The Savannah cat is an exotic, wild-looking domestic cat breed that is a cross between a serval (a wild African cat) and a domestic cat. With their striking appearance, impressive agility, and playful nature, Savannah cats are highly sought after by cat enthusiasts. These cats are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and energetic personalities, making them stand out from typical house cats. However, they also come with specific care requirements that potential owners must be aware of.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about owning and caring for a Savannah cat.

What is a Savannah Cat?

The Savannah cat was first bred in the 1980s by crossing a serval with a domestic cat, usually an Egyptian Mau, Bengal, or Oriental Shorthair. These hybrid cats retain much of the serval’s wild traits, including their tall, lean build, large ears, and striking coat patterns.

Savannah cats are categorized into generations, which describe how far removed they are from their serval ancestor. The first generation (F1) has a serval parent, while the second generation (F2) has a serval grandparent, and so on. Generally, F1 and F2 Savannahs exhibit more serval-like behavior and physical traits, while later generations (F3, F4, etc.) resemble domestic cats more closely.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Savannah cats are among the largest domestic cat breeds. F1 and F2 Savannahs can reach up to 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder, with a body length of around 20 to 25 inches.
• Weight: Their weight ranges from 12 to 25 pounds, with males typically being larger than females.
• Coat: Savannah cats have a short coat with spots and stripes, reminiscent of their serval heritage. Their coat colors can range from gold and silver to black and brown.
• Lifespan: Savannah cats typically live between 12 to 20 years, depending on their care and health.

Are Savannah Cats Good Pets?

Savannah cats can make wonderful pets, but they are not suitable for everyone. Their wild ancestry means they have certain traits that differ from your average house cat.

Pros:

• Highly Intelligent: Savannah cats are incredibly smart and can be taught to walk on a leash, fetch, and even perform tricks.
• Affectionate: While they may have a wild look, Savannah cats are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. They can be quite loyal and affectionate.
• Active and Playful: These cats love to climb, jump, and explore. They’re full of energy and are always looking for new things to investigate or play with.
• Exotic Appearance: With their long legs, large ears, and sleek spotted coats, Savannah cats are striking and elegant, resembling a miniature wildcat.

Cons:

• High Energy Levels: Savannah cats are extremely active and require a lot of physical and mental stimulation. If they don’t get enough exercise, they may become bored and engage in destructive behaviors.
• Not Ideal for Small Homes: Due to their size and energy levels, Savannah cats do best in larger homes with plenty of space to run, jump, and explore.
• Expensive: Savannah cats, especially F1 and F2 generations, can be quite costly. Their price reflects their exotic heritage and the challenges involved in breeding them.
• Wild Traits: Early-generation Savannahs (F1 and F2) retain more of their wild serval traits, which can make them more challenging to care for compared to later generations.

Savannah Cat Care Guide

1. Housing and Environment

Savannah cats are highly active animals that need plenty of space to roam and play. They are not suited for small apartments or homes with limited space.

• Space: These cats need a large, enriched environment where they can climb, jump, and explore. Tall cat trees, shelves, and climbing structures are essential to keep them entertained.
• Outdoor Access: Savannah cats can benefit from supervised outdoor access, either through a secure cat enclosure or on a leash. Never let them roam freely outside, as they may wander far from home and are at risk of being stolen or hurt.
• Interactive Toys: Provide plenty of toys that encourage hunting, climbing, and chasing. Interactive toys and puzzles will help keep their minds stimulated.

2. Diet

Savannah cats have higher energy needs than typical domestic cats, so their diet should reflect their active lifestyle.

• High-Quality Protein: A diet rich in high-quality animal protein is essential. Many owners feed a raw or premium wet food diet, supplemented with dry food that is grain-free and high in protein.
• Hydration: Savannah cats should have access to fresh water at all times. Wet food can also help with hydration.
• Frequency of Feeding: Because they are so active, Savannah cats benefit from multiple small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals.

3. Exercise and Enrichment

Savannah cats are known for their high energy levels and need plenty of stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

• Playtime: Set aside time each day for interactive play with your Savannah cat. Use toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and balls to engage their hunting instincts.
• Climbing: Provide vertical space like cat trees or shelves, as Savannah cats love to climb. This helps them burn energy and keeps them mentally stimulated.
• Leash Training: Many Savannah cat owners train their cats to walk on a leash, which can be a great way to provide exercise and explore the outdoors safely.

4. Handling and Bonding

Savannah cats are social creatures and often form strong bonds with their owners. However, they are also independent and can be selective about affection.

• Early Socialization: Like any pet, Savannah cats should be socialized from a young age. Handling them frequently as kittens will help them become more accustomed to people and reduce skittishness.
• Affectionate but Independent: While Savannah cats are affectionate and enjoy interacting with their owners, they also value their independence. They may seek attention when they want it but can also be aloof at times.

5. Health and Veterinary Care

Savannah cats are generally healthy, but they can suffer from some of the same issues as other domestic cats.

• Regular Checkups: Annual veterinary checkups are essential for keeping your Savannah cat healthy. Ensure that your vet is familiar with exotic breeds.
• Common Health Issues:
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Like many cat breeds, Savannahs can be prone to HCM, a heart condition.
  • Dental Health: Provide regular dental care, either through professional cleanings or dental treats and toys that help reduce tartar buildup.
• Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention: Ensure your Savannah cat is up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention, just like any other domestic cat.

6. Grooming

Savannah cats have a short coat that requires minimal grooming.

• Brushing: Brush their coat once a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny.
• Nail Trimming: Regularly trim your Savannah cat’s nails to prevent overgrowth and reduce scratching.

Legal Considerations for Owning a Savannah Cat

Before bringing a Savannah cat into your home, check local laws regarding exotic pet ownership. In some places, owning an F1 or F2 Savannah cat may be restricted or require special permits due to their wild heritage. Some states and municipalities have regulations about keeping hybrid animals.

• Legal Restrictions: In states like New York and Massachusetts, F1 and F2 Savannah cats are prohibited, while later generations are allowed. Always verify the laws in your area before purchasing a Savannah cat.

Are Savannah Cats Easy to Take Care Of?

Savannah cats require more care and attention than your average house cat. Their high energy levels, need for mental stimulation, and independent personalities mean they are best suited to experienced pet owners who have the time and space to meet their needs. However, they are generally low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and health.

How Much Does a Savannah Cat Cost?

Savannah cats are one of the more expensive cat breeds due to their exotic lineage. The price depends on the generation (F1, F2, etc.) and quality of the breeder.

• F1 Savannah Cat: $10,000 to $25,000
• F2 Savannah Cat: $5,000 to $12,000
• F3 and later generations: $1,000 to $5,000

The higher the percentage of serval genes, the more expensive the cat will be.

Conclusion: Is a Savannah Cat Right for You?

Savannah cats are stunning, intelligent, and unique pets, but they are not for everyone. Their high energy levels, independent nature, and the need for ample space and stimulation make them best suited for experienced cat owners who can dedicate time and effort to their care. If you’re prepared for the challenge, a Savannah cat can be a loyal and captivating companion with a wild side.