Tradition: Chinese Mythology
Alternative Names: 狡 (Jiǎo)
Category: Cat
The Myth
The Huan is a strange mythical wildcat described in the Classic of Mountains and Seas. It has a single eye and three tails, giving it an unusual appearance unlike that of an ordinary feline. Its body resembles a wildcat, and its peculiar features distinguish it from other supernatural beasts.
The Huan inhabits the region of Mount Zhangwei, near the waters of the Western Sea. It is capable of producing many different kinds of sounds, despite its strange feline form. Its fur and unusual body are associated with a remarkable protective property: wearing its skin is said to protect a person against evil forces and cure jaundice. This makes the Huan not only an extraordinary creature but also a source of supernatural protection.
Sources
“Khuan.” New Bestiary (Bestiary.us). Accessed October 12, 2026. https://www.bestiary.us/khuan/en