The Super Savannah Cat Breed

Savannah Cat Breed

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability 100% 100%
Intelligence 100% 100%
Hair Shedding 60% 60%

Affectionate 90% 90%
Ease of Grooming 40% 40%
Child Friendly 80% 80%

Playful Energy 100% 100%
Pet Friendly 100% 100%
Stranger Friendly 100% 100%

Table of Contents

The Savannah cat breed is a fairly new breed of shorthaired cat, who is very affectionate, and outgoing. This is a tall lean graceful cat with striking dark spots and other bold markings. The domestic breed resembles its ancestral roots, the African serval, but is smaller in size.

However, it is one of the largest domesticated breeds of cats, with males sometimes reaching as much as 30lb.

The Savannah is a very affectionate, and outgoing cat with a very long neck legs and big ears. They are an active, and confident cat who enjoys interacting with people and other cats. Highly intelligent and curious, this kitty is always looking for something interesting to do, and causing trouble.

This cat does best with someone who is able to spend time playing with kitty, and interacting with her.

History

The first known Savannah cat did not appear until 1986 when a kitten sired by a serval African wild cat, and carried to term by a domestic female cat. This was accomplished by Judee Frank, who produced the first Savannah by crossing male Serval with a female Siamese cat.

This first breeded kitten was named Savannah, from where the cat breed gets its name.

Patrick Kelly, a cat breeder, heard about the Savannah and decided he wanted to try to develop a new cat breed. He managed to convince Joyce Stroufe, another cat breeder, to help him develop this breed.

Each generation of a Savannah cat is designated by a filial number. F1 generation cats are 50% domestic, and 50% serval and are very hard to produce due to the significant difference in the gestation period between the serval and domestic cat.

F1 and F2 cats are usually the largest, due to their stronger genetic influence of their serval ancestors. Most first generation Savannahs will retain almost all of the serval’s exotic looking traits, which diminish in later generations.

Appearance

The coat of the Savannah will vary enormously, dependent on the breed of the domestic cross. However, the spotted pattern is the only one that is accepted breed standard since it is the only one patter that is found on the African Serval cat.

The Savannah cat does come in several different colors and patterns. Black, brown, black sliver spotted tabby, black smoke, or black spotted tabby colors are common. They stand out for their bold, solid markings, which can be round, oval or elongated. It is possible for some of these cats to have a marble pattern.

The Savannah cat typically has a triangular head that is supported by a long lean neck, and framed by large, wide ears. The back legs are slightly longer than the front legs, giving this cat a unique posture. The wild look is related to its Serval origins with their long, almost rangy and long bodies.

They have medium sized eyes that can be of almost any color. Kittens are born with blue eyes, but these gradually develop into green, brown, gold, or even a mix, as they grow up. It takes this cat about 3 years to reach its full adult size.

Personality

The Savannah cat breed has amazing traits and a remarkable personality. They are very affectionate and almost have the same loyalty qualities of a dog. Don’t be surprised if kitty endlessly follows you around the house. This is a very curious, and assertive cat that seeks out adventure.

The Savannah is a very active and adventurous feline that require a lot of patience to live with. Your Savannah kitty will need lots of attention, and I you don’t give it willingly, she will figure out ways to get your attention.

These cats are notoriously intelligent, and are very quick to solve puzzles, and figure out how to open just about anything. You may need to change your sink faucet style to prevent from turning on the water. You will also need to childproof your drawers to keep them out of your clothes and possessions.

Because they have such long hind legs, jumping does not present a problem for them and they enjoy leaping on and off high obstacles in the house. Be sure to put breakables where the Savannah kitty can’t knock them over.

The Savannah is a very active cat that needs lots of stimulation and interaction either with its human companions, or a companion cat. They are very loyal, and bond strongly with their human family. This kitty is not a lap cat, but will show affection by giving head butts.

Due to their serval background, these cats love to play in water and enjoy splashing about as much as a dog does. Also, they can be trained to walk on a leash with a harness.

Health

All pedigreed cats are prone to specific health problems. This is generally a very healthy breed of cat, although some vets have noted that they sometimes inherit the smaller livers of their Serval ancestors, which needs to be watched, especially as they get older.

However, the consequences of a smaller liver is small and is likely of little concern.

Grooming and Care

The coat of the Savannah is short and sleek and will need only the minimum amount of grooming to remove any loose hairs. Weekly brushings will keep kitty’s coat shiny, and luxurious. It will also help to minimize dust bunnies, and hairballs around the house.

The Savannah will eat most good quality brands of cat food, whereas some breeders say that they require a high quality diet with little grain or by-products. Some recommend a high proportion of fresh meat with at least 30% protein.

This cat needs toys that will withstand rough play, and interactive games that will keep her mentally stimulated. If you are away for the day, its best to provide your Savannah with a companion. Savannahs do get along with other cats or dogs, especially if raised with them. Otherwise, a period of adjustment will be needed to introduce the new pet.

If you are getting another cat, Savannahs do best with breeds who have similar personalities.

Abyssinians, Siamese, or more laid back cats such as Maine Coons, Ragdolls, or domestic shorthairs are a good companion choice. This cat needs a lot of vertical space. Savannah cats love to climb, so be sure to provide them with tall cat trees and window perches.

Some cities or states have laws against keeping hybrid or exotic animals. These cats are considered to be domesticated, but a first or second generation Savannah may face restrictions. Check your local laws before considering buying one of these unique cats

Savannah Cat Breed Summary

The Savannah cat breed is intense with everything that they do from loving their owner, playing, or getting into trouble. They have a very inquisitive nature, want to know everything that is going on, and are perfectly capable of making their way past closed doors and get into rooms or cupboards that look potentially interesting.

If you are looking for a calm, and quiet cat to sit in your lap, then you need to look elsewhere. The Savannah cat is a highly intelligent, playful, and loving cat that does require a lot of interaction and attention on a daily basis.