The Savannah Cat – Breed Temperament and infos

Introducing the Savannah Cat: A Wild Beauty in Your Home

Savannah cats are a strikingly unique breed that combines the elegance of a wild African serval with the charm of a domesticated cat. These majestic felines captivate with their tall, lean bodies and bold, spotted coats. If you’re looking for an exotic companion with the personality to match, the Savannah cat might just be the perfect fit.

Breed Overview

The Savannah cat is a captivating blend of wild and domestic traits. Born from the crossbreeding of a domestic cat and an African serval, this cat is known for its striking appearance and lively personality.

In this article, you will learn:

• The fascinating origins of the breed.
• How to cater to their high energy and intelligence.
• Tips for ensuring a healthy and happy cat.

Join us as we delve into the world of Savannah cats, exploring everything from their playful nature to their dietary needs and beyond.

History of the Savannah cat

The Savannah cat is a relatively new breed, with its origins tracing back to the 1980s. The breed was created by crossing a domestic cat with a serval, a wild African cat known for its large ears and striking coat patterns. The first documented Savannah cat was born on April 7, 1986, when a Bengal breeder named Judee Frank bred a male serval with a domestic Siamese cat. The resulting kitten, named Savannah, became the namesake of the breed.

The unique appearance and temperament of the Savannah quickly garnered attention, and breeders began working to establish the breed more formally. The early generations of these cats were bred back to servals or other hybrid cats, but over time, breeders focused on creating a more standardized breed by using domestic cats like the Egyptian Mau, Ocicat, and Oriental Shorthair.

In 2001, the International Cat Association (TICA) accepted the Savannah as a new breed, and it has since gained popularity for its exotic look and dog-like personality. Despite its relatively short history, the Savannah cat has made a significant impact in the world of exotic pets, admired for its striking beauty and unique characteristics.

Temperament

Savannahs are known for their vibrant personalities and strong bond with their human companions. They are highly active and playful, often displaying behaviors more commonly associated with dogs than cats. This breed is known for its curiosity and intelligence, which means they are always on the lookout for new adventures and challenges.

Savannahs are very social and thrive on interaction. They enjoy playing fetch, walking on a leash, and even learning tricks. Their affectionate nature means they form close bonds with their owners, often following them from room to room and engaging in interactive play. Despite their wild ancestry, Savannah cats are typically friendly and enjoy the company of other pets and children, provided they are well-socialized from a young age.

One distinctive trait of the Savannah cat is its tendency to be vocal. They communicate through a variety of sounds, including meows, chirps, and hisses, making their presence well-known in any household. This vocal nature, combined with their high energy levels, means they require a lot of attention and stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Living Needs

Living with a Savannah can be an adventure in itself. These cats require a spacious environment where they can explore and express their natural behaviors. Ideally, they should have access to a secure outdoor area or a large indoor space filled with stimulating toys, climbing structures, and interactive activities.

Savannah cats are known for their agility and love of climbing, so vertical space is just as important as horizontal space. Cat trees, shelves, and other climbing apparatus are essential to keep them entertained and physically fit. Due to their high energy levels, they do not fare well in small, confined spaces like apartments, unless the owner can provide ample enrichment and exercise opportunities.

Safety is another key consideration for Savannah cat owners. Because of their curious and adventurous nature, it’s important to ensure that their environment is secure. Windows should have sturdy screens, and any outdoor areas should be securely fenced to prevent escapes.

Savannah cats also benefit from regular interactive play sessions with their owners. This not only helps to burn off their energy but also strengthens the bond between cat and human. Investing time in training and engaging with these intelligent and social cats is crucial for their well-being.

Nutrition Needs of Savannah Cats

Savannah cats have unique nutritional needs that reflect their active lifestyle and hybrid heritage. A high-quality, balanced diet is crucial to maintaining their health and vitality. These cats benefit from a diet rich in protein, which supports their muscular build and high energy levels.

Many owners and breeders recommend a combination of wet and dry food, ensuring that the diet is formulated for active, high-energy cats. Look for cat foods that list meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with excessive fillers like corn or soy. Because of their wild ancestry, some owners opt to include raw or cooked meats as part of their diet, but this should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure nutritional balance.

Savannah cats can also be prone to urinary tract issues, so ensuring they have access to plenty of fresh water is essential. Consider using a water fountain to encourage regular drinking, as many cats are drawn to running water.

Portion control is important, as Savannah cats can be prone to obesity if overfed. Feed them according to their weight and activity level, and monitor their body condition regularly. Treats can be used as rewards during training sessions, but they should be given in moderation to avoid weight gain.

Care and Grooming Needs

Savannah cats are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they still require regular care to keep their coats and bodies healthy. Their short to medium-length coats are easy to maintain with weekly brushing, which helps remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Regular brushing also strengthens the bond between you and your cat.

Bathing is rarely necessary for Savannah cats unless they get particularly dirty, as they are generally good at keeping themselves clean. However, it’s important to start acclimating them to water and baths from a young age if you plan to bathe them, to ensure they are comfortable with the process.

Beyond coat care, other grooming tasks include regular nail trimming to prevent overgrowth and scratching issues. Providing scratching posts and pads can also help keep their claws in good condition and protect your furniture.

Dental hygiene is another critical aspect of their care. Regular brushing of their teeth with cat-safe toothpaste can prevent dental diseases and maintain overall health. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor their health and catch any potential issues early.

Health

Savannah cats are generally healthy, but they can be prone to some health issues that potential owners should be aware of. One of the primary concerns is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart condition in cats. Regular veterinary check-ups, including heart screenings, can help detect this condition early.

Another health issue to be aware of is liver shunts, particularly in younger Savannah cats. This condition can affect their growth and development, so early diagnosis and treatment are important. Regular blood tests can help monitor for this condition.

Savannah cats are also at risk for certain inherited conditions due to their hybrid nature. Responsible breeders screen for genetic issues to minimize the risk of passing these conditions to kittens. When choosing a Savannah, it’s important to work with reputable breeders who prioritize the health of their animals.

Finally, as with all cats, regular vaccinations, parasite control, and routine health care are essential to keep a Savannah cat healthy. Keeping up with their veterinary visits and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle will contribute to a long, healthy life for these beautiful cats.

Should You Have a Savannah cat as a Pet?

Deciding to bring a Savannah cat into your home is a significant commitment and one that requires careful consideration. They are not your average house cats; their unique combination of wild ancestry and domestic charm means they have specific needs and characteristics that may not suit every household.

Firstly, Savannah cats are highly active and intelligent. They thrive in environments where they can explore, play, and interact with their human companions. If you lead a busy lifestyle or are frequently away from home, a Savannah cat might not be the best choice. These cats require a lot of attention and stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues.

Savannah cats are also known for their strong bonds with their owners. They can be quite affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families, but this also means they can become lonely or anxious if left alone for extended periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is often present or where they have other pets to keep them company.

Another consideration is the space required for a Savannah cat. These cats are agile climbers and need plenty of vertical and horizontal space to explore. They may not be well-suited to small apartments unless the space is enriched with plenty of climbing structures and interactive toys.

Finally, potential owners should be prepared for the health care and maintenance costs associated with owning a Savannah cat. Their hybrid nature can lead to specific health concerns, and regular veterinary care is essential to monitor and maintain their health.

Fun Facts about Savannah Cats

1. Record Holders: The Savannah cat holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest domestic cat. A feline named Arcturus measured an impressive 19.05 inches tall!
2. Dog-like Traits: Savannah cats often display behaviors more commonly associated with dogs, such as playing fetch, walking on a leash, and following their owners around the house.
3. Exotic Ancestry: The breed’s wild ancestor, the African serval, is known for its exceptional jumping ability, which the Savannah cat has inherited. These cats can leap up to 8 feet in the air from a standing position.
4. Highly Social: Despite their wild appearance, they are very social and can get along well with other pets and children if properly socialized from a young age.
5. Unique Coat Patterns: No two Savannah cats have the same coat pattern. Their spotted coats are reminiscent of their serval heritage, with each cat boasting a unique arrangement of spots and stripes.
6. Vocal Communicators: They are known for their wide range of vocalizations, including chirps, meows, and even hisses, which they use to communicate with their owners and other animals.