Savannah Cats: A Hybrid Domestic Cat
If you've already heard of a Bengal cat, a Chausie, or a Toyger, then let me introduce you to the Savannah Cat. This exotic cat breed has been accepted by the International Cat Association (TICA), as of 2002, and is a popular alternative to "ordinary" domesticated cats.
Savannah Cats are created by breeding a Serval (also known as an African Wild Cat) with a domestic cat with striking features, usually an Abyssinian. The end result is a larger than usual pet cat that looks wild, but is a wonderful family pet.
Features of this breed include the following:
- large, erect ears
- a long, slender torso, which belies its larger 20-30 pound size
- a short tail with black tip and rings
- a "Serval," wild-looking coat (acceptable colors include Brown Spotted Tabby, Silver Spotted Tabby, Black and Black Smoke)
- green eyes
- a long neck and elongated head
- so-called "tear streaks" of black from the corner of its eyes down to the sides of its nose
What Makes This Breed Unique?
Like other hybrid domestic cats, the Savannah cat is described as having dog-like characteristics. They enjoy playing fetch and walking on a leash. Savannah cats are exceedingly loyal, as well. Surprisingly, these cats love water... you don't have to convince them to take a bath. Some Savannahs will even go swimming.
The intelligent breed is strong, agile and energetic. In fact, its the largest domesticated cat breed, yet one of the easiest exotic hybrid breeds to care for. Because they are so playful, many believe they are excellent family pets, getting along with children and other pets.
Smart, loyal and stunningly beautiful - no wonder so many people are interested in adopting a Savannah Cat!
Of the hybrid cats recognized by TICA, the Savannah cat is the newest and most rare breed. In part, this is due to the difficulties in breeding a domestic cat with an African Serval. There are only a few breeders that have successfully produced litters of the exotic domestic cat. Perhaps not surprisingly, you'll have to invest if you wish to include a Savannah in your family.
Considerations
Cost
Probably the first question in your mind pertains to the cost. Yes, Savannah Cats are expensive, ranging in price from $1,000-$22,000, depending on the quality, sex of the animal and the number of generations away from the African Serval ancestor.
For example:
- F1 (approx. 50% Serval)
- F2 (approx. 30% Serval)
- F3 (approx. 15% Serval), etc. to F7 or more
There ARE Savannah Cat rescue websites (see below), from which you may find a lovely family pet at a much lower price.
Size
The closer in generations to the Serval, the larger the Savannah Cat. F1 and F2 males may be more than double the size of other domesticated cats. Their weight could reach up to 30 pounds. It will take up to three years for a Savannah kitten to grow to full size.
Diet and Veterinary Care
Just like any other house cat, your Savannah cat will enjoy high-quality cat food. There are no special diet considerations. Be sure to regularly vaccinate, as you would your other pets. Savannah cats can be litter box trained as well. And, they love to play, so be sure to consider some stimulating pet toys.
Legal Restrictions
Although it may be illegal to own a wild Serval, in most areas there are no legal restrictions against owning a Savannah Cat. It is considered to be a hybrid domestic cat. According to one breeder:
While strongly resembling the African Serval, Savannahs are bred to demonstrate domestic temperament and are classified as domestic cats by both the USDA and The International Cat Association.
Be sure to check your local regulations, however. Many areas limit the number of pets that can be kept legally, as well.
Could a Savannah Cat be Right for You?
As with any pet, be sure to consider the investment of time and money that will be required for your Savannah Cat. These animals can live up to 20 years and require love and attention, food and water, regular exercise and veterinary care.
Like other hybrid cat breeds, the intelligence and high energy level of a Savannah may be challenging... as well as rewarding! Take into account your living space and arrangements, including children and other pets. Many breeders warn against letting Savannahs outdoors if not on a leash.
Think about whether you want to purchase from a breeder, or perhaps look into foster care or adoption through a Savannah Cat rescue organization. NOTE: Because the breed is extremely popular, yet difficult to breed, most Savannah Cat breeders will carefully screen prospective buyers to make sure that their kittens go to appropriate, qualified homes.
Should you have the good fortune of matching up with a Savannah Cat, count yourself lucky. Its sure to be a unique and rewarding experience!
Comments
Savannah cat is a perect cat for everyone! Thanks to the article https://catspro.com/savannah-cat.html I made a right choice. I recommend reading it and buying a kitten immediately
Like no other hybrid or domestic cat. Such a wonderful personality. Never a sad day with my f2 male Savannah. Do your research on these hybrid cats they aren’t for everyone.
Not all of these cats are wonderful if they're related to the bengal. I'm not saying they can't be ADORABLE!!!!!! But you've been warned!
awsome savannah cats....they r so beautiful, thnx a lot 2 share it vith us nd the videos r also quiet intresting i jst luv cats!!!
These cats are soooo cool! And they play fetch and enjoy going on walks. Worth the money!!!
Nice hub. lovely cat. Thanks for such an interesting read. I am glad you shared this with us.
Beautiful cats, I've always wanted a Savannah cat, but at the moment since I already have two cats that's out of the question.
wow i am very interested by cat and i will be bay one cat to me
Oh they are so beautiful. Not a sight for a cat lover that has decided not to take a cat again as the death of our last cat broke our hearts and we are still not over it.
Wow they are such amazing looking cats, what an awesome breed to own.
I didn't even know these types of cats existed. I have always wanted a wild looking cat but never looked into these type of breed. Thanks for sharing!
What a gorgeous breed! I have always been a fan of Bengal cats and never knew much about the savannah breed. Now I want a savannah too!!
OH! How beautiful they are, and their features are amazing considering what their makeup is. Thank you for sharing info on the Savannah cat. I can't imagine a better cat than ours but these are stunning!
I own a Savannah and I must highly recommend this breed. I have never seen a more loyal, attentive, or loving cat and can only hope that others will someday experience what it is like to share a life with one of these amazing animals.
stephhicks68 — Glad I checked in on your articles again. The Savannah cats look surprisingly similar to my own Devon Rex cats (check out my hub on them for pictures). I see you've been busy writing; me, too. I've got an eclectic hubmix of 246 you might enjoy sampling. Regards, RickZ
I think Savannahs are so beautiful. I would love to have one, I hear they're pretty spendy, though. Anyway, great information here. I have 3 feline friends myself, can't imagine my life without a cat in it.
Thanks for this wonderful introduction to a gorgeous breed. I didn't know about the Savannah until now.
Loved the first video where, at the end, the poor frustrated cat simply decides to sit down and take a lick.
This cat lady really liked your hub.
Thanks for such an interesting read. I am glad you shared this with us.
stephhicks, WOW OMG what a great cat, I want one I love cats and these are so amazingly beautiful. Thanks and Peace :)
We currently have 5 cats ( 3 rescue kitties) and love them all to bits! What a great hub :D
Gorgeous cats! And maybe trainable, so "herding cats" won't be so difficult now?
Cool looking cat, very wild appearance. I recently did an article (on another site) about the Himalayan (mix of a persion and Siamese). Beautiful cat, if you can take all the fluffy hair in your house.
Wife and I are cat lovers here - four of 'em. One is a beautiful bengal!
Wow what a lovely looking cat! Thanks for posting!
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