for vertical movement is essential. Adding a hideaway spot also helps them feel secure.
4Wariness and Building Trust
Genets are naturally wary and can take a long time to warm up to their keeper. Rather than forcing contact, gradually closing the distance through consistent daily interaction works best.
5A Diet Suited to a Carnivore
As a carnivore in the civet family, a genet needs a diet suited specifically to its physiology. It's worth researching proper nutritional needs thoroughly before bringing one home.
6An Advanced-Level Animal
Genets are considered an advanced-level animal to keep. Even keepers experienced with other small mammals or cats should research thoroughly beforehand, given their nocturnal habits and cautious nature.
7A Long-Term Commitment
In captivity, genets can live up to around 13 years, so keepers should be prepared for a long-term commitment through changes in the animal's environment and health. It's worth thinking through a lifelong care plan before bringing one home.
Frequently asked questions about Common Genet
- Q.Can beginners keep a genet?
- A.Genets are considered an advanced-level pet. Given their nocturnal habits and cautious temperament, even keepers experienced with other small mammals should research thoroughly before considering one.
- Q.How big does a genet grow?
- A.Adult genets reach a head-to-body length of about 43 to 55 cm, with a tail measuring 33 to 52 cm, and typically weigh between 1 and 3 kg (around 2 kg on average). Their striped tail is nearly as long as their body.
- Q.How long do genets live?
- A.In captivity, genets can live up to around 13 years. It's important to be prepared for a long-term commitment to their care and changing needs over that time.
- Q.Can a genet live alongside other pets?
- A.Genets have a strongly solitary nature and aren't well suited to being housed with other genets. Whether to combine them with other pets at all needs careful, individual consideration.
- Q.Are there any CITES restrictions on genets?
- A.Genets are not covered by CITES. This holds true regardless of their native range across Africa and southwestern Europe.
Useful tools for Common Genet care
Learn more about Common Genet in the encyclopedia
View Common Genet encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
More in this category
Can't find the one you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and breeders with matching animals will contact you with introductions.