Genette, or GENET (Genetta), usually regarded as a separate genus of carnivorous mammals, but by some included in the genus Civet (q.v.). The genettes differ from the civets in their smaller size, the vertically slit pupil, the completely retractible claws, the smallness of the anal pouch, and the faintness of the characteristic odour. Of six species of genette, five are found only in Africa; the common genette is found also in the south of
Europe and Syria. Its fur is gray with black or brown spots, and it is the only viverrine animal found in Europe. Genettes may be trained to catch mice like cats.