Females are polyestrous, with an average cycle of twelve days. Fertility lasts for one to three days. Breeding occurs throughout the year. A peak birth season has been noted during March through June. Gestation lasts 90 to 95 days. The number of young born can be one to eight, but is usually three to five. At birth cubs are on average 11.8 inches long and weigh 0.6 pounds. They are gray in color and have a mantle of mane-like hair along their back. It has been postulated that this mantle helps camouflage the cubs in the grass. The mantle begins to disappear at three months, but may still be seen at 2 years of age. During the first few weeks of life the cubs are moved every few days by their mother to avoid predators. The mother must leave the cubs alone to hunt, and during these times cubs often fall victim to predators. Infant mortality rates may be as high as 90%, with a majority being killed by lions. Cubs begin to follow their mother at 6 weeks of age. Cubs are weaned at three to six months. They usually remain with their mother for 13 to 20 months, during which time she teaches them to hunt. Sexual maturity is reached at 2 years of age.

Range number of offspring: 1 to 8.

Average number of offspring: 3.7.

Range gestation period: 90 to 95 days.

Range weaning age: 120 to 150 days.

Average birth mass: 489 g.

Average number of offspring: 3.

Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (male)

Sex: male: 456 days.

Average age at sexual or reproductive maturity (female)

Sex: female: 456 days.

Parental Investment: altricial ; extended period of juvenile learning