Savannah cats are a unique breed of domestic cat that can be an intriguing and rewarding pet. These cats are a hybrid breed, originating from the crossing of an African Serval and a domestic cat. While Savannah cats are considered to be part wild, they can make excellent pets with the right care and attention from their owners.
The popularity of these cuties has grown in recent years—as more people become fascinated by their playful nature and distinctive appearance. They have tall ears, long legs, large eyes, and a spotted coat—all qualities that make them resemble cheetahs or ocelots. In a way, they look like “mini” big cats. However, it’s important for potential owners to consider all aspects before getting one: they require more special attention than other breeds due to their exotic backgrounds. These furry besties aren’t for the faint-hearted.
If you’re wondering if you can handle what a Savannah will throw down, let’s explore the pros and cons of owning one of these fascinating felines.
Savannah Cats: What Are They?
Savannah Cats are a hybrid feline that was first introduced in the 1980s when a breeder named Judee Frank crossbred a Serval with a Siamese. This pairing resulted in a kitten named Miracle, later renamed Savannah, and was the beginning of the breed’s lineage. Breeding continued, and over time, additional breeders joined in the effort to develop the lineage to what it is today.
Savannahs gained popularity after 1986 when Patrick Kelly became fascinated with them and began developing breed standards. Despite facing initial resistance from TICA, Savannah Cats eventually gained formal recognition, with the Canadian Cat Association registering them in 2006 and TICA granting them Championship status in 2012. Savannah Cats retain some physical traits of their wild Serval ancestor but are known for their loving and sociable nature with their owners.
Savannah Cat Pros
Owning a Savannah cat can be an exciting and rewarding experience. If you know what you’re getting into! This is not a partnership to enter into lightly. It is important to understand the pros and cons of owning this unique breed of felines before making such a big commitment.
There are many pros to owning a Savannah cat, and when considering whether or not this breed of cat is right for you, it’s important to consider all the positive aspects these beautiful animals can bring.
1. Good Looks
Savannah cats have distinct features, unlike any other breed of domestic cat. Not only do they stand out with their tall stature and long legs, but they also have many additional exotic characteristics. This makes them very striking animals that easily draw attention. Savannah cats are a stunning breed of feline. They have long, lean bodies, and their fur is typically a mixture of spots, stripes, and other patterns. They have big ears and piercing eyes, which give them a wild, exotic appearance that is sure to turn heads.
2. Smarts and Hearts
Savannah cats are highly intelligent and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known to be very social animals. They are often described as being more dog-like than cat-like in their behavior, as they enjoy playing fetch and going for walks on a leash.
3. Forever Furry Besties
Savannah cats are loyal companions that will follow their owners around the house and curl up in their laps for a cuddle. They are known for their loving nature and their desire to be close to their humans. They are also very communicative and will often meow or chirp to get their owner’s attention.
Savannah Cat Cons
It is essential to remember that Savannahs are not like any other domesticated cats; they have particular needs that must be met in order for them to remain healthy, happy animals. Therefore, here are some potential cons of owning a Savannah cat so that owners can make an informed decision when considering adding one to their family.
1. Expensive
Savannah cats are expensive. Due to their rarity and unique breeding, they can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $20,000, depending on their generation level. This makes them one of the most expensive cat breeds on the market. Higher generations will usually have more domestic features as well as a better temperament when interacting with humans.
2. Excessive Energy
Savannah cats are high-energy animals that require a lot of stimulation and exercise. It never stops with them. And they’re not great urban cats, either. Savannahs are not well-suited for apartment living, as they need plenty of room to run and play. Savannah cats are known for their active personalities—they tend to be more energetic than other breeds, often leaping and sprinting around the house in search of stimulation. They are also known for being very curious and can get into mischief if left unsupervised. If they don’t get the attention they need, they may become destructive.
3. Constant Talking
Savannah cats are very vocal animals and are known for their loud meows and chirps. Savannah cats have an impressive range of vocalizations that can sometimes sound like a meow mixed with a chirp or a yowl. Many owners report their Savannah cats making bird-like noises like chirps or trills, as well as hisses and loud meows when they want attention or food. Some owners even describe their Savannahs talking back to them in response to conversations! This can be a pro or a con depending on your personal preference, but it’s worth noting that they can be quite noisy.
Is it Legal to Own a Savannah Cat?
Savannah cats are legal to own in most states, but it’s important to check with your local government to ensure that they are legal in your area. You may need a permit. Some states have restrictions on owning exotic animals, and Savannah cats may fall under that category. Make sure you check local legislation on the state and county or city level. It’s also worth noting that some homeowners’ associations and rental properties may have rules against owning exotic pets.
How to Keep Your Savannah Cat Healthy, Safe, and Happy
If you decide to bring a Savannah cat into your home, it’s important to take the necessary steps to keep them in good health. They will cost you a lot to purchase—and you should protect your investment and shower them with care. With their beauty, charming personalities, and intelligence comes great responsibility—make sure they’re kept in good health, in a safe environment, and a happy state of mind. To ensure that your Savannah cat is enjoying its best life, there are some simple steps you can take to keep it adored and well-cared for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Savannah cats are an unusual and intriguing breed of feline that can make great pets for the right family. They are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal companions, but they do require a lot of stimulation and exercise. If you’re considering getting a Savannah cat, make sure you can provide them with the care and attention they need to live an enjoyable life. They have unique needs. And as always, do your research and make sure that owning a Savannah cat is legal in your area before bringing one home.
Featured Image Credit: Kolomenskaya Kseniya, Shutterstock
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