The rusty-spotted genet (Genetta maculata), also known as large-spotted genet and blotched genet, is a widespread species of African genet. Genets are small cat-like carnivores in the Viverridae family, which is closely related to the mongoose family. Both viverrids and mongooses are distantly related to cats.

The rusty-spotted genet is very similar to the common genet (Genetta genetta) but has markedly larger spots and no crest along the spine which is commonly found on other genet species. In South Africa it can be confused with the closely related Cape genet (Genetta tigrina), which is typically darker (especially the limbs are markedly darker), as well as having more sparsely distributed black spots on the body. The two species only overlap in southern KwaZulu-Natal. Colour varies between regions, but rusty-spotted genets are typically yellowish-grey and spots are rust-coloured to black. Markings are fainter in drier areas and more prominent in moister areas. As other genets, it has a long slender body, a long tail, and short legs. There is little variation between sexes. Body length averages 49-60 cm (19-24 in) and the tail 42-50 cm (16.5-21.3 in). Weight averages 1.82 kg (4 lb).