Genets are Old World carnivores of the family Viverridae, related to civets and linsangs.

Genets are superficially cat-like creatures, despite being only distantly related to cats. Most of them have spotted coats and long, banded tails, small heads, and large ears. Like civets, genets have strong musk glands, which are used to mark territory, and they are known to perform handstands when doing this. Genets are highly agile creatures, and are the only Viverrids that stand bipedally.

All live exclusively in Africa except for the widespread Common Genet Genetta genetta, which can be found in Northwest Africa and throughout Europe, parts of the Middle East, and the Balearic Islands.

Genets are inquisitive, but very cautious animals, and are easily startled. A genet can squeeze its body through any opening large enough for its head to pass through. It is virtually impossible to hold a genet who does not wish to be held. When scruffed, genets can even turn inside of their skin to facilitate escape. Genets will bite when frightened or cornered, but generally use their bites as a warning, rarely attacking with the ferocity of which they are capable.