It differs in colouring and length of hair in relation to its habitat, the pelage being shorter and paler in savannah-type habitat, and longer and darker (more yellow) in forest habitat. The guard hairs at the base of the spatula are round, or very slightly ovoid, which is unique among genets.
The appearance of this animal differs depending on its surroundings, with shorter, paler fur in open savannahs and longer, darker coats in denser forests. A unique feature is that the guard hairs at the base of the spatula are rounded or slightly egg-shaped.