Savannah Cats are consistently the tallest domestic cat breed ...discover interesting facts about Savannah cats and kittens here . . .
Savannah Cats are consistently the tallest domestic cat breed. Watch the video to discover interesting facts about “Savannah Cats” and see more details below.
Read more about Savannah Cats personality and breed profile below.
The Savannah cat breed is a cross between a domestic cat and a serval (a medium-sized, large-eared wild African cat). This breed became popular among breeders at the end of the 1990s. In 2001, the International Cat Association (TICA) accepted it as a new registered breed and in May 2012, TICA accepted it as a championship breed.
On April 7, 1986, Judee Frank crossbred a male serval, belonging to Suzi Woods, with a Siamese domestic cat to produce the first Savannah cat (named Savannah). In 1996, Patrick Kelley and Joyce Sroufe wrote the original version of the Savannah breed standard and presented it to the TICA board, and in 2001.
The Savannah cat can come in different colors and patterns; however, TICA breed standards accept only spotted patterns with certain colors and color combinations. Non-standard patterns and colors include rosetted, marble, snow color (point), blue color, cinnamon color, chocolate color, lilac (lavender) and other diluted colors derived from domestic sources of cat coat genetics. TICA’s breed standard calls for brown-spotted tabby (cool to warm brown, tan or gold with black or dark brown spots), silver-spotted tabby (silver coat with black or dark grey spots), black (black with black spots), and black smoke (black-tipped silver with black spots) only. Standard colors include brown (black) spotted tabby, silver spotted tabby, black and black smoke.
These cats are known for their loyalty, and they will follow their owners around the house. They can also be trained to walk on a leash and to fetch. Early socialization of kittens with people and other cats is key to how they develop. With their long legs, Savannah cats are known for their jumping ability. They also have a natural tendency to seek out high places. They are known to find and seek the highest perches in the house. Some Savannahs can leap about 8 feet (2.5 m) high from a standing position. Like most cat breeds, Savannahs are very inquisitive. They often learn how to open doors and cupboards and owners should take special precautions to prevent the cat from getting into trouble. Many Savannah cats enjoy water and will play or even immerse themselves in water.
Healthy Savannah cats have a life expectancy range of 15 – 20 years.
Unlike most cats, Savannahs are fascinated by water. They may enjoy splashing around in sinks or bathtubs, and some even join their owners in the shower!
Due to their active nature, Savannah cats require a lot of stimulation, both physically and mentally. Owners need to provide plenty of space, toys, and attention to keep them entertained and content.
Savannahs are known for their high level of intelligence. They are curious and love problem-solving, often learning how to open doors or cabinets. Because of this, they need mental stimulation and interactive toys to stay engaged. Savannah cats are considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds in the world.
In some regions, owning a Savannah cat is subject to legal restrictions. Higher-generation Savannahs, such as F1 and F2, may be considered exotic pets and might require special permits, or even be banned altogether.
Early-generation Savannahs can weigh 12 – 25 pounds (5.4 to 11.3 kg) with the heavier cats attributed to the F1 or F2 neutered males due to genetics. Later-generation Savannahs are usually between 8 – 17 pounds (3.5 and 7.7 kg). Because of the random factors in Savannah genetics, size can vary significantly. The “F” in F1, F2, etc., represents the generation of Savannah. F1 is the closest to the serval, and as you go up in numbers (F2, F3, etc.), the percentage of wild serval genetics decreases, making them more domestic in behavior.
Remember to “share” these interesting facts about Savannah Cats with other cat fans and subscribe to our CatFancast YouTube Channel for more entertaining cat videos !