The average life span in captivity is 12 to 15 years. Gestation is approximately 66 days. A female may have up to two litters a year with two to four young in each. Genets mature in 2 years. Adults are solitary except during periods of courtship.

The Rusty Spotted Genet is native to most of Africa excluding the rain forests. Although cat like in appearance and behaviors, they are not a cat at all. Their closest relative is the mongoose. Genets are mainly nocturnal but are often spotted during the day in the rainy season.