5th Edition Catfolk

MONVESIA RETCON NOTE:  With the release of Mythic Odysseys of Theros, to idea of this post is made somewhat obsolete.  For one, the Leonin, divided between Tabaxi and Rakasta below, are now represented by their own race.  For the needs of Monvesia, the Leonin from Theros will be used to represent the Rakasta of Prace, while the Tabaxi from Volo's Guide will be used for the Raviqi catfolk. 

Volo's Guide to Monsters presented our first taste of catfolk in 5th edition Dungeons & Dragons.  However, it only gave us one of several catfolk that have populated the game:  the Tabaxi.  While similar to other options from the game, such as rakasta, the tabaxi are optimized to a particular style of play.  Using the traits of the tabaxi as a baseline, we can explore some of the game's other catfolk--as well as those of other popular games.

To play an alternate catfolk subrace, disregard the features identified below as being specific to the tabaxi. Instead, apply the traits of your chosen subrace.

Tabaxi

Tabaxi typically resemble leopards and jaguars.  They are friendly and nimble hunters.

In Monvesia, these are the Parrsasca.  These are the female Leonin of Magic: the Gathering. 

Ability Increase:  +1 Charisma
Natural Climber:  You have a climb Speed of 20 ft.
Naturally Observant:  You have proficiency in the Perception skill.

Rakasta

Rakasta often resemble lions, tigers, and black panthers.  They are an aggressive, powerful race.

In Monvesia, these are the Asranasca and Qapranasca; in the Nefret campaign, these are the Sekhmites. These are the male Leonin of Magic: the Gathering; these stats can also be used for the Charr from Guild Wars.

Ability Increase:  +1 Strength
Panther’s Maw: You have a bite attack that deals 1d6 + Strength modifier piercing damage. Whenever you attack with your claws, you may also attack with your bite without penalty. On a successful hit with a bite attack, you may attempt to grapple your opponent.
Mighty Roar: You have proficiency in the Intimidation skill. Once per long rest, you may roar during an Intimidation check to gain advantage.

Fast Runners (aka. Cheetahfolk)

Fast runners typically resemble cheetahs.  As their name implies, they are a fleet of foot.

In Monvesia, these are the Cjicasca.

Ability Increase:  +1 Constitution
Naturally Athletic: Your base speed increases to 40 ft.  You also have proficiency in the Athletics skill.

Lynxfolk

Lynxfolk often resemble lynxes and bobcats.  They are a sturdy race capable of surviving in harsh conditions.

In Monvesia, these were the Vasjacasca.

Ability Increase: +1 Constitution
Thick Fur:  Your thick fur grants you resistance to cold damage.
Survivor:  You have proficiency in the Survival skill.

Moggies

Moggies typically resemble domestic, feral, and wild cats.  They are stereotypes as thieves and vagabonds.

In Monvesia, these are the Zyrrndasca; in the Nefret campaign, these are the Bastites.  These stats can also be used for the Khajiit from Elder Scrolls.

Ability Increase:  +1 Charisma
Cat's Grace:  You are proficient in the Acrobatics skill.  Furthermore, you only take half damage when falling 60 ft or less; at the end of any fall, you will land on your feet after such a fall if you succeed at a Dexterity Save (DC 10 + 1 per 10 ft of fall).

OPTIONAL:  Lynxfolk and moggies can also be further distinguished from other catfolk by changing their size to small.  While this is not a trait that I am willing to apply to these subraces, it would offer them another level of plausible distinction.

Edited March 14, 2018; July 24, 2020.