Savannah: The Majestic and Fascinating Feline
The Savannah is a relatively new breed, resulting from the crossbreeding of the Serval, a wild cat native to the African savannahs, and various spotted domestic cats. It was developed in the United States, where it all started with a cat named Miracle. She was born in 1986 to a Siamese mother raised by Judee Frank and a Serval father owned by another breeder. Judee Frank named her Savannah, and three years later, she gave birth to a litter of kittens, sired by a Turkish Angora male.
- Origins and History
- Physical Characteristics
- Temperament and Behavior
- Care and Grooming
- Diet and Nutrition
- The Savannah at a Glance
Origins and History
The Savannah is a cat breed created in the 1980s in the United States. It is the result of a cross between the Serval, a wild cat native to Africa, and various spotted domestic cats. The Savannah has adapted perfectly to domestic life. Very sociable and active, it is known for its energetic nature and loud, raspy meows. This cat is very affectionate toward its owner and family. With its tender nature, it is well-suited for families with children, especially those from generations further removed from the Serval. However, it needs plenty of space to exercise daily. Notably, it is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people who are sensitive to allergies.
One of their descendants was purchased by Patrick Kelly, who continued the development of the breed. Joyce Sroufe also contributed significantly, particularly by co-writing the first breed standard. However, this was only recognized by TICA (The International Cat Association) in the early 2000s after considerable efforts from enthusiasts like Lorre Smith and Gary Fulgham. The latter had formed a group of 18 founding breeders who helped popularize the breed.
In France, the Savannah remains relatively rare. The LOOF (Livre Officiel des Origines Félines) only allows cats from the F5 generation or later to be shown at exhibitions. A Savannah is classified as F1 generation if its father is a Serval and its mother a domestic cat. An F2 has a Serval as a grandfather, an F3 as a great-grandfather, and so on. The further along in this classification (F5 and beyond), the more distant the cat is from the Serval.
Physical Characteristics
- Eyes: Almond-shaped and gold or green in color.
- Coat: Short, hypoallergenic, ranging from fawn to orange with black spots.
- Coat Colors: Ranging from fawn to orange with black spots.
- Head: Relatively short, triangular, longer than wide.
- Body: Imposing, muscular, can weigh over 10 kg and measure more than 45 cm.
- Ears: Large, high on the head, wide at the base, with rounded tips.
- Tail: Thick, shorter than most cats, with a black tip.
Temperament and Behavior
Despite its partially wild ancestry, the Savannah is a gentle and affectionate cat. The Serval, from which it descends, also lives close to humans. The Savannah is an intelligent and curious cat and a great athlete who loves to play and jump. It also doesn’t mind getting into the water.
In fact, its temperament is influenced by the quality of its socialization and the generation to which it belongs, especially regarding its behavior with children. F1 and F2 cats, closer to the Serval, generally bond with only one person (the owner), maybe two at most. Therefore, they are more reserved with children and strangers. However, Savannahs from later generations are more trusting of people, including younger ones, with whom they enjoy playtime.
The Savannah also needs to be active and stimulated. If bored, it can become destructive, targeting various household items like clothing, shoes, furniture, etc.
Living Conditions
Vaccination for this generally healthy cat is recommended. It is essential to protect it against rabies, typhus, leukemia, and coryza, as with all its feline counterparts. Beyond this, it does not suffer from any known genetic diseases. The Savannah is quite robust.
The Savannah’s Nutritional Guide
Like all cats, the Savannah requires a balanced, protein-rich diet to maintain its health. Its diet should include high-quality proteins, healthy fats, fibers, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is important to choose foods that suit its age, weight, and activity level.
Nutritional Needs
The Savannah has specific nutritional needs to maintain optimal health:
- High-Quality Proteins: Essential for muscle development and overall health. Choose protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb.
- Healthy Fats: Provide energy and contribute to healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly beneficial.
- Fibers: Aid digestion and maintain good intestinal health. Vegetables and whole grains are good sources of fiber.
- Vitamins and Minerals: A balanced diet should include vitamins and minerals to support the cat's immune system and overall health.
It is important to consult a veterinarian for personalized advice on your Savannah’s diet.
Treat Recommendations
To complement your Savannah’s diet, Marly & Dan offers a range of premium treats tailored to your feline companion's needs. Here are some of the most recommended options:
- Anti-Hairball Treats: Enriched with natural fibers and enzymes, they help move ingested hair through the digestive system, reducing vomiting and discomfort.
- 100% Salmon Skin & Coat Treats: Provide high-quality protein to support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Salmon Oil: Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, it is a premium supplement that contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat in cats.
Marly & Dan treats are made in France from natural and high-quality ingredients, ensuring healthy and tasty snacks for your Savannah. Give them the best by choosing Marly & Dan, a brand dedicated to excellence in pet nutrition.
Care and Grooming
The Savannah requires regular grooming to maintain the beauty and health of its coat. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient but may need to be done daily during shedding periods. Grooming also includes cleaning the eyes and ears, trimming the claws, and brushing the teeth.
In terms of health, the Savannah is generally robust, but it is essential to monitor for any signs of genetic or hereditary problems. An annual vet visit is recommended to ensure everything is in order.
The Savannah has a life expectancy of 13 to 20 years.
Price and Budget
The purchase price of a Savannah ranges between €800 and €4,000. The annual maintenance cost varies between €300 and €600.
The Savannah at a Glance
FAQ
The Savannah is very attached to its owner and adoptive family. It enjoys cuddles, but due to its active temperament, it often prefers playtime and exploration. Expect it to follow you everywhere, ready for adventure, but also for cuddling sessions when it’s done playing!
The Savannah can adapt to apartment living but requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation. A secure outdoor space is ideal to allow it to burn off energy. Ensure it has plenty of toys and activities to avoid boredom. It loves climbing, jumping, and exploring, so a cat tree and interactive toys will be its best friends.
The Savannah can get along with other pets if socialized from a young age. However, due to its hunting instinct, it may not be suitable for homes with small animals like rodents or birds. With other cats and dogs, it can become an excellent playmate!
The Savannah has specific dietary needs due to its strong musculature and high energy levels. It often prefers fresh meat to industrial food. Opt for a protein-rich diet with chicken or beef, and avoid processed foods. Remember to consult your veterinarian for a tailored diet.