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Although very similar to a cat, Hoplophoneus is in order of mammalian carnivores that is called Nimravidae (more commonly referred to as the ‘false sabre-toothed cats). However, its sabre teeth and cat-like physique can be confusing or misleading.
Similarly to Smilidon, a sabre toothed cat which preceded it, Hoplophoneus had long canine teeth, which it used to attack its prey in the back of the neck, causing blood flow to cease. Hoplophoneus had short powerful legs, that allowed it to accelerate to its maximum speed exceptionally quickly. However, its top speed was not as fast as another animal that followed it, Dinictis, another carnivorous Nimravidae. Therefore, it's theorized Hoplophoneus may have been more of an ambush type hunter.
Hoplophoneus may have hunted in packs, feasting on the abundance of Oreodonts and other herbivores that lived at the time. It is also believed that families of Hoplophoneus lived together, as remains of several of the animals have been discovered along side each other.
