Savannah

The Savannah cat is a tall, slim, long-legged cat and its final size may also depend on how close that particular offspring is to the first generation crosses – the early generations being quite large. Male Savannah cats tend to be larger than females. Because of the random factors in the Savannah cat breed's hybrid genetics, there can be significant variation in size, even in one litter. The overall look of an individual Savannah cat depends greatly on generation. They are usually spotted but can also come in classic or marble patterns, snow colouration and blue or other diluted colours. The ears are tall, deeply-cupped rounded and erect (the backs of the ears have a central light band bordered by black, dark grey or brown, giving an eye-like effect). They have a wide nose and hooded eyes. Their short tails have black rings, with a solid black tip and their eyes may be green, brown, or gold.

The need-to-know

Highly active and inquisitive cat
Friendly but independent cat

Lean and elegant cat breed
Requires grooming once a week

Outdoor cat
May require familiarisation before living with children

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Personality

As Savannah cats are not common, it is difficult to generalise about their personality traits and how predictable they are. Some say they are very social and friendly with new people and other cats and dogs, while others may run and hide or revert to hissing and growling on seeing a stranger. Apparently Savannah cats can also jump very high (8ft) from a standing position and learn quickly. This is probably not a first cat. It is quite large and strong and is frequently described as 'assertive'. Savannahs are said to both 'chirp' like a Serval or meow like a domestic cat or a mixture of the two. They are also said to hiss quite loudly.

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History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA

Savannah cats are rather controversial. They are the result of crossing a domestic cat and a Serval — a medium-sized, large-eared wild African cat. These first crosses are then bred again and the resulting cats are termed domestic. The breed began in the mid 1980s and is recognised by one of the cat fancy organisations.

Health and Common Issues

It is too early to know whether the Savannah cat breed has any health problems as none are yet cited in the veterinary literature.

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health. So it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Grooming Savannah

The Savannah cat's coat is easy to care for. As with all cats, this breed needs regular vaccinations, parasite control and annual health checks.

Best Cat Breeds for Children

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

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