The Savannah cat, a rare cat breed derived from wildcats, possesses a muscular and wild appearance not found in ordinary cats.
Though these cats are very rare and garner much attention, their characteristics are not widely known.
While the term "wild" might imply difficulty in bonding with humans, the reality of living with them is quite the opposite, as we will explore.
Table of Contents
1. What is a Savannah Cat?
→ 1-1. How were Savannah Cats created?
→ 1-2. The degree of serval blood determines the classification
→ 1-3. Is permission needed to live with a Savannah Cat?
2. Things to be aware of when living with a Savannah Cat
→ 2-1. What is the personality of a Savannah Cat?
→ 2-2. Providing an environment to cover their exceptional athletic abilities
→ 2-3. Be careful about Savannah Cats escaping
3. For a Savannah Cat to live a healthy life
→ 3-1. Find a vet before anything happens
→ 3-2. Do Savannah Cats have a long lifespan?
Summary
1. What is a Savannah Cat?
Savannah cats are rare hybrids of domestic and wild cats. Breeding attempts between domestic cats and wildcats are rare and successful cases are even rarer, making Savannah cats somewhat miraculous.
1-1. How were Savannah Cats created?
The first generation of Savannah cats dates back to the 1980s. At that time, a Bengal cat breeder attempted to crossbreed a Siamese cat with a wild African serval, successfully resulting in the first Savannah cat.
Subsequent research by other breeders established the Savannah cat as a recognized breed, achieving TICA recognition in 2001 and championship status in 2012.
1-2. The degree of serval blood determines the classification
Savannah cats vary in the degree of serval ancestry, classified from F1 to F7, with F1 having the highest percentage of serval blood. This affects their appearance, size, and muscle mass.
The price of a Savannah cat also increases with the serval bloodline's purity, often reaching several million yen.
1-3. Is permission needed to live with a Savannah Cat?
Due to their unique lineage, living with F2 or lower Savannah cats requires special permission. This is different from the permission for invasive species, making it relatively easier to obtain if the conditions are met.
However, breeding F1 Savannah cats became impossible after servals were banned for pet purposes in June 2020 due to potential dangers to humans.
2. Things to be aware of when living with a Savannah Cat
The personality of Savannah cats may surprise many as they are much more sociable and affectionate compared to their wild ancestors, especially those with a higher degree of domestic cat blood.
2-1. What is the personality of a Savannah Cat?
Despite their wild heritage, Savannah cats are known for being affectionate and sociable. They also have a unique trait of not being afraid of water, with some even enjoying water play.
2-2. Providing an environment to cover their exceptional athletic abilities
The extraordinary athletic abilities of Savannah cats require an adequate environment for them to exercise and play freely.
Special attention should be given when selecting items like cat towers, as their weight and strength can lead to damage if not properly supported.
2-3. Be careful about Savannah Cats escaping
Due to their intelligence and physical capabilities, special measures such as lockable doors may be necessary to prevent escapes.
3. For a Savannah Cat to live a healthy life
It's crucial to observe and provide medical care promptly as Savannah cats may not always show signs of illness. Finding a trustworthy vet familiar with their specific needs is also important.
3-1. Find a vet before anything happens
Finding a reliable veterinarian who is willing to learn about Savannah cats is vital for their health and wellbeing.
3-2. Do Savannah Cats have a long lifespan?
Savannah cats are known for their longevity, often living up to 20 years, which is longer than the average lifespan of domestic cats.
Summary
Savannah cats are rare worldwide, and owning one can be considered a great fortune. Despite the challenges in creating the right environment and finding a suitable vet, the time spent with these intelligent and affectionate cats is invaluable
