Why is the biological distinction that civets are not felines important when assessing their meat?

Answer

General assumptions about meat derived from members of the cat family may not accurately apply.

The biological fact that civets, despite their appearance and common name, are not felines but belong to the Viverridae family carries significant implications for assessing their meat. Because they are not true cats, any pre-existing assumptions, expectations, or preparation guidelines generally applied to meat derived from the cat family might not accurately reflect the actual properties, texture, or safety profile of civet meat. This distinction necessitates specific consideration rather than relying on generalizations based on outward similarity.

Why is the biological distinction that civets are not felines important when assessing their meat?
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