A team of scientists on Wednesday presented a unique insight into the ferocious sabre-toothed cat Smilodon's most eminent feature i. e. its dagger-like upper canine teeth.

The team for the study used highly sophisticated X-ray imaging and an analysis of oxygen isotopes in the cat's tooth enamel.

Paleontologist Z. Jack Tseng of the American Museum of Natural History in New York said, "If you think about it, Smilodon fatalis likely left their paw prints on what is today Hollywood Boulevard long before Marilyn Monroe left her hand prints at the Chinese Theatre".

Researchers after conducting the research determined that the creature's canines grew at a rate, which is twice the rate of those of today's African lions.

The study looked at Smilodon fatalis, one of three species of this cat, and used the remains from the La Brea Tar Pits, a treasure trove of Ice Age fossils including those of mammoths, mastodons, wolves, ground sloths, bison and camels.

The team studying a big cat's found that the Smilodon was at least three years old before its canines were fully grown. The upper canines of the creature are curved and serrated, and can grew up to 18cm long.

Smilodon used its upper canines as a weapon. Paleontologist Robert Feranec of the New York State Museum said it is believed that the animals used its dagger-like teeth to bite the neck and sever crucial arteries and veins to kill prey quickly.

Researchers said that the animal was about the size of a modern lion or tiger but it weighed more. With its heavily built structure the animal had a stiffer back, powerful limbs and a stubby tail.

Dr. Tsseng described it as a lion on steroids with knives coming out of its mouth. It became extinct nearly 10,000 years ago, said researchers.