Baqa Cat

The Baqa cat is known for its leaping prowess as well as its rather remarkable intelligence. The cats can be trained to accept a rider and the breeding farms near Camp Baqa both ensure the continued survival of the species and make the cats available at a sizeable price. In the Dalkori Empire it is considered quite prestigious to own a Baqa Cat as only a handful are available for sale each year.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Massive, with a physiology similar to its close relative the tiger, the Baqa cat has extremely powerful hind legs which enable it to jump further than any other known cat. Horizontal leaps of 45 feet have been measured and, even with a rider, the cats are able to jump over 15 feet into the air. Its spine is able to twist almost 180 degrees which allows the cat to fall from great heights and ensure a solid landing on it's feet.

Genetics and Reproduction

The challenge of these cats breeding in the wild is well-documented and nearly led to their extinction until some hardy souls in the Baqalin Jungle decided to capture a couple of specimens and worked to start the breeding program at Camp Baqa that has become so lucrative and legendary. A gestation period of six months followed by a live birth that is equally dangerous for both mother and cub must be closely supported by the experts at the camp. Even with carefully controlled conditions only a handful of viable cubs live through their first year.

Growth Rate & Stages

The cubs who live through their first year quickly transition from cub to adolescence and by their third birthday are considered full adults. It is during the adolescence that they are most compliant and therefore easy to train. A well-cared for Baqa Cat who escapes death by disease or in battle is able to live up to 50 years.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Baqa cats, like many of its cousins, are excellent hunters. Their natural abilities of stealth and speed are coupled with a strong auditory and olfactory senses. Some scholars believe that their ability to jump such great heights and distances is fueled by a supernatural source but those schooled in the arcane and divine have found nothing to confirm this theory.

Scientific Name

Panthera Baqas

Conservation Status

The cats have always struggled to breed successfully in the wild which has always kept their numbers quite low. Cubs who do survive to birth are often killed quickly by other members of its species if the mother is not strong enough to fight them off. The breeding program that is run at Camp Baqa is the only way to produce a sizable number of healthy specimens to ensure the survival of the species.