ANIMAL: Savannah Cat Felis catus x Leptailurus serval Type of Animal: Feline Habitat: Homes, areas of human habitation Location(s): Domesticated in N America, Europe, & Africa Appearance: Hybrid of domestic cat & serval, F1 & F2 generations have more serval characteristics & largest forms, yellowish-golden coat w/ black spots but comes in different colors, tall pointy ears, short thick tail, long slender neck, darker than serval, long legs, larger than domestic cat but smaller than serval, largest domestic cat breed, also taller/leaner than domestic cats, later generations often have more tabby colors, Food/Diet: Cat food, birds, small & medium-sized mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, carrion, scraps, refuse Status in Wild: Domesticated Conservation: Not applicable Lifestyle: Solitary or small groups of 2-6 cats Additional Info: Called: Male: Tom Female: Queen Young: Kitten Group: Colony/Clowder Weight: Male: 14-30 lbs Female: 10-19 lbs Young: 2 lbs Gestation: 2.5 months Life Span: 12-20 years Height: Male: 1.3-1.5 ft Female: 1.167-1.3 ft Body Length: Male: 1.5-2 ft Female: 1.3-1.83 ft Tail Length: 9 in, same for both sexes Main predators of adults are larger felids, canids, crocodilians, large snakes, large raptors, & hyenas. Monitor lizards, smaller raptors, pigs, & raccoons prey on young. Females fertile in any generation-males often aren’t fertile until F5 generation. Due to potential of threatening native wildlife, importation into Australia is banned. Importing Savannahs from US into Canada requires rabies vaccinations & special permits. Officially recognized by International Cat Association in 2001. Sexually mature at 7 months old. Not prone to lots of shedding, so very easy to groom. Mark territory by spraying/clawing. Fun Fact(s): Like servals, they’re excellent jumpers-in fact, they can jump as high as 8 ft. Homes often have to be reinforced due to Savannah’s strong prey drive, which can be potentially disastrous for local wildlife. Often called perfect cat breed for “dog people.” These cats quite intelligent, being able to turn faucets, open cabinets, & activate alarm clocks. F1 & F2 cats can be quite expensive, sometimes as much as $20,000. Known to be quite loyal to owners. Unlike many cats, these cats like water. Much more energetic & athletic than most cat breeds. 1st cat produced on April 7, 1986 by Judee Frank who crossbred male serval w/ female Siamese Cat, producing male named Savannah. Can be trained to walk on leash & fetch. These cats are very inquisitive & often mischievous.
