The Civets are the best known of the family classed as the Viverridae
which comprises not only the two kinds of Civets—the African and the
Indian Civet—but the Mangousts, the Genets and many small relatives. The
Civets are the largest of this family, although they are not often
larger than a Fox. For many years they were very popular, because of the
perfume which they furnish and which bears their name. This is secreted
in small glands which pour it into a double pouch. Since musk has become
better known, the use of the Civet has been less popular, but at one
time it formed a valuable article of trade. Each year Africa and India
exported to Europe large quantities which was used in medicine and
perfumery.
The Indian Civet inhabits not only the Indian Continent, but also the
neighboring islands. It differs from the African Civet in having a
longer and rougher coat. Both are fawn-colored, marked with stripes or
brown spots.