SAVANNAH CAT INFORMATION
Savannah Cat Size
As breeders we almost always get asked how big our kittens will turn out to be. It is very hard for breeder to accurately give you an exact weight or height, but we can always give you a general idea.
Savannah's have a tall slim build that give them the appearance of a greater size than what they may actually weigh.
Size is usually dependent on the generation and sex of the feline. F1 & F2 generations usually are the largest as they have the most genetic influence of their African Serval ancestor. Like most cat breeds, males tend to be a bit larger than the females.
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SBT stands for Stud Book Traditional.
SBT is bred down from the Serval but it is at least 4 Generations removed.
While many Savannahs F1 through F5 are diluted with blood of domestic house cats. The SBT Savannah is a “pure” Savannah that has guaranteed only Savannahs as parents for at least 3 Generations.
Only SBT level cats may be entered into TICA (The International Cat Association) shows. SBT starts at the F4 generation and usually ends at F8.
Savannah Cat Generations
F1 generation: These Savannahs are 50% serval and 50% domestic cat. Because F1 Savannahs have a full serval parent, they tend to be more expensive than other types, costing up to $25,000. Their behavior and personalities are also the least domesticated of all of the generations, and they are generally less affectionate with their owners than later generations.
These are the biggest Savannahs, weighing as much as 25 pounds and standing 16 to 18 inches tall. Due to their large size and wilder natures, F1 Savannahs may not make good pets for families with children or small pets.
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F2 generation: These Savannahs have one serval grandparent, so they are 25% serval and 75% domestic cat. F2 Savannahs resemble F1s in size and temperament, but they are somewhat more affordable, and tend to be more affectionate with their owners.
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F3 generation: These Savannahs have one serval great-grandparent. This generation is closer to a domestic cat in size and temperament than the F1s and F2s. They weigh up to 20 pounds and stand approximately 17 inches tall. F3 Savannahs are friendly companions while retaining their wild appearance.
F4 + generation: If you're a novice Savannah owner, many breeders recommend starting with an F3 cat. Later generations, such as F4 Savannahs, can also make excellent pets. F4 through F8 Savannah cats tend to be similar to the F3s in personality and size, even though they're less influenced by serval genes.
The Savannah cat’s parentage will also impact its fertility. A female Savannah is generally fertile from the F1 generation. However, a male cat may not be fertile until the F6 generation.
The Desired Savannah Look
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These cats have a long lean appearance with legs that are longer than the average domestic cat. The head can be small in proportion to the body with a nose that protrudes slightly.
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The neck is long and the ears are wide with rounded tops.
The ears are positioned high on the head and present with ocelli markings that are usually highly desirable as unique.
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Eye markings are distinct and tear duct lines are visible. The eyes are usually almond shape which creates the visual line that slopes towards the nose.
Their coat is short and slightly coarse with the spots usually feeling slightly softer.
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Savannah's come in multiple colors, including black, brown spotted tabby, black silver spotted tabby, and black smoke and even white (snow).
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Personality of the Savannah Cats
Savannah cats require more activity and care than some other breeds. They're easily bored and have lots of energy, so they need ample amounts of mental and physical activity to keep them entertained and fit. Regular enrichment activities can include:
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Playing with interactive toys
Regular play sessions with their owners
Trick training
Walks outside on a harness and leash
Due to their Serval ancestry, many Savannah cats enjoy playing in water and can use kiddie pools to cool off in the heat. They also love to jump, so provide cat trees and other climbing opportunities to allow them to exercise their athletic talents.
Some Savannah cats even learn to play fetch like a dog and run on a wheel.
Savannah cats often enjoy outdoor walks on a leash or time in a safe "catio" enclosure, but they should never be left outside to roam free without supervision, these cats are not the type to explore and come back home. Because of their ancestry they feel they can "live in the wild" on their own, even if that wild is the forestry area near by.
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However, Savannah cats can also be very independent. They are not always fond of being handled, and may not like being picked up or cuddled. It is important to socialize them from a young age so that they grow up to be well-rounded cats.
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Savannah cats are known for their loyalty, and they will follow their owners around the house.
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Savannah Cat Diet
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The closer your Savannah cat is to its serval relative, the wilder their diet needs to be. These cats truly appreciate fresh food—raw diets with proper feline supplementation. We make sure when your new kitten goes home with you that you are aware of their diet and the recipe for the raw meat mixture will be provided.Â
Of course, you can also offer a high-quality dry or dehydrated food along with a high-quality canned wet food. If you do choose a commercial food for your Savannah cat, their diet should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
Savannah Ownership Laws
Savannah cats are legal in every province of Canada, although some provinces have restrictions on the generation of Savannah you can own.
It is best to research your provincial and municipality bylaws/laws prior to purchasing and welcoming a new savannah to your family.
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