This creature (Cactifelinus inebrius) is one of the "Fearsome Critters" of North American pioneer folklore, along with the kickle snifter and the squonk.

The cat is said to inhabit desert regions. It has thorns instead of fur, the longest ones growing off of its ears. Its tail splits in two, and it has long, sharp, blades of bone on its forearms. It uses these blades to cut open cacti to get at the sap, which it lets ferment, and then drinks. Once intoxicated, it runs around maniacally, letting out heart-rending caterwauls.