Catfolk

Basic Information

Anatomy

Catfolk are bipedal humanoids with lithe, agile frames covered in a fine, velvety coat of fur. While their fur varies in length and color depending on lineage and environment, it remains a defining trait of their species. Their feline-like faces retain expressive features, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions, often enhanced by the subtle flicks and twitches of their ears and tails.
Each Catfolk possesses a long, non-prehensile tail that plays a crucial role in balance, agility, and even communication—twitches, sways, and bristling fur serving as an unspoken language among their kind. Their hands, while humanoid, end in retractable claws. Though typically too delicate for combat, certain Catfolk, whether by natural quirk, dedicated conditioning, or ritual sharpening, develop claws strong enough to be used as weapons in personal combat.

Biological Traits

Catfolk possess a variety of striking physical traits reminiscent of jungle cats, showcasing their wild heritage. Their fur is soft and fine, often adorned with unique markings and coloration that vary among individuals, mirroring the patterns found in species such as leopards, ocelots, and tigers. These patterns serve as both a form of camouflage in their savannah habitat and a means of individual expression within their tribes.
The Catfolk have large, expressive ears that sit atop their heads, allowing them to hear even the faintest sounds in their environment. This acute sense of hearing is vital for both hunting and staying alert to potential dangers. Their tails, while not prehensile, average a few feet in length and are highly expressive, used in communication and balance as they navigate their surroundings.
Additionally, Catfolk possess retractable claws on their hands, which, while not primarily used as weapons, can be sharpened or hardened by some individuals for personal combat. This adaptability in their biology reflects their need for both hunting and self-defense.
Overall, the combination of their physical features enhances their agility and reflexes, making them agile hunters and adept survivors in the vast Horse Wilds.

Genetics and Reproduction

The Catfolk have always been a rare people, their numbers never reaching the vast populations of other species. Their naturally low reproductive rate has long kept them few in number, but centuries of targeted slaver raids have further decimated their kind. The slavers of Zylistan, drawn to the grace and exotic allure of Catfolk females, frequently abducted them to serve as entertainers, dancers, and personal attendants. This relentless predation, combined with the Catfolk’s own slow birth rate, has left their people on the brink of extinction.
Today, only a few thousand Catfolk remain, scattered across the untamed expanse of the Horse Wilds. They have divided into an estimated dozen nomadic tribes, each struggling to preserve their way of life against both the harsh wilderness and the ever-present threat of outsiders.

Growth Rate & Stages

Catfolk reach adulthood around the age of 15, entering a period of life characterized by agility, strength, and resilience. Their physical prowess allows them to thrive as hunters and gatherers within the vast expanse of the Horse Wilds. This peak performance typically lasts until they reach about 40 years of age, after which they gradually begin to slow down.
By the time they reach 50, Catfolk are considered elderly, as their bodies start to break down, becoming increasingly susceptible to aches and pains that accompany aging. The average lifespan of a Catfolk is around 60 years, though it is not uncommon for some to live a decade longer, particularly those who have maintained a healthy lifestyle and adapted to the rigors of their environment.

Ecology and Habitats

The Catfolk inhabit the vast savannah-like plains of the Horse Wilds, a region characterized by tall grasses and sprawling herds of wild horses. This expansive landscape provides ample resources for their nomadic lifestyle, with diverse flora and fauna supporting their survival.
In addition to wild horses, Catfolk are skilled breeders and tamers of these majestic creatures, raising them to serve as prized mounts. These horses are highly sought after by other kingdoms and countries, making them symbols of status and prestige. Catfolk take great pride in their breeding techniques, ensuring their horses are strong, agile, and well-adapted to the challenges of the open plains.
While their primary relationship with horses is one of companionship and trade, Catfolk also have a deep respect for the balance of their ecosystem. They rely on other sources of food, such as small game and foraged plants, allowing their domesticated horses to thrive without becoming a food source themselves. The Catfolk's nomadic nature ensures that they do not overexploit any one area, promoting the regeneration of the grasslands and maintaining harmony with the environment.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Catfolk are primarily carnivorous, relying on small game such as rodents, birds, and the occasional larger prey they can hunt in packs. Their sharp senses and quick reflexes make them highly skilled hunters, and they are particularly adept at ambushing their prey from the tall grasses of the Horse Wilds. While their diet is largely meat-based, they supplement it with a variety of foraged plants, fruits, and roots, which are both nutritious and help balance their diet.
Food plays a significant role in Catfolk culture, often tied to community and celebration. After a successful hunt, a Catfolk tribe will come together to share their spoils, reinforcing bonds between tribe members. Meat is often cooked over open fires, with the tribe’s elders or spiritual leaders blessing the food before it is consumed, honoring the spirits of the land and ancestors.
The Catfolk’s nomadic nature means that their diet shifts with the seasons. During the warmer months, when the plains are lush with plant life and the wild herds of horses graze nearby, food is more abundant, and they can afford to hunt larger prey. In the colder months, when resources become scarcer, they rely more on preserved foods such as dried meats and stored roots.
Though not a staple of their diet, the Catfolk have also developed a taste for certain herbs and spices that enhance the flavor of their food. These are often used in ceremonies or special gatherings to mark significant events, such as the changing of seasons or the birth of new tribe members.

Biological Cycle

The biological cycle of the Catfolk is closely tied to the rhythms of the Horse Wilds. Mating season typically occurs during the warmer months when food is abundant, and the wild horses are in full bloom. During this time, males often engage in displays of strength and agility to attract potential mates, showcasing their skills through acrobatic feats and races across the plains.
After a gestation period of about three months, females give birth to litters of typically one to three kittens, which are cared for collectively by the mother and other members of the tribe. The young are born blind and helpless, relying on their mothers for warmth and nourishment. As they grow, they begin to explore their surroundings, developing their keen senses and physical abilities.
As the kittens reach the age of about 6 months, they start to learn essential survival skills through play and observation. They remain with their mothers for around a year, during which they acquire the knowledge necessary to thrive in the harsh realities of their environment.
In preparation for the colder months, Catfolk engage in foraging and hunting to build up their food reserves. During this time, they may also participate in seasonal rituals to honor their ancestors and the natural world, reinforcing their bonds as a community and ensuring their traditions are passed down through generations.

Behaviour

Catfolk are known for their spirited and playful nature, often displaying a sense of curiosity that drives them to explore their environment and seek new experiences. This inherent playfulness is evident in their interactions, both with one another and with the world around them. They are social creatures who thrive in communal settings, valuing the bonds formed within their tribes.
The social structure of Catfolk tribes is often matriarchal, with female leaders guiding decision-making and nurturing the young. Elders are respected for their wisdom and experience, often serving as advisors and storytellers, passing down traditions and history through oral tales. This emphasis on community fosters a strong sense of loyalty and cooperation, with individuals working together for the tribe’s well-being.
Despite their playful demeanor, Catfolk are also fiercely protective of their territory and loved ones. They have a keen instinct for detecting danger, making them vigilant guardians of their tribe. This protective nature extends to their horses, which they view not only as cherished companions but also as valuable assets.
While the Catfolk share a deep bond with their horses, they also engage in trade with merchants from other kingdoms, selling their prized mounts to those who appreciate their strength and beauty. This practice is not seen as a betrayal but rather as a means of sharing their expertise in horse care and breeding, ensuring that the horses continue to be valued and well-treated in their new homes.
Emotionally, Catfolk can be quite expressive, often wearing their feelings on their sleeves. They communicate through a combination of verbal and non-verbal cues, using their tails and body language to convey emotions. Their strong sense of empathy allows them to connect deeply with others, both within and outside their tribes.
However, the history of being targeted by slavers has left its mark on their psychology. Some Catfolk may exhibit a wariness towards outsiders, making it essential for them to build trust gradually. Despite this, their resilience shines through, as they adapt and find joy in their nomadic lifestyle, celebrating their heritage and the beauty of the Horse Wilds.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Catfolk often find themselves the victims of raiding and slaver parties. Raiders target their herds of horses—gentle creatures bred for trade with other sentient species of the Silver Shores. Female Catfolk are especially prized among the decadent sultans of Zylistan, often taken as serving wenches or dancing girls, leading to a culture marked by wariness and caution towards outsiders..

Facial characteristics

Catfolk possess human-like facial features, including a pronounced brow and a mouth shaped similarly to a human's but filled with sharp teeth reminiscent of a cat’s. Their noses are cat-like, and large, pointed ears sit atop their heads, enhancing their keen sense of hearing. Their eyes are large and feline, featuring a vertical slit pupil surrounded by vibrant colors such as gold, green, or blue, allowing for excellent night vision.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

While the Horse Wilds is their primary habitat, Catfolk occasionally venture beyond its borders to trade their prized horses with merchants and traders from neighboring kingdoms. These interactions often lead to the establishment of temporary camps or trading posts where they can share their goods and knowledge.
In addition to trade, Catfolk have been known to become adventurers, often hired as guides and scouts by outside kingdoms. Their keen senses and intimate knowledge of the land make them invaluable allies for those exploring the wilds or seeking safe passage through unfamiliar territories.
However, the legacy of slavery has left its mark on Catfolk society. Many are wary of outsiders, stemming from centuries of being targeted by slavers from Zylistan, who prized Catfolk for their females as serving wenches and dancers. This history has fostered a cautious approach to new relationships, with trust being earned gradually. Some Catfolk remain protective of their communities, choosing to keep their interactions with outsiders limited and strategic.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Catfolk possess naturally heightened senses, granting them an acute awareness of their surroundings. Most exhibit exceptional sight, hearing, or smell—sometimes a combination of these traits. Their eyes, adapted for low-light conditions, allow them to see clearly in dim lighting or near-total darkness, making them adept hunters and scouts even at night. Their ears are finely tuned to detect subtle shifts in sound, from the whisper of movement in tall grass to the distant call of a predator. Some individuals, particularly those with a strong lineage of hunters or trackers, boast an extraordinary sense of smell, capable of identifying individuals by scent alone.
As a nomadic people, these senses are vital to their survival. They rely on keen sight to navigate unfamiliar terrain, sharp hearing to detect distant dangers, and acute smell to track game or recognize subtle changes in their environment. Silent communication through body language, ear flicks, and tail movements is common among hunting parties. Their natural vigilance makes them difficult to ambush, and their ability to detect shifts in the wind or the scent of rain helps them anticipate weather changes.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

A catfolk gets his name from his tribal chief.


Female Names: Typical examples for female names might be Kahla (ka la), Nayissa (nay eesa), Sharett (shar ett), Tyyanna (tie yana), Murr, Sall (saul), and Fayror (fay roar).
Male Names: Typical male name examples are Thunn (thuh un), Kuhnn (coon ), Brill (brah ill), Malekk (mal ek), Gonnd (gone nd), Nasharr (nash ar), Lordenn (lor den).

Catfolk do not have family or tribal names.

Beauty Ideals

In Catfolk culture, beauty is often associated with physical agility and vitality. Lithe and muscular forms are admired, reflecting strength and grace. Fur patterns and colors inspired by jungle cats are considered desirable, with those displaying rare markings or vibrant colors earning higher status. Additionally, expressive eyes and well-defined features, particularly large ears, are seen as signs of beauty, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of an individual.

Gender Ideals

Catfolk society places a strong emphasis on the roles of females as leaders and protectors. Females are revered not only for their physical prowess but also for their wisdom and ability to nurture. While males also contribute to the tribe's well-being, they often take on roles that support the matriarchs, such as hunters or gatherers. This balance creates a society where both genders are valued, but female leadership is celebrated and seen as essential to the tribe's survival and prosperity.

Courtship Ideals

Courtship among Catfolk involves displays of agility, strength, and skill. Males often showcase their prowess through hunting and physical feats to attract a mate. Traditional rituals may include competitive races or challenges to demonstrate worthiness. Females, while open to courtship, often take the lead in selecting their partners, valuing traits such as loyalty, intelligence, and the ability to contribute to the tribe. Gifts of handcrafted items or offerings of food can also play a role in courtship, signifying respect and admiration.

Relationship Ideals

Relationships among Catfolk are built on mutual respect and cooperation, with an emphasis on teamwork and shared responsibilities. Bonds are often deep and enduring, with an expectation that both partners will support each other in their roles within the tribe. Familial ties are strong, and extended families often live together, fostering a sense of community. Loyalty is paramount, and betrayal is viewed with great disdain. In matriarchal relationships, females often take the lead in decision-making, guiding their partners and families with wisdom and strength.

Average Technological Level

Catfolk possess a primitive technological level, relying primarily on natural resources to meet their needs. Their tools and weapons are crafted from stone, bone, and wood, demonstrating skillful craftsmanship and a deep understanding of their environment. They utilize simple but effective techniques for hunting, gathering, and foraging, often employing techniques passed down through generations. While they do not engage in advanced metallurgy or complex machinery, their ingenuity allows them to create functional items that aid in their nomadic lifestyle, such as woven baskets, durable clothing, and rudimentary shelters made from natural materials. Their technology is closely tied to their way of life, emphasizing sustainability and respect for the land they inhabit.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Catfolk primarily communicate in a complex language that combines a range of vocalizations—such as growls, hisses, roars, and purrs—with expressive body language, including tail movements, raised fur, and varied facial expressions. This intricate system of communication is unique to their culture and is not easily understood by other species, as it relies heavily on subtle nuances that convey meaning beyond words. While Catfolk are proficient in the common trade language, facilitating their horse trading and interactions with other races of the Silver Shores, their speech tends to be stilted and interspersed with their natural vocalizations, reflecting their cultural roots. Though they can learn the languages of other races, their attempts often retain elements of their native tongue, making their communication distinctive yet effective.

Common Etiquette Rules

In Catfolk society, etiquette is deeply rooted in respect for one another and the natural world. Greetings often involve specific vocalizations, such as soft purrs or low growls, accompanied by body language like a slight bow or a flick of the tail. Maintaining eye contact is important, as it demonstrates confidence and honesty, while averting one's gaze can be seen as a sign of submission or dishonesty.
When engaging in trade, especially for horses, Catfolk value fairness and transparency, often emphasizing the importance of open negotiation and mutual benefit. Sharing food or resources is a common gesture of goodwill, and it is customary for visitors to bring small offerings when entering a tribe’s territory as a sign of respect.
Hierarchy within the tribe influences etiquette as well; younger individuals are expected to show deference to elders and matriarchs, listening attentively and seeking guidance. Disputes are typically resolved through dialogue and consensus, reflecting their value of community harmony. Overall, Catfolk etiquette emphasizes kinship, respect, and a deep connection to the land and each other.*
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Common Dress Code

Catfolk typically dress in functional attire made from leather and furs, which provides both durability and comfort as they navigate their natural environment. In the expansive Horse Wilds, they often go barefoot, allowing for greater agility and connection to the earth. Their clothing tends to be loose-fitting, enabling freedom of movement while reflecting their nomadic lifestyle.
When venturing into less familiar or more hazardous environments, Catfolk adapt by wearing shoes or boots to protect their feet from potential dangers. These footwear choices are usually made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough terrain while still allowing for agility. Catfolk also embellish their attire with tribal markings or decorations made from beads and natural elements, signifying their identity and tribe while celebrating their connection to the land.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Catfolk culture is rich and vibrant, deeply intertwined with their nomadic lifestyle and the natural world around them. They celebrate their heritage through oral storytelling, passing down tales of their ancestors, legendary heroes, and the spirits of the land. These stories often emphasize themes of resilience, unity, and respect for nature, fostering a strong sense of identity among the tribes.
Artisan crafts play a significant role in Catfolk culture, with skills such as leatherworking and weaving being passed down through generations. Their crafts often incorporate intricate designs that reflect their connection to the flora and fauna of the Horse Wilds, showcasing their creativity and reverence for the environment.
Rituals and ceremonies are central to Catfolk life, marking important events such as coming-of-age, seasonal changes, and successful hunts. Music and dance are integral to these celebrations, with rhythmic drumming and melodic singing that echo the sounds of the wild. The Catfolk view their cultural heritage as a living tapestry, constantly evolving while maintaining deep-rooted traditions that honor their past and strengthen their bonds with each other and their surroundings

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

Catfolk customs are often centered around their deep connection to nature and the rhythm of the seasons. One notable tradition is the Festival of Whispers, held at the height of summer, where tribes gather to share stories and songs, honoring their ancestors and the spirits of the Horse Wilds. During this festival, participants paint their fur with natural dyes, representing the colors of the land and their personal stories, while engaging in dance and music that mimic the sounds of nature.
Another common custom is the Rite of the Trail, a coming-of-age ceremony for young Catfolk who reach the age of 15. This rite involves a journey through the Horse Wilds to find a unique natural object that resonates with their spirit. Upon returning, they present their find to the tribe, symbolizing their connection to the land and their readiness to assume adult responsibilities.
In daily life, Catfolk practice Hunting Feasts, where successful hunters share their bounty with the tribe. This custom reinforces community bonds and gratitude for the land’s gifts. As part of this feast, it is customary for the hunters to offer a portion of their catch to the spirits of the wild, seeking their blessing for future hunts.
Additionally, Catfolk have a tradition of Tales at Twilight, where, each evening, families gather to share stories and experiences from their day. This practice not only strengthens family ties but also serves as a means of teaching younger generations about their culture, history, and the lessons learned from their ancestors.

Common Taboos

In Catfolk society, certain taboos are strictly observed, reflecting their deep respect for nature, their community, and the horses they breed and tame. One significant taboo is the Harm of Nature, which prohibits the unnecessary destruction of plants and wildlife. Catfolk believe that every creature and plant has a spirit that contributes to the balance of the Horse Wilds. Hunting for sport or taking more than is needed for sustenance is considered a grave offense and can lead to ostracization from the tribe.
Another important taboo is the Mistreation of Horses, which is a deeply ingrained belief among Catfolk. Horses are not only prized companions and vital to their way of life but also seen as sacred creatures deserving of respect and care. Any act of cruelty, such as poorly taming them, neglecting their needs, or using them for exploitative purposes, is met with severe condemnation. Those found guilty of such mistreatment may be exiled from the tribe or face other significant consequences, as it is believed that harming these animals disrupts the natural balance and invites misfortune.
The Disrespect of Elders is also a serious taboo, where younger Catfolk are expected to show reverence to the tribe’s elders, who are seen as the keepers of knowledge and tradition. Disregarding their wisdom or openly challenging their authority is frowned upon, as it undermines the social structure and communal harmony.
The Taboo of the Silent Tail dictates that Catfolk must not hide or suppress their natural expressions. Since the tail is a vital means of communication, hiding it or binding it is seen as a sign of dishonesty or weakness. This belief reinforces the importance of authenticity and transparency within their society.
Finally, the Interference with Spirits is a significant taboo; Catfolk believe that meddling in the affairs of nature’s spirits, whether through disrespectful behavior or attempting to control them, can bring misfortune upon the tribe. This belief encourages Catfolk to live in harmony with the natural world and maintain a respectful distance from its mystical elements.

Common Myths and Legends

The Catfolk revere Serenna, the goddess of woodland folk, as their primary deity. Their legends narrate a beautiful tale of love and creation: it is said that Serenna fell deeply in love with Goldmane, the mighty Beast-King of the hunting cats. From their union, she birthed the first litter of beings who would eventually evolve into the Catfolk we know today.
As the centuries passed before recorded time, these primordial felines underwent transformation, adapting to their environment and becoming the agile, intelligent Catfolk. According to their cherished folk tales, it was Serenna herself who discovered the first tribe of Catfolk wandering the vast expanse of the Horse Wilds, on the brink of starvation and desperate to escape the slavers pursuing them.
With compassion and wisdom, she guided them, teaching them the art of survival. Serenna imparted the knowledge of how to defend themselves against their oppressors and how to embrace a nomadic lifestyle that honored the land and its resources. Under her guidance, the Catfolk learned to tame, breed, and raise the magnificent wild horses that still roam the savannah and tall grass, becoming both their companions and their lifeblood.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

The Catfolk have a long history marked by decades of attacks from slavers and raiders, leading them to become skittish and wary of outsiders. Trust is a scarce commodity, and it is said that to purchase a horse bred and raised by the Catfolk, one must undergo a series of superstitious tests and rituals designed to earn their trust.
Generally, Catfolk exhibit shy and nervous personalities, often keeping to themselves and avoiding interactions with those they do not know well. However, they tend to feel more at ease around Halflings, drawn to their gentle and affable nature. Despite their reserved demeanor, Catfolk can be quick to anger if they perceive a threat or injustice.
Their relationship with Elves is complicated. While they share a respect for nature and the wilds, the Catfolk are wary of Elven societies, often seeing them as aloof and disconnected from the struggles of nomadic life. Elves may view Catfolk with curiosity, admiring their agility and hunting skills, but this admiration is often overshadowed by the Catfolk’s distrust.
The Dwarves are seen as sturdy and reliable, but their industrial ways can clash with the Catfolk’s more harmonious lifestyle. While there is a mutual respect for craftsmanship and trade, Catfolk are cautious around Dwarven communities, fearing that their mining and forging activities may disrupt the delicate balance of the Horse Wilds.
With Humans, the relationship is fraught with tension. While some Humans are sympathetic to the plight of the Catfolk, many others come from the Sultanate of Zylistan, which has long preyed upon them for both horses and captives. This ongoing conflict has deepened the Catfolk's mistrust of Humans, viewing them as a potential threat, which complicates any opportunities for alliances.
Currently, the Catfolk are in a constant struggle to defend their lands and people from the slavers and marauders originating from the Sultanate of Zylistan, who continue to target them for their horses and capture their kin. This ongoing conflict has only deepened their mistrust of other races, further isolating them from potential alliances and friendships.

To create a Catfolk adventurer you can also use the homebrew template found in your D&D Beyond Campaign, or the statblock below.

by Generated by Malekoth using Image Creator from Microsoft Designer via Bing

A catfolk female.

by Generated by Malekoth using Image Creator from Microsoft Designer via Bing

A catfolk male.

Lifespan

Catfolk live to an average of 60 years, reaching adulthood at approximately 15 years of age.

Average Height

Full-Grown Catfolk men and women average a heaight of 5 and 5 1/2 feet tall.

Average Weight

Becuse of their slight builds the weight of Catfolk of both sexes range from 100 to 160 lbs.

Average Physique

Catfolk are lean, muscular, and lithe, combining agility and speed to navigate their environment effectively. Their physical form is designed for both endurance and quick movements, allowing them to thrive in the vast Horse Wilds.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The fur of Catfolk showcases a variety of colors and markings similar to those of jungle cats. Common variations include golden fur like that of a lion, sleek black like a panther, and the striking orange and yellow stripes of a tiger. Some may exhibit the unique spotted patterns of a cheetah, providing each individual with a distinctive appearance.

Discovered by

Serrenna