Savannah
Overview
A tall, wild-looking hybrid of the African serval and domestic cats, the Savannah is athletic, intensely intelligent and almost dog-like — it can be leash-trained and loves to fetch. It suits experienced, very engaged owners who can provide serious space, climbing and stimulation; earlier generations are demanding and may face ownership rules in some areas.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Savannah is affectionate and fine with sensible, older children. They tend to be moderately chatty and copes with some time alone. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A Savannah is generally very high energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment — wand toys, puzzle feeders and tall cat trees help burn off that energy and prevent boredom.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is wash-and-go and shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Savannah should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Striking, athletic and highly intelligent
- +Dog-like, trainable and interactive
Things to consider
- –Very high energy needing lots of stimulation and space
- –Early generations are demanding and may face ownership restrictions
Is a Savannah right for you?
A Savannah tends to be copes with some time alone and affectionate. They generally cope with the rhythms of a typical home, though no cat should be left alone for very long. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Savannah
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Savannahs good with children?
Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide they are fine with calm, respectful children. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are Savannahs affectionate?
Affectionate. Savannahs typically love close company and lap time.
Are Savannahs vocal?
Moderately chatty. They are moderately chatty.
How much grooming does a Savannah need?
Wash-and-go; shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Savannahs be left alone?
Copes with some time alone. They manage some time alone but appreciate company and enrichment.
Are Savannahs energetic or playful?
Very high energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment to stay happy.