The giant panda is known in China as the 'large cat-bear', an apt title as it combines the soft features of a cat with the profile and body-shape of a bear. It sits on the ground when feeding, like a bear does; but on the other hand, its muzzle is more flattened than a bear's and its ears are short and rounded.

The giant panda's black and white markings make it one of the most distinctive of mammals: black ears and eyespots, with a black stole around its shoulders that extends down to its forepaws, and matching black leggings. Its white tail is short and, like the white on its back and belly, is often a soiled cream colour. Within its natural environment (the deep forests and, at upper elevations, snows and rocks), its mottled coloring provides a camouflage. There is also speculation that its striking color pattern may be a clear message to other pandas to stay away since the giant panda is an extremely solitary animal.