About Savannah Cats

Savannah cats are a hybrid breed derived from mating a female domestic cat and a genuine male African Serval. What is unique about Savannahs is that they retain the spotted coats of the Serval parent, which are similar to a leopard or cheetah. While they may resemble their wild ancestors, this domesticated hybrid mix is much more friendly and affectionate.

History

Cat breeder Judee Frank first introduced Savannahs in the 1980s. She called her first generation hybrid cats F-1, meaning at least one cat parent is a pure African Serval. There are other combinations of Serval hybrid mixes, but there are none purer than Jude Frank's F-1. For example, if you breed an F-1 with a domestic cat, his or her offspring would be considered an F-2 as there is no purebred parent. The Savannah breed truly began catching on after about 10 years. Breeders became determined to have this top-quality cat recognized as a legitimate breed.

Personality

According to Cat Fancy magazine, Savannah cats can be quite affectionate to their owner but are not known to be lap cats. They are fairly independent and sometimes enjoy just hanging out by themselves. Like most hybrids with a wild ancestor, Savannahs are more curious than most cats. Savannahs so smart that they've been known to open cupboard doors on their own. Savannahs enjoy play time more than anything and the game of fetch is one of their favorites. They also love the water and are known to be excellent swimmers.

Characteristics

Savannahs have larger ears and a longer neck than their domestic relative. Instead of stripes, they have leopard-type spots, a white belly and dark spots on the back of their ears similar to a leopard. When Savannahs are born they have blue eyes but when they are approximately two months old the eye color begins to change to a green or gold.