Savannah Cat
Human beings like to manipulate and often play at being god. So, for example, it crosses animals of different species. This is the case of the Savannah cat, a hybrid breed created to give the kittens an appearance of wild cats, but with the personality of a docile and affectionate pet, almost like a dog.
Meet the wild-blooded kitten
We can say that the origin of this beautiful and big cat dates back to the 80s, of the last century. Its breeders have crossed different specimens of domestic cats with others of the African serval breed, an animal larger than the Felis catu , and with long, slender legs.
The main breeds of cats used for crossing were:
- Siamese
- shorthaired common cat
- short oriental hair
- Egyptian Mau
- Ocicat
And although cats of this breed are prohibited in some places ( this is the case in some US states), certain associations have begun to recognize it, as in the case of TICA (The International Cat Association).
A big cat with a beautiful coat
The Savannah cat, in addition to its wild appearance, stands out for its large size, much larger than that of a common kitten. It can measure between 67 and 100 centimeters and weigh between 8 and 18 kilos, although there are specimens that have reached up to 23 kilos.
However, we must clarify that, as the part of your wild ancestor is decreasing in your genes – current crosses are only made between the kittens of the breed – the size is decreasing and is closer to that of a domestic cat.
His coat is also impressive. Although it’s short, it has a background color – ranging from orange to amber – with brownish accents and black stripes and dots. And when you caress it, it feels like velvet.
In addition, there is the so-called white Savannah cat, which is the one with a background of creamy or whitish fur and also the one that maintains the mottled pattern.
In relation to its morphology, it is worth noting that its body is strong and slender and its legs are thin and agile. The head is medium in size and the eyes are slightly rounded and green, brown or yellow, and the ears are large. The tail is long, thin and with well-defined dark rings.
Savannah Cat Behavior
If you want to have a Savannah cat, we must warn you that it is not very advisable to have it as a pet if you have never had cats before, although it can live without major problems with children.
Smart, curious and agile, they are experts in jumping and are skilled climbers. They are also experts in running away from the house through the most unusual places and thus hunting their little prey, so extreme care is needed in this regard.
Active and intrepid, he likes to play with his owner and follow him wherever he goes. He usually shows a preference for a single member of his human family and even licks him as a sign of affection.
Furthermore, generations closer to the African servant cat , which gave rise to the breed, tend to be less attached and affectionate. Specimens with less “percentage” of wild cat in their blood are calmer and their personality resembles that of the common kitten.
An animal that is in good health
The Savannah cat’s food must be of quality. It is preferable to avoid foods that contain cereals or some industrial by-products.
As for hygiene, brush it from time to time. You may also have to wipe your cat’s eyes occasionally with a damp gauze pad.
Of course, you must also comply with regular visits to the veterinarian, as well as the vaccination and deworming schedule, as indicated by your trusted professional.
