A cat is a feline and a feline is a cat. Therefore, there might not be a difference but it depends on how these words are used as they have different uses. The word “feline” can be a noun and an adjective while the word “cat” is a noun. When “cat” is used as an adjective it is hyphenated like this: “cat-like”. So feline means cat-like. There is an overlap in the use of the words.
Here are some examples in sentences.
- Feline and cat used as nouns in one sentence: A cat is a feline and a feline is a cat.
- Feline used as an adjective and cat used as a noun in the same sentence: The high filial Bengal Cat has a wild feline character.
- Feline used as an adjective: Ms Smith moved with feline grace.
- Feline used as an adjective and cat as a noun: This cat has feline cancer.
- Feline used as noun: Ms Smith’s cat is a superb and graceful feline.
- Cat used as an adjective in a hyphenated word: Ms Smith was cat-like in her movements.
- Cat used as a noun: Ms Smith owns a cat.
- Cat used as a noun: The Maine Coon is an American cat breed.
