Savannah Cat Information 

Savannah Cat: Characteristics, Care, and Temperament

Like the grace of a cheetah matched by the loyalty of a golden retriever, what does this fusion embody in a domesticated feline?

Enter the Savannah cat, boasting an exotic appearance with the interactive nature of familiar house pets – a marvel of breeding ingenuity.

Defining Features of Savannah Cats

The Savannah cat carries a magnificent presence, owing to its large, tall stature headlined by high-set ears, lengthy neck, and elongated legs. Its coat, dotted with bold, dark spots, cascades over a lean frame, an homage to its wild ancestors. With eyes like piercing amber or cool oceanic pools, set within a finely chiseled head, this breed exudes an arresting beauty that captivates all who behold it.

Distinctively marked by their deep, vibrant coats and striking ocelli—eye-like spots—on their ears, Savannahs embody the regal essence of the wild. Their remarkable jumping ability further sets them apart, enabling acrobatics seen in few domestic breeds.

Exotic Appearance

The Savannah cat's physique is statuesque—a testament to its undeniable wild ancestry and meticulous selective breeding initiatives.

The Savannah cat's coat resembles the African Serval, echoing the elegance and mystery of its wild counterparts.

Its coat pattern is remarkably consistent, featuring bold spots and stripes which provide an awe-inspiring mimicry of its Serval ancestors' camouflage and predatory prowess.

Accentuated by their tall, upright ears and extended neck, Savannahs possess a majestic gait akin to that of their wild relatives, setting them apart as one of the most sought-after exotic breeds.

Nutritional Requirements

Optimal nutrition is essential for Savannah cats.

Given their athletic build and high energy levels, Savannah cats require a diet rich in proteins and nutrients. It is critical to supply a diet that supports their muscle health and metabolism. Ideally, this means sourcing high-quality, meat-based proteins that can be efficiently utilized by these active felines. Additionally, fat is not to be shunned as it contributes to the sustenance of their vigorous lifestyle.

A balanced diet is imperative for optimal health.

Feeding should reflect a Savannah's life stage - be it kitten, adult, or senior. The dietary needs vary with age, hence tailor-made formulations geared towards each life-stage can be most beneficial. These specially designed diets will typically include the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Vet-recommended supplements may further bolster their nutrition.

For breeding Savannahs or those under rehabilitation, specialized dietary considerations might be necessary, adhering to the latest research of 2023. Custom diets may incorporate additional supplementation to address specific health issues or deficiencies, ensuring that each Savannah maintains optimal physiological function within its environment.

Exercise Needs

Savannah cats require a significant amount of physical activity to remain healthy and content. Without regular exercise, they can develop behavioral issues, such as destructive tendencies or excessive vocalization.

Interactive play sessions should be frequent and stimulating. Consider engaging toys that evoke their hunting instincts.

These cats thrive in environments where they can climb, jump, and explore. Outdoor access in a secure area enriches their physical stimulation and satisfies their curiosity. Providing a variety of platforms, trees, or specially designed cat furniture can greatly enhance their exercise regimen.

A lack of adequate exercise might lead to obesity and related health problems. It is essential to integrate activity into the daily routine of a Savannah to promote muscular development and cognitive health. Physical stimulation can be achieved through a combination of play, training exercises, and if possible, safe outdoor adventures. Regular activity, along with a proper diet, is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle for these dynamic and agile felines.

Health Considerations

Savannah cats, due to their hybrid nature, may exhibit a predisposition to certain genetic health conditions. Diligent observation is therefore paramount to ensure early detection and treatment of any arising issues. Responsible breeding practices have greatly reduced the incidence of these hereditary concerns, but they can still occur. Prospective and current owners should familiarize themselves with the breed's health history and specific needs.

Common health challenges may include pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD), a genetic enzyme deficiency leading to hemolytic anemia in some cats. This underscores the importance of acquiring a Savannah from reputable breeders who actively test for this and other inheritable conditions. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a cardiac condition characterized by an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, also warrants vigilance. Regular veterinary check-ups, including cardiac evaluations, are crucial to ensure the well-being of Savannah cats.

Savannahs may also experience sensitivity to certain vaccines and medications due to their unique genetic makeup. It's imperative to consult with a veterinarian who is well-versed in the breed's particularities when establishing vaccination protocols. Heightened allergic reactions to routine vaccines could necessitate modified or delayed vaccination schedules to safeguard the cat's health.

Lastly, it is vital to recognize that the nutritional requirements of a Savannah may deviate from those of standard domestic cats. Due to their lean build and active metabolism, Savannahs often benefit from a high-protein diet rich in quality meats. It is prudent to avoid filler-laden commercial foods, opting instead for premium formulations or a properly balanced raw diet. Such precise nutritional management can prevent issues such as gastrointestinal upsets and ensure the maintenance of optimal muscle mass and overall vitality.

Understanding Savannah Temperament

Savannah cats exhibit a highly intelligent and inquisitive nature, presenting owners with a dynamic companion. This breed's affinity for exploration and play is a testament to its wild ancestry, necessitating an environment that caters to its sophisticated mental and physical stimulation needs.

When socialized properly, Savannahs develop a strong bond with their owners, often showing affection and loyalty similar to that of dogs. Their temperament leans towards sociability, but it is contingent on early and consistent engagement, covering a spectrum of interactions from handling by humans to exposure to novel situations and environments.

The breed's heritage confers upon it a "dog-like" character and a "wild-meets-domestic" aura that many enthusiasts treasure. They require attentive mentoring and social frameworks in order to flourish as companions within a domestic setting.

Social and Affectionate Nature

Savannah cats are known for their exceptional social aptitude and their desire for interaction with humans and other pets.

• Enjoy companionship: Often seek the presence of their owners and are not shy about demanding attention.

• Dog-like characteristics: Exhibits loyalty and can form strong bonds, often compared to canines in their devotion.

• Interactive play: Preference for interactive toys and games, showing advanced problem-solving skills during playtime.

• Adaptability: Capable of adjusting to other household pets with proper introduction and socialization.

• Vocal communication: Utilizes a range of vocalizations to express desires and emotions to their human counterparts.

Their canine-like attachment styles are conducive to their integration into various household dynamics.

These felines thrive in an environment enriched with affection and consistent social engagement.

High Energy Levels

The Savannah cat embodies a vivacious spirit, necessitating ample avenues for exercise and play.

• Prolonged play sessions: Extended periods of interactive engagement are essential to burn off their considerable energy.

• Agility: Can exhibit notable acrobatic prowess, including impressive leaps and high-speed chases.

• Environmental enrichment: Requires a stimulating environment filled with climbing structures, puzzles, and space to roam.

• Mental stimulation: Smart toys and training exercises help channel their energy and prevent boredom.

These carnivores demand constructive stimulation both for physical health and mental well-being.

Their boundless vigor must be matched by dedicated playtime and environmental enrichment to ensure a harmonious co-existence within the home.

Intelligence and Trainability

The Savannah's intellect is undeniably sharp.

Recognized for their exceptional intelligence, Savannah cats exhibit the capacity to learn complex commands and perform intricate tasks. Due to their high level of perceptiveness and willingness to engage, training sessions often prove to be an interactive dance between pet and owner. Moreover, their capacity to understand and act upon commands underscores their cognitive faculties, which can be harnessed by owners who dedicate time to consistent and patient training.

Their curiosity is an unmistakable trait.

Training should be regarded as an opportunity – not a challenge – for these agile-minded felines offer immense potential for learning tricks, responding to commands, and even walking on a leash if proper technique and reinforcement are applied consistently.

Savannahs can manifest an eagerness for puzzle-solving.

Their desire to explore and master new challenges can be leveraged through interactive toys and puzzles, which serve not only to entertain but also to sharpen their instinctual problem-solving abilities. Being responsive to such positive stimuli, when combined with their agile capabilities, places Savannahs among the more trainable members within the feline lineage.

Living with a Savannah

Living with a Savannah cat is akin to harmonizing with a creature of magnificent origin. Their distinctive spotted coats, reminiscent of their wild ancestors, require regular grooming to maintain their resplendent appearance. These felines thrive in environments where their physical needs for exercise and

• Alabama: Allows all generations

• Alaska:  F4 and later allowed

• Arizona: Allows all generations

• Arkansas: Allows all generations

• California: Allows all generations

• Colorado: F4 and later allowed,  ownership illegal in the city limits of Denver

• Connecticut: Allows all generations

• Delaware:  Not allowed without a permit, fine for ownership

• DC: Allows all generations

• Florida: Allows all generations

• Georgia: Not allowed at all

• Hawaii: Ownership illegal

• Idaho: Allows all generations

• Illinois: Allows all generations

• Indiana: Allows all generations; some counties require permits

• Iowa: F4 and later allowed

• Kansas: Allows all generations

• Kentucky: Allows all generations

• Louisiana::Allows all generations

• Maine: Allows all generations

• Maryland: Allows all generations if the Savannah is under 30 pounds in weight

• Massachusetts: F4 and later allowed

• Michigan: Allows all generations

• Minnesota: Allows all generations

• Mississippi: Allows all generations

• Missouri: Allows all generations

• Montana: Allows all generations

• Nebraska: Not allowed at all.

• Nevada:  Allows all generations

• New Hampshire: F4 and later allowed

• New Jersey: Allows all generations

• New Mexico: Allows all generations, some cities require permits

• New York: F5 and later allowed; No generations allowed in NY City proper

• North Carolina: Allows all generations

• North Dakota: Allows all generations

• Ohio: Allows all generations

• Oklahoma: Allows all generations

• Oregon: Allows all generations; Some cities or counties may have restrictions

• Pennsylvania: Allows all generations

• Rhode Island: Not Permitted

• South Carolina: Allows all generations

• South Dakota:  Allows all generations

• Tennessee: Allows all generations

• Texas: Not allowed in most counties. Allowed in the following counties with strict permitting:  Aransas, Bell, Coryell, Ector, Guadalupe, Harris, Kaufman, Lubbock, Mason, Ward.  Montgomery must permit 1st through 3rd generation Savannahs; 4th and subsequent are allowed.

• Utah: Allows all generations

• Vermont: F4 and later allowed

• Virginia: Allows all generations

• Washington: Allows all generations; Seattle ownership is not permitted

• West Virginia: Allows all generations

• Wisconsin: Allows all generations

• Wyoming: Allows all generations

Generation 

Size Variations

Savannah cats exhibit significant size variations, largely influenced by their filial generation.

• F1 Generation: Weighing 17-25+ pounds with some males reaching over 30 pounds.

• F2 Generation: Weighs approximately 16-22 pounds, slightly lesser than F1.

• F3 Generation: Typically ranges between 12-16 pounds.

• F4 Generation and Beyond: Usually domestic cat size, between 8-15 pounds.

These size distinctions are critical for prospective owners to consider. The sizes vary depending on many factors including the parents and their lines. 

Subsequent generations tend to have a more moderate size, aligning closer to that of a domestic house cat. King Savannahs is known for producing very large late generation Savannahs cats and work with new owners to fit the right kitten to the family and their needs. 

Coat Patterns and Colors

The Savannah cat's coat is a blend of beauty and functionality, designed to replicate their wild ancestry.

1. Brown Spotted Tabby: A warm, golden hue with bold, dark spots. The brown spotted tabby is the most commonly seen Savannahs Cat currently. 

2. Silver Spotted Tabby: A silver base with black or dark grey spots.

3. Snow Spotted Tabby: (Lynx point or Mink) A white base with beige or light gray spots and blue eyes. The Snow Spotted Savannah can be registered with TICA but is not allowed in the show ring as they have non-permissible coloring. 

4. Black Smoke: A black-tipped silver coat that gives a smoked appearance.

5. Melanistic: Black to dark brown background with black spots (also known as a pantherette look).

These spectacular patterns render the Savannah both camouflage and distinction.

Their coats also range in base color from cool silver tones to the more common golden, underlining the breed's diverse beauty.

The C locus allele plays a crucial role in determining coat color and pattern in cats, particularly in relation to temperature-sensitive pigmentation. This allele is part of the TYR gene, which codes for the enzyme tyrosinase, essential for melanin production.

The C locus has multiple alleles that form a hierarchical series:

C > cb > cs > c

Where C represents full color, cb is the Burmese allele, cs is the Siamese allele, and c is the albino allele.

Full Color (C)

The dominant C allele produces the maximum possible degree of pigmentation, resulting in full coloration across the cat's body.

Burmese Allele (cb)

The cb allele, caused by a mutation c.679G>T (p.G227W), partially reduces pigmentation intensity. Cats homozygous for this allele (cb/cb) exhibit a sepia brown color, often referred to as the Burmese color. These cats typically have amber or yellow eyes.

Siamese Allele (cs)

The cs allele results from a mutation c.901G>A (p.G301R). This allele causes a significant reduction in coat pigmentation, leading to the distinctive Siamese or Himalayan coloration. Cats homozygous for this allele (cs/cs) display color point restriction, where pigmentation is concentrated on the cooler parts of the body (face, ears, paws, and tail), while the rest of the body remains pale or white. Siamese cats characteristically have blue eyes.

Mink Coloration

Interestingly, cats heterozygous for the Burmese and Siamese alleles (cb/cs) exhibit an intermediate phenotype known as mink coloration.

Albino Allele (c)

The recessive c allele, when homozygous, results in complete albinism. However, this allele is not detectable by standard C locus tests and is relatively rare.

Temperature Sensitivity

A key feature of the cb and cs alleles is their temperature sensitivity. The enzymes produced by these alleles are less stable at higher temperatures, leading to reduced pigment production in warmer parts of the body. This explains why Siamese and Burmese cats have darker extremities (points) where the body temperature is cooler.

Genetic Testing

Molecular genetic tests can detect carriers of the cs (Siamese) and cb (Burmese) alleles, allowing breeders to predict coat colors in offspring. However, it's important to note that other genes, such as those in the W-locus, can also contribute to white coat color independently of the C locus.

The c locus, also known as the colorpoint or albino locus, plays a significant role in determining coat color patterns in cats, including Savannah cats. However, there is no specific "lynx gene" associated with the c locus in Savannah cats. Let's clarify the relevant aspects of coat color genetics in Savannahs:

1. C locus in Savannah cats:
   The c locus contains multiple alleles that affect pigment production and distribution. In Savannah cats, the most common alleles are:

• C (full color)

• cb (Burmese)

• cs (Siamese)

• c (albino)

The order of dominance is C > cb = cs > c. Savannah cats typically carry the C allele for full color expression, as this is closest to their wild Serval ancestor's coloration.

2. Tabby patterns in Savannah cats:
   Savannah cats exhibit tabby patterns, which are influenced by other genetic loci, not the c locus. The main tabby patterns seen in Savannahs are:

• Spotted

• Classic (blotched)

• Mackerel

• Ticked

3. Lynx-like appearance:
   The "lynx-like" look in Savannah cats is not due to a specific gene but rather a combination of features inherited from their Serval ancestry and selective breeding. This includes:

• Large, upright ears

• Spotted or striped coat patterns

• Long legs

• Athletic build

4. Non-standard traits:
   Some Savannah cats may exhibit traits that are considered non-standard for the breed, such as:

• White toes

• White locket of hair

• Long hair

• Marble pattern

• Servaline pattern (very fine or almost indistinct spots)

• Ticked pattern

It's important to note that the Savannah cat breed does not display solid coat patterns. There is always an underlying pattern or "ghost spotting," even in cats that appear solid at first glance.

In conclusion, while there isn't a specific "lynx gene" associated with the c locus in Snow Savannah cats, their distinctive appearance results from a combination of genetic factors influencing coat color, pattern, and physical characteristics. The c locus primarily affects overall color expression, while other genetic loci contribute to the tabby patterns and physical traits that give Savannahs their wild, lynx-like appearance.  

The First Night(s)

Remember that your new Savannah is confused, and EVERYTHING is new. They will be searching for their mom and may be vocal for the first 1-4 days. It is best for them to have a small, dedicated space (Like a bathroom or a walk-in closet) with a litter box, food, water and a bed. The space should be quiet to allow them to explore and easily find their supplies safely. They should sleep in this space for several days or weeks when unsupervised before allowing the kitten to roam free in a new house or sleep with you in the bed. A young kitten that cannot quickly find the litter box may relieve themselves on soft bedding or a clothes pile. 

You will be given a small bag of the dry food the kitten is eating, enough to switch to your desired food slowly. They also may refuse to drink water if it is different (city water to well water may be quite different tasting). It is a good idea to have a bottle water on hand in case the kitten is not drinking. 

Introducing your Savannah to family and household pets

Introduce the kitten slowly to new family members and pets. Introduce family members and children one at a time if possible, and only introduce family pets AFTER two weeks. 

When introducing family pets: Allow them to smell eachothr under the door during the two week quarantine. After the two weeks, take the kitten out of its room and allow the other pets to enter and smell everything. Introductions can be slow through a cracked door to ensure the safety of both pets. when they have had a chance to see eathouther through a cracked door and are no longer scared, slowly let them smell eachother openly. There will be hissing and growling and this may continue for several weeks which is normal. If either pet lunges or attacks, start the process all over again after a few days. Contact us if you are having trouble with this process. 

Caring for Your Savannah

Savannah cats demand an enriched environment with ample opportunities for play and exploration. Mental stimulation is paramount, incorporating puzzle feeders, interactive toys, cat wheels, and space for climbing can prevent behavioral issues. Due to their lineage, Savannahs may also display an affinity for water, so don't be surprised if activities include splashing or even joining you in the shower.

Routine veterinary care is essential to a Savannah's long-term health and well-being. Ensure vaccinations and parasite control are up to date and consult with a veterinarian about the specific nutritional needs of this high-energy breed to maintain optimal health and vitality. 

An overview of the Serval cat characteristics and behavior

The Serval remains elusive in its native habitat.

This medium-sized African wildcat exhibits a blend of grace and lethal agility, navigating the savannah with silent precision.

With its distinctive coat patterned with black spots and stripes, the Serval possesses physical adaptations — long legs and large ears —that enhance its hunting prowess, enabling it to detect prey across the sprawling grasslands.

A solitary and secretive feline.

Defining the Serval

The Serval, or Leptailurus serval, claims a distinct niche within the Felidae family, defined by unique morphological traits and an innate predatory acumen.

Evolving within the diverse ecosystems of Africa, this robust species showcases exceptional adaptability, thriving from the coastal reed beds to the high-altitude moorlands, thus demonstrating a broad ecological amplitude.

Behaviorally, Servals epitomize the archetypal solitary hunter, exhibiting both crepuscular and nocturnal rhythms in their quest for sustenance.

Physical Attributes

Servals are distinguished by their long limbs and substantial ears, features that are crucial for their survival in the wild.

Despite its slender frame, the Serval boasts remarkable strength, particularly in its hindquarters, which facilitates powerful leaps during the hunt.

A Serval's coat is a marvel of camouflage, its intricate pattern of spots and stripes blending seamlessly with the tall grasses of its environment, effectively obscuring the predator from both prey and threats alike.

The Serval's skull is elongated with a pronounced muzzle, embodying a balance of strength and agility that is optimized for their carnivorous diet, reflecting an evolutionary refinement for hunting.

Unique Adaptations

Servals are highly specialized felids, each trait fine-tuned for their ecological niche.

1. Large Ears: Pivotally mounted and capable of rotating, these satellite-like appendages detect even the faintest rustlings of prey.

2. Long Legs: Relative to body size, their limbs are the longest of any cat, granting them exceptional agility and height for scanning tall grasses.

3. Spotted and Striped Coat: Provides superb camouflage within the sun-dappled undergrowth, mimicking the play of light through dense vegetation.

4. Pounce Technique: Highly developed hind leg muscles allow them to pounce up to 10 feet vertically to catch airborne prey, like birds.

5. Sensitive Whiskers: Their vibrissae are tuned to pick up subtle vibrations, aiding in nocturnal hunts.

These features coalesce to make the Serval an apex predator within its domain.

Their proficiency as hunters is evident in their diet, a varied spectrum of prey that attests to their adaptability and predatory precision.

Serval Social Dynamics

Servals, by nature, are solitary animals, save for the instances of mothers nurturing their young or during the fleeting breeding seasons. These interactions hint at a complex communication system underpinning serval society, often overlooked given their reclusive dispositions.

Indicative of their independence, servals maintain territories that they defend vehemently, leaving conspicuous scent markings as declarations of ownership. Intrusions by other servals are usually deterred through olfactory signals, but can escalate into aggressive physical confrontations if necessary.

These territories are not only crucial for hunting but also serve as bastions for solitude, suggesting that serval "socializing" is predominantly a means of delineating personal space rather than seeking regular companionship.

Solitary Nature

Servals display a pronounced preference for an isolated existence, shunning frequent interaction with other Servals. This penchant for solitude is deeply ingrained in their natural behavior, shaping their daily activities and territorial instincts.

While many felines exhibit some degree of social flexibility, servals are markedly less inclined to form bonds outside of the breeding season. This solitary trait necessitates a broader understanding of their nuanced communication, which is primarily deployed for territorial demarcation and mating rituals.

Within the scope of their expansive territories, servals engage in minimal social contact, often communicating through indirect methods such as scent marking and vocalizations. These signals serve to establish boundaries and express individual presence without the need for physical interaction.

Exceptionally, when encounters do occur, they are often brief and purpose-driven, dictated by reproductive imperatives or disputes over territorial claims. Such interactions are characterized by a ritualized etiquette designed to minimize conflict and uphold the sanctity of their solitary lifestyle.

The serval's commitment to solitude is testament to its evolutionary adaptation, ensuring survival through stealth and individual mastery of its environment. This solitary predilection underscores their status as elusive and enigmatic felids within the Savanna's complex ecosystem.

Territorial Behaviors

Servals assert dominion over marked territories with utmost vigilance, utilizing scents, visual markers, and auditory cues to delineate their space. Predominantly solitary, these felines patrol their boundaries, ready to confront intrusions with fierce determination.

Their scent markings indicate clear boundaries to other servals and potential trespassers. Spats of urine and olfactory marks on vegetation are commonplace demarcations.

Moreover, visual signals such as scratch marks on trees (strategic clawing leaving visible scars) are prominent territorial declarations. Clawing not only leaves a visual marker but also deposits scent from glands in the paws.

Vocalizations serve as an auditory method of communicating territorial presence, with calls ranging from high-pitched cries to menacing growls. These sounds convey warnings to conspecifics and deter others from encroaching on their turf.

Servals are not adverse to employing aggressive posturing in face of territorial threats, arching their backs and displaying piloerection to appear larger and more intimidating to intruders. A highly territorial serval will fiercely defend its domain against both conspecifics and other unwelcome visitors.

Indeed, a serval's home range is its kingdom, zealously guarded against infringement. Such defensive conduct ensures these felines maintain control over their hunting grounds and reproductive opportunities within their established territory.

Hunting Techniques

The Serval is a proficient hunter, employing remarkable techniques honed for efficiency in its native grasslands. With their elongated legs and large ears, Servals employ a distinctive method of pouncing, using powerful leaps to propel themselves towards unsuspecting prey. They primarily hunt rodents, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, combining stealth with acute hearing to detect and localize sounds of prey movements. Once detected, a Serval might use its forepaws to expertly pin down the quarry before delivering a fatal bite. It's not uncommon for a Serval to leap high into the air to catch birds in flight, showcasing its agile and calculated predatory prowess.

Prey and Predation

The Serval cat is an adept predator, capitalizing on its physical attributes to secure a variety of prey.

• Rodents: Including mice, rats, and voles, which comprise the bulk of their diet.

• Birds: Servals skillfully catch both ground-dwelling and airborne species.

• Reptiles: Such as lizards and snakes, are opportunistically hunted.

• Amphibians: Frogs and other amphibians are consumed, especially during wet seasons.

• Insects: They also snack on larger insects, contributing to their dietary variety.

Predation serves as the central pillar of the Serval's interaction with its ecosystem.

Servals face predation mainly from larger carnivores like lions and hyenas, and must remain vigilant at all times.

Nighttime Strategies

As nocturnal hunters, Servals exhibit remarkable adaptations for the dark.

• Enhanced Vision: Their large, dish-shaped eyes gather more light.

• Whisker Sensitivity: To detect the slightest movements of prey.

• Silent Stalking: Servals move with stealth to surprise their target.

• Auditory Acuity: Exceptional hearing pinpoints prey with precision.

• Elevated Jump: They utilize powerful leaps to ambush from above.

Their hunting success hinges on exceptional night-time abilities.

By capitalizing on these strategies, Servals maintain their role as apex nocturnal predators.