The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is an atypical member of the cat family (Felidae) that's unique in its speed, while lacking climbing abilities. The species is the only living member of the genus Acinonyx. It is the fastest land animal, reaching speeds between Although according to Cheetah, Luke Hunter and Dave Hamman, (Struik Publishers, 2003), pp. 37–38, the cheetah's fastest recorded speed was . in short bursts covering distances up to, and has the ability to accelerate from 0 to in thre… (More on Cheetahs)