This is a rear view of the two skulls, showing the difference between brain development in Dinaelurus illumina as compared to its ancestor, D. crassus.
D. illumina has the human-equivalent mental capability required for self-awareness and language.

Although D. illumina's brain is not as large as as homo sapiens', it is more efficiently packaged and organized in order to make better use of the smaller volume. There is a constraint on how large the cranium can get in a felid before it starts interfering with jaw action and bite strength.

On a percentage basis of brain/body weight, D. illumina is close to humans.