LargeUSA

Savannah Cat

"The Savannah cat is a fascinating hybrid breed, captivating with its wild appearance and athletic build. Highly intelligent, curious, and energetic, it makes for a demanding companion. Those seeking adventure and a deep bond will find in this extraordinary breed an impressive and loyal partner for life."

Your Height:

180 cm

Shoulder Height: 38 cm

Age12-20 years

Average life expectancy with species-appropriate husbandry and good health.

Body Length

50-90cmBack Height: 30-45cm

Body length from nose to base of the tail.

Weight6-11 kg

Ideal body weight for a healthy, adult breed.

Cost/Month€110+

The sum of food, insurance, and basic care per month.

Character Profile

Activity Level

A measure of the daily urge to move and the necessary mental stimulation.

Extremely high energy, requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Affection Level

How cuddly and attached the breed is – some cats constantly seek physical contact, others are more aloof.

Very loyal and forms strong bonds with its owners.

Independence

How well the cat can cope on its own. Independent breeds need less attention.

Has an independent character and enjoys exploring on its own.

Family Friendliness

Describes patience and adaptability when dealing with children and family bustle.

Well-socialized cats are sociable, but often quite boisterous.

Beginner Friendly

Indicates how well the breed is suited for first-time owners without much experience.

Not recommended for beginners due to its unique personality.

Apartment Friendly

Considers space requirements, the general need for rest, and how well the cat can cope with indoor living.

Needs plenty of space, a secured outdoor enclosure is ideal.

Grooming Effort

Time required for brushing, bathing, and nail care. Long-haired breeds often need daily care.

Very short coat, requires almost no manual grooming.

Shedding

How much loose hair the breed loses in the house. Important for allergy sufferers and cleaning effort.

Sheds only moderately, very easy to maintain.

Vocalization

How talkative the breed is. Some cats meow frequently and loudly, while others are rather quiet.

Communicates actively, but is not excessively loud.

Did you know?

Keeping a pet of this size costs over 80€ per month on average. Plan your finances wisely.

Character & Training

Savannahs are highly intelligent, curious, and active cats that require mental challenges. Their temperament is often compared to that of a dog; they enjoy fetching and are frequently very trainable. They are loyal yet independent, actively encouraging their owners to engage with them. Consistent, loving training is important as they can be very active and sometimes boisterous. They need space to climb and play to channel their energy healthily. Due to their high intelligence, they are not suitable for owners looking for a quiet lap cat.

Living & Exercise

Keeping a Savannah cat requires ample space and an environment that supports their high energy levels. They are not suited to strictly indoor life; a secured outdoor enclosure or a cat-proofed garden is essential for their well-being. Climbing structures and interactive toys must be a daily staple to prevent boredom. They enjoy the presence of their family but also need room to explore. A varied territory offering both vertical and horizontal paths is ideal for these active animals. They generally get along well with other pets after a proper introduction.

Health & Grooming

Savannah cats are considered robust and long-lived, partly due to the influence of their serval heritage. Coat maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional brushing. There are no overwhelming breed-specific genetic disorders, but owners should prioritize a high-quality diet. Especially in early generations (F1-F3), metabolism can be sensitive, necessitating specialized food. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential for a long life. Overall, the cat is very healthy, provided it receives sufficient exercise and appropriate care.

History

The Savannah cat originated in the 1980s in the USA as a cross between a domestic cat and an African serval. The goal was to breed a domestic cat with the exotic, wild appearance of the serval, but the gentle temperament of a domesticated animal. The first Savannah, named 'Savannah', was born in 1986. Over the years, the breed has been continuously developed and officially recognized by various associations, such as TICA. Today, generations (F1 to F5) denote how close the cat is to its wild ancestor. Their history is defined by the fascination with the untamed in a domestic setting.

Similar Breeds

Based on character, activity level, and grooming needs – not by appearance.

Bengal cat

The Bengal cat is a fascinating, wild-looking companion with the heart of a domestic cat. Known for its stunning spotted coat and immense energy, it brings excitement to any home. Intelligent, adventurous, and eager for active interaction with its favorite humans – a true dream for dedicated cat lovers.

To Breed Portrait→

Abyssinian

The Abyssinian captivates with its elegant, wildcat-like appearance and irrepressible temperament. As an intelligent, curious companion, it loves to explore its surroundings. This lively breed is perfect for people seeking an interactive cat that thrives on plenty of play and attention at the heart of family life.

To Breed Portrait→

Somali

Often called the 'long-haired Abyssinian', the Somali is a fascinating, highly intelligent, and athletic breed. With her wild cat-like appearance and lively, playful nature, she enriches any active home. Those seeking an interactive, affectionate, and adventurous companion will quickly fall in love with the Somali.

To Breed Portrait→