Do Savannah Cats Get Along With Regular Cats?

Savannah cats are a mix of domestic felines and African wild cats.

They are the largest domestic cat and most intelligent too, to the point that they can be taught simple tricks like jumping through hoops! Keeping these intelligent, active cats as pets can be a challenge, but they’re surprisingly adaptable with most other pets.

A Savannah cat gets along well with other domestic cats and in fact, behaves pretty much as other shorthair cats would. However, when introducing a Savannah to other pet cats, it is a good idea to do so gradually. Allow them to spend a lot of time under supervision before leaving them alone.

Savannah cats get along well with other domestic cats, in fact even enjoy their company since they are very active and have a channel to expend their energy in play rather than in destructive behavior which results out of boredom.

If you are introducing Savannahs to pet cats, you already own or are bringing in a new cat after owning a Savannah there are some steps you can take to make the new addition’s transition and adaption easy.

1. Be sure of the cat’s generation

Savannah cats are rated by a filial system that tells how removed from the wildcat genes they are. F1 is the closest to its wild ancestor and F4 are the furthest removed while still being considered a true Savannah.

Cats beyond F4 are too far removed from the Serval ancestor to be considered true Savannahs.

F1 cats are loners and more aggressive than the F4 cats. F4s are friendly, affectionate and trainable and are considered domesticated, which earlier generations are not.

It stands to reason that the earlier generations will show stronger wildcat genes, and so may not the best fit for a family that already has or plans to get more pets.

F5 onwards are not considered “true Savannahs” and are more domestic cat than Serval. However, always keep in mind these hybrids do contain wildcat genes and have been accepted as a pet breed over the last thirty-odd years.

They are not as domesticated as the cats that have lived in our homes for thousands of years.

2. Socialize your Savannah

If you’re getting a Savannah as a kitten, it is advisable to socialize it early in life. A kitten that is used to different environments and being around different species of animals (cats, dogs and birds) is less likely to take exception to them within the close confines of a house.

Socializing is easier and faster if your Savannah is the only cat brought into your house at the time.

If you’re getting two of them at the same time, they would definitely prefer each other’s company to start with, in which case getting used to and friendly with humans and other pets in the house may take time.

3. Introduce them gradually

Savannahs do have some wildcat genes in them, while some domestic cats may not be very sociable. In either of the cases, there may chances of aggression shown and it is prudent to allow short interactions until the two felines get to be friends who don’t fight.

While introducing them under supervision, make sure there is an escape route for the cat that is feeling threatened. This may be the Savannah or the other cat. In extreme cases, it may take weeks for the two cats to socialize, but by and large things aren’t this bad.

4. Give your Savannah some “me time”.

While Savannahs are social creatures that like being around other pets and their humans, we must remember they are descendants of Servals, which are loners and are territorial.

Being surrounded by humans and pets would keep this social hybrid cat happy but having wildcat genes means they can be a bit unpredictable at times. Give your Savannah some time alone, with toys or cat trees to keep them occupied.

If it is agitated by the proximity of other cats whether they are big or small, remove the hybrid from the area and put it in a room where it will be alone and safe, but with enough items around to prevent boredom, because a bored feline (especially a bored Savannah!) is a destructive feline.

5. Provide plenty of co-play opportunities

Cats need mental and physical stimulation to be healthy and happy. Different breeds require different levels of stimulation, with a Savannah needing quite a lot.

Provide your cats with toys they can play with together, initially under your supervision. Cat wands, raccoon tails, balls and motion toys are great for getting your cats used to each other in a playful, non-threatening environment.

Make sure you’re present at all times until they get used to each other, at the least tolerating the other cat if not being friendly.

6. Give the relationship time

Cats are known to be moody and this could translate into them being difficult when it comes to making new friends.

Don’t foist the newcomer onto the senior pet of the house, neither of them will appreciate it. Gradually introduce one to the other, keeping moods and fears in mind.

If they’re not taking a shine to each other from the start, give them time. Be patient and keep at it. Short durations of interaction multiple times a day and affection shared equally between the cats should go a long way in bringing harmony to your life as a pet parent.

If initial meetings go south, you could always use a spray bottle and a sharp yelp to break up a fight in the making.

7. Separate the litter boxes

There are very, very few cats in the world that will happily share their litter boxes. Litter boxes are personal spaces, and cats are possessive of their personal spaces.

Don’t make your Savannah share a litter box with another cat, it’s not a sensible idea and can make the two cats think of each other as the “space invader,” which will not end well.

A lot of experts and people who have raised cats for years say it is a good idea to have an extra litter box in the house. This will prevent territorial spats between the cats.

Two cats, three litter boxes. Simple.

The Right Time To Let Your Kitten Roam The House At Night

Kittens are curious creatures by nature. They love to roam around and explore their surroundings even at an early age. But, when exactly is the right time to let them roam the house at night?

Ideally, the right time to let your kitten roam the house at night is when it’s already been litter trained and fully accustomed to its surroundings. There is no guaranteed time frame as getting your kitten settled in is a gradual process.

Kittens are such a joy to have around, but as with any other young animal, they need to be protected and guided until they get the hang of things. With this, here are some tips on how to help your kitten adjust to its new environment.

Risks of Letting Your Kitten Roam at Night

You need to be aware that giving your kitten the freedom to roam around the house does carry its risks. Although it is relatively safer indoors than outdoors, there are still many potential dangers lurking inside your home.

You will be amazed at the trouble these tiny spunky fluff balls can get into.

1. Litter accidents around the house

One of the top risks of letting your kitten roam around the house at night on its own is having litter accidents all over your place. This is why it is crucial to have your fuzzy little bundle of love litter trained before allowing it to roam alone.

Typically, kittens are litter trained by the time they are 4 to 6 weeks of age. So, it really might take some time before your kitten gets the hang of using its litter box and eventually roam around your home alone.

2. Your kitten might get stuck in tight spaces.

Kittens are naturally inquisitive fluff balls and can easily find themselves stuck in the most unlikely of places. Since they’re pretty tiny and have awfully flexible bodies, they can find themselves trapped in tight nooks and crannies around your home.

It is very important to have your home kitten-proofed before allowing your tiny buddy to roam and explore the house. We’ll discuss more about kitten-proofing your home in a bit.

3. Your kitten might get lost.

Being the natural explorers that they are, kittens love to survey their surroundings and can easily get lost in the process. If you have a huge home, it may be difficult for you to find them in the morning.

Again, kitten-proofing your home is essential to prevent them from finding their way outdoors. It’s also advisable to keep your kitten in a confined space first to prevent it from going astray.

Precautions Before Letting Your Kitten Roam

In order to keep your tiny feline friend safe and secure, you’ll want to take extra precautions before finally letting it roam around the house alone at night. Here are some of them:

1. Kitten-proof your home

Kittens love to climb, play, and explore anything they come across with, so it’s important to make your home a safe haven for your pet. Your house is full of potential risks, so arm yourself with these simple measures to avoid untoward incidents.

Look for all possible hiding spots in your home, so you’ll know where to find your kitten once it goes missing.

Locate all potential escape routes around your home and secure it. All your windows and doors should close tightly. You should also make sure that all screens around your home fit snugly in their frames. This is also to ensure that your kitten won’t find its way outside of the house.

Put all your prized fragile items away from your kitten’s reach. Kittens are gifted with crazy acrobatic skills, so they might knock your precious collectibles by accident.

Wind up all cords and keep other dangling enticements secure. Trust me, you don’t want to keep your kitten entangled on those. It’s also best to keep them away to prevent your kitten from chewing on them.

Place all house plants out of your kitten’s way and discard all poisonous plants such as lilies, aloe vera, daffodils, sago palm, azaleas, and tulips.

Install child-proof locks on cabinet doors to prevent your kitten from exploring it.

2. Keep your kitten in a confined space.

Letting your kitten roam freely around the entire house right away is a recipe for disaster. It’s better to have a confined and controlled space for them to move around until they get completely settled in.

Gradually expand their space as they get familiarized with your home until it gets to the point when you no longer have to put boundaries.

Once they are fully accustomed, there’s no reason they can’t handle a much larger space—be it vertical or horizontal. Just make sure to get rid of all household hazards first.

3. Give your kitten a collar with a bell.

Collars with tiny bells attached to it come in really handy especially for frisky kittens. Being the energetic and inquisitive creatures that they are, kittens can easily get trapped in tight spaces around the house.

This type of collar can help you keep tabs on your kitten and track its whereabouts at home—think of it as an old school GPS. Apart from being functional, belled collars also look so adorable on kittens.

4. Introduce your kitten to other members of the household.

Apart from getting your feline friend accustomed to their new space, you also need to get your kitten familiarized with all the members of the household—and that includes other pets you may have at home.

Just make sure to keep a close eye when introducing your kitten to other pets. Expose them to each other for short periods each day and repeat until they are used to each other’s presence at home.

Letting Your Kitten Roam at Night

To wrap up, kittens are natural explorers, so letting them roam around the house is necessary for their wellness and development. However, make sure that your kitten is already litter trained and familiar with your home before allowing it to roam freely on its own.

Be patient as your new kitten adjusts to its new surroundings. It may take weeks or months, but soon enough, your tiny furry friend will be well adapted and feel so much at home.

Related Questions

What age should kittens be allowed to roam the house?

There is no fixed age as to when kittens should be allowed to roam the house on their own. They can only be allowed to roam the house alone once they have already been litter trained and familiarized with your home.

How do you leave a kitten alone?

It is important to spend a couple of minutes with your kitten before leaving it alone. Make sure to have someone look after your kitten when going out of the house for more than a couple of hours.

Should I let my kitten sleep in my room at night?

There’s nothing wrong with letting your kitten sleep in your room at night. Whatever your sleeping preference is, just make sure to avoid switching up your kitten’s sleeping arrangements because they are too sensitive to change.

10 Reasons Why Your Siamese Cat Is Lazy Or Even Lethargic

Cats make great domestic pets and are very happy living indoors with their human. Since most are commonly seen snoozing in a sunny spot or deliberately ignoring the human seeking their attention, there is a common perception that they are inactive and don’t like activity.

Siamese cats are not lazy at all. While they are mostly calm, friendly, and laid-back, they are still very active cats. It seems that there is always something they need to do and most of the time they want to involve their humans in their activities.

Siamese cats are the opposite of lazy. If you are noticing your Siamese is not as active as it should be, monitor your cat’s behavior closely and see what is causing the laziness or even lethargy.

Why is my Siamese lethargic?

Humans that belong to Siamese cats tell stories of coming home to unraveled sweaters, unrolled toilet paper, cereal boxes hunted out of cabinets and contents dumped all over the kitchen, shredded books and many more incidents where the Siamese made it clear they were active, at times too much so!

If your Siamese is not active, there could be any number of reasons, starting from the harmless (cats are moody!) to the serious such as ill-health. Infections, old age, boredom and change in weather could be among the reasons a normally active cat has become lazy.

There are steps you can take to increase activity levels for your cat once ill-health has been ruled out, but before that know what could possibly make for a lazy Siamese.

1. Ill-health

Cats can take ill easily. If you suspect your Siamese is unwell, take it to the vet and get a thorough check-up done.

The doctor will check for parasites or infections and treat the condition accordingly. Joint problems could also be a reason your normally active cat is now lazy. Correct diagnosis and treatment should have your Siamese back to its active self really soon.

2. Medication side-effects

Know how medicines make us drowsy? It’s the same for cats. If your Siamese has been on medication for any reason, they could be lethargic as a side-effect of the medicine.

Once the effects of the medication wear off, your cat should be back to its usual level of activity. However, you should check with your vet for confirmation before assuming this is reason for the lethargy.

3. Obesity

Yes, cats are prone to obesity! Since Siamese are fluffy cats, it’s easy to mistake excess weight for fluffiness.

Your Siamese could be eating more than it requires, which is a real concern if food is always available in the cat’s bowl.

On the other hand, if you’re feeding on schedule but the diet is rich in protein, the cat might still put on weight. This is because cats digest protein slowly, resulting in weight gain.

If your cat is overweight, reduce the amount of food offered till the weight comes down, after which you can maintain it by monitoring the food intake and making sure the cat is getting enough exercise to burn off the calories.

4. Old age

It’s natural for cats to slow down as they age, and your Siamese will be no different.

Just as we human slow down, cats do too. Always factor in age when considering your cat’s activity level but do schedule a visit to the doctor to rule out any other cause.

5. Boredom

Is your Siamese bored? If it is not offered mental stimulation, it is very possible for it to become lethargic and not make any attempt to be active.

Give your cat plenty of toys to play with. Something as simple as a cardboard box, toilet roll, ball of yarn and other basics will keep your Siamese happily occupied for hours while you’re away.

When you’re home, you could engage in some play with your cat using laser beams, balls, feather teasers, bells, etc.

6. Depression

Animals feel emotions and while felines do not get depressed the same way as humans, they do experience some form of it if they go through a traumatic experience.

The loss of a loved family member or fellow-pet, abandonment and an extreme change in living conditions can all trigger depression.

If your cat has gone through any of these, make an effort to spend more time with your cat, play and cuddle with it as much as it allows you to reduce any sense of abandonment so it feels loved and wanted and can come out the depression.

In extreme cases, medicines might be required to treat the problem.

7. Change in sleeping pattern

It’s normal for cats to sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day. Normally, our pets adapt to our sleeping pattern but sometimes they switch it around and spend more time prowling around the house at night and sleep during the day.

Many Siamese cat owners have woken up to a home that looks like it’s been vandalized just because their cat was awake most of the night and bored! When the cat has been this busy at night, it is to be expected that they’ll recoup by sleeping through the day!

8. Conserving energy

This is a throwback from the time of their wild hunting days when cats would sleep during the day and hunt prey at night.

This had the double advantage of avoiding the larger animals during the day that might prey on the cats themselves and also making their hunt easy because nighttime is when many smaller mammals are active.

9. Hot weather

Siamese cats have short fur and usually cope very well with heat.

If you’re living in a place with high temperatures and are noticing your cat has become lethargic, it is grooming itself more, drinking more water than normal or seeking cool surfaces to lay on, it’s feeling hot and is trying to keep its core temperature down.

You could opt to have your Siamese’s fur trimmed to keep it cool, but this method is a hotly debated one since some people say the fur is a natural temperature regulator and will keep the cat cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

10. Lack of exercise

If your Siamese is not getting enough exercise in routine, it is possible it’s gotten used to the sedentary lifestyle and isn’t interested in moving around too much.

If you have the space and budget, you could install a catio that’ll keep your cat occupied in safe and constructive exercise. If you don’t have outdoor space, an indoor cat tree or walkways are a good option.

In case you can’t manage that, a few sessions of playtime throughout the day should be enough exercise. Use feather toys and laser beams that the cat will chase until it tires, which is usually after 10 minutes of intensive play.

6 Reasons Why Your Siamese Cat Is So Skittish

Siamese cats are notorious for their playfulness towards their owners. Definitely, they are one of the best cat breeds for those who want to have companion cats. However, there are instances where they just seem to not be able to calm down. So why is your Siamese cat so skittish?

It can be due to their never-ending playfulness but at the same time, it can be due to their anxiety. The reality is, Siamese cats are one of the most anxious cat breeds. Therefore, you should be able to see the signs to know if the skittish behavior of your Siamese cat is normal.

In this article, we are going to discuss the different reasons why your Siamese cat is so skittish. Additionally, we will also give you some tips and tricks on how to correct this behavior when it becomes bothersome for you.

Gone are the days when you will get worried when your cat does not calm down, so read on!

Personality Of Siamese Cats

Before we talk about the different reasons why your Siamese cat is so skittish, let us first go over the general personality of Siamese cats. In this way, you can somehow gauge if the skittishness of your cat is normal or something that you should be alarmed about.

“We are Siamese if you please. We are Siamese if you do not please”

These lines were sung by the Siamese cats in the movie Lady and the Tramp and this is such a perfect description of their personality.

Siamese cats are opinionated and very talkative. Definitely, they will not hesitate to tell you what is on their minds and they will express this via their raspy and loud meows.

They demand your full attention and they will want you to follow their “advice.” You might think that this is such a pushy behavior but it is the opposite. In fact, they are very fond of people and they can even supervise your activities.

A siamese cat will follow you around and settle down where you sat. Moreover, they will love to sleep with you, cuddled against those warm blankets. With that said, they hate being left alone.

They can manage for your day of work, but they will get anxious when you leave them for far too long.

Also, they are very intelligent so they need a lot of stimulation. They also love to play so make sure to give them a lot of time and toys. In the event that you leave them without some form of entertainment, you might just come home with toilet paper around your living room. Yikes!

Why Is My Siamese Cat So Skittish: The Reasons

Let us now take a look at the possible reasons why your Siamese cat is so skittish. We also included some tips on how to stop this behavior, so be on the lookout for those!

1. Everything Is New

We are all familiar with this scenario, you just took home your Siamese cat and the minute you put him down, he goes rushing to every room of the house. The opposite can also happen, where he will just stay rooted on the ground.

When these two things happen, you do not have anything to worry about. He is just getting a feel of his new environment. It is best to just let him be or supervise whatever it is that he is checking out.

If he is just frozen in one spot, try to assure him that he is safe and that you are there. This will also help in establishing your bond with him.

The same goes when you move to a new apartment or house. So never force your Siamese cat to settle down or push him to be energetic. Eventually, he will come around.

2. Lack Of Stimulation

“Hooman, where are my toys?”

This might be the statement of your Siamese cat if there are not enough things to keep him occupied. Just like what we mentioned before, they are highly intelligent and playful. Therefore, they need the means to exercise these traits.

This can be done by playing with them so they also get exercise. Further, you can get them toys where they need to figure out how they can get a cat treat out.

Siamese cats are also known to play fetch like a dog. So take advantage of this to spend his excess energy. At the same time, while playing this with him, you get to bond with him.

3. They Are Being Ignored

As they are social cats, they love to engage in conversation and be at the center of attention. Therefore, if they feel like they are being ignored, they will surely do all things to capture your attention again.

They may end up wreaking havoc or the exact opposite, where they will just be withdrawn and hide somewhere.

The simple solution? Devote time to him or her. Always make sure that no matter how busy you get, you always set aside time to play or simply talk with them. This also includes the times when he or she keeps meowing at you as if they are narrating what happened during their day.

Listen to them and make sure that you respond. It may sound silly as you do not exactly know what they are saying, but they will appreciate it.

4. Lack Of Basic Needs

This is where you really have to observe when your Siamese cats become skittish because they might be telling you something. Siamese cats are known for vocalizing if there is something off in terms of providing for their needs.

For example, they may keep on being energetic and meowing right after feeding them. This may be a sign that they are still hungry and you have to give them more.

More than that, if you notice that they become anxious or excited after pooping, they might be saying that their litter is full or it needs to be cleaned.

This is what is great about Siamese cats because they will tell you right then and there what they exactly want from you. The key is understanding what they are trying to say behind their skittish behavior.

5. They Want To Annoy You

As negative as that sounds, it is highly possible. The reason behind this is that they are so intelligent so they will deliberately do things that you have previously taught them not to do.

You might notice that they will become skittish while you are training them. For others, they do the “water trick” where they will spray some water to their cats in order to dissuade negative behaviors. When you do this to your Siamese cat, you will notice that they will become skittish.

What is worse is that they will deliberately continue doing the negative behavior. This is why in training these intelligent cats, you first have to earn their respect. Further, positive reinforcement training is better than corrective training.

6. They Were Abused In The Past

If you adopted your Siamese cat (thank you for choosing to adopt!) you might notice that he is skittish. This is nothing to be alarmed about since it is expected for him to be wary of people and his surroundings.

He might have come from a household that hurt or ignored him, so he does not have enough self-esteem. As we have already established, they are very emotional and social cats so you have to make sure that you build your relationship with them before training them.

A good thing to do is to spend at least 30 minutes with him a day. You can talk to him while stroking him. In turn, he will think that you are someone he can trust and can provide for his needs. Slowly but surely, you will notice that his skittishness will disappear.

Related Questions

How do you get a skittish cat to trust you? The best way to make your Siamese cat trust you is to spend a lot of time with him. It can be through play or just plainly lounging with him. Also, make sure that you provide all his basic needs. Lastly, always talk to him.

Do Siamese cats get depressed? Yes, they are one of the cat breeds that can develop serious emotional and mental issues, especially when they get ignored for far too long. They may become skittish or totally withdrawn. So always spend time with them as they constantly need your undivided attention.

Here Is How Loyal Savannah Cats Are

If you hang around a Savannah cat long enough, you may begin to notice how loving they are to their family and this will cause you to ask, “Are Savannah Cats loyal,” and the answer is yes.

Are Savannah Cats Loyal? Savannahs are known for having the looks of a beautiful exotic Serval cat, but the personality of a dog. We all know dogs are incredibly loyal creatures and the Savannah is just like this – they absolutely love their immediate family members and but tend to be a bit cautious with strangers.  

This is the quick and easy answer to your question of the Savannah’s loyalty. But to know more, keep on reading.

Understanding the Breed Levels In Terms Of Loyalty

The breed level of the Savannah plays a role in the personality you will get. Let’s take a moment to briefly talk about these breed levels.

The F1 Savannah is the wildest of Savannahs with one parent having been a Serval. They are a bit antisocial when it comes to kids and strangers. They are smart and tend to bond with about two people.

The F2 Savannah is a very social kitty and like to socialize with their immediate family. They don’t mind kids, either. They love to play and are high energy cats. They don’t mind saying “hello” to visitors at your home.

The F3 Savannah is trademarked as being extremely bonded with their family and will socialize with strangers who come over to your home. They are very athletic in nature as all Savannahs are, and love to play. Their personality shines and they are great for families.

The F4 and F5 Savannahs are very smart, social and love to be around people. They are beautiful and great for families as their personality is friendly. As with other Savannahs, they are high energy and need lots of play time.

What Makes Them Loyal?

As we mentioned earlier, Savannahs have the personality of a dog in some ways. Their loyalty comes from proper socialization-do make sure if you plan on adopting a Savannah from a breeder you ask about socialization.

Most breeders do a great job with this, but it is better to see how the cats are socialized before you pay the high price associated with these beautiful cats.

The Savannah actually seeks out social interaction, depending on their breed level. For the F1, socializing with their primary owners might be enough.

For the F3, F4 and F5, playing with the family and going for a walk as a group might be their preferred way of socializing and demonstrating their loyalty.

(Yes, these cats enjoy going for walks on a lead-it’s a great way to socialize your Savannah and strengthen your bond also).

The breed level of the Savannah also demonstrates loyalty in the presence of strangers. F1s, for instance, might take a high perch to observe a stranger as they visit with you in your home.

This particular breed level is very cautious around strangers, just like a loyal dog might be as a means of protecting their owners.

Have a look at the Savannah cat below waking up her favorite human!

Savannah Cat: A Breed Like No Other

Loyalty is just one amazing trait of the Savannah cat. By taking a look at some of the other aspects of Savannah cats, we can come to a better understanding of these cats’ delightful personalities.

Firstly, Savannahs make wonderful friends that can provide many years of happiness and companionship to their owners. Their lifespan may range anywhere from 12 to 20 years, provided owners keep up with regular vet visits and care for them properly.

Next, their energy level is arguably the highest of all breeds of domestic cats. Owners around the world take joy in playing with their Savannah in ways that they simply cannot do with other cats.

These joyful activities lead to a greater bond and thus greater loyalty among Savannahs and their owners.

For instance, Savannah cats of all breed levels actually enjoy playing in water. A Savannah cat playing outdoors with their family on a hot summer day in a children’s pool is a big send up from a regular domestic shorthair cat, who usually stay far away from water!

They Love to Play

Playing with your Savannah will not only be a requirement but a great activity that helps them grow attached to you. These cats are known for being amazing jumpers as well as fast runners.

They often tire out other pets in the household and can be found exploring, climbing or poking around during all hours of the day.

Most of these cats do not fit the stereotype of the cat that naps all day long-so those looking for a feline who can sit calmly in your lap should look elsewhere!

Walking and Bonding

Savannahs also love putting on a comfortable harness and going outside for a walk. Walking with your Savannah is a great way to establish and strengthen your bond, plus provide your cat with much needed exercise.

The act of exploring your local park, neighborhood or even a nearby forest together is fun for your cat and you.

Savannahs are very intelligent, and you can teach them to walk around on a lead just as you might do for a dog.

Because the neck of a Savannah is not like that of a dog, opt for a cat safe harness instead of a collared leash. Pain resulting from pulling on a leash or strangulation can result if the correct harness is not used.

The key is to start slowly with your Savannah and go for short walks, gradually leading up to longer jaunts. You might even have to practice the act of putting the harness on and taking it off again just to get your cat used to it.

And lastly, don’t ever let your Savannah out to play without supervision or their harness on. They can run very fast-35 MPH-and may jump heights up to 8 feet, much higher than some fences.

Related Questions

Are Savannah Cats Protective?

Yes, Savannah cats are very loyal and attached to their owners. They may become very wary of strangers that come over, so proper socialization of your Savannah cat is recommended. This should be done during the kitten stages for best results.

Are Savannah Cats dangerous?

Most Savannah cat pets do not have much wild DNA, so they are not dangerous to their owners. In terms of their safety level, they are closer to a standard domestic cat than a wild cat. Every Savannah is different, and your cat’s personality will be unique.

Are Savannah cats loving?

Savannah cats are very loving. They can be very outgoing in terms of personality and are very smart. These cats learn new skills very quickly. They love to walk around on a leash, and this is a great bonding activity for owners of Savannahs and their cats.

Conclusion

Yes, Savannah cats are absolutely loyal and will enjoy spending time with you as their owner. Their personality has so many unique and wonderful aspects to it that have delighted and amazed owners and cat lovers around the world.

They are truly a breed like no other-between their size, wild nature and energy level they are truly in a class of their own.

Why Savannah Cats Should Not Be Left Alone

If you find out that you have to leave your home for a day or so, you may begin to wonder, can savannah cats be left alone, and the answer is: only for a little while.

Savannah Cats may be left alone for a short period of time, such as 24 hours. Besides the need for food and water, the Savannah cat has a lot of energy and tends to be destructive when left alone. Especially F1 and F2 Savannah cats should not be left alone.

That’s the short answer. But to really know why this is, and what options you have, we encourage you to keep on reading.

Savannah Cat Personality

Aside from the practical reasons why you should not leave your Savannah cat alone for a long period of time, there are aspects of the personality of this breed that indicate they need your care.

Savannahs have a very high energy level. These are not cats for the faint of heart. The Savannah sleeps less than the regular domestic cat and tends to play much more. Furthermore, these cats have a very high stamina level. Owners often get tired before their pet does!

For a standard cat, a 15 minute a day play session is great. It gets them some exercise and increases your bonding. For your Savannah, much more playtime is going to be necessary. They also require lots of attention, so be ready to provide that during playtime, too.

The behavior of your Savannah is also another reason you should have somebody check them out if you will be gone for a while. You might even find a boarding service that specializes in cats.

Some Savannah owners feel that their cats get along with dogs more than other cats. This is because Savannahs play very rough!

Dogs are better at putting up with this variety of rough play. They may even enjoy having such a playmate around. However, other pets such as regular domestic cats may find them to be way too aggressive, and injuries can result if they are not being supervised properly.

Savannahs Are Very Destructive Breed of Cat

Savannah owners know that these cats need a place to let off all their steam or else your clothing, furnishings, and carpets wind up shredded. These cats need playtime with sturdy and quality toys that they can really toss around.

Their social natures are another factor to consider. Unlike other breeds of cats, Savannahs are a very social type of feline. This may be one reason why dogs are so drawn to them. They are very curious and unafraid, much like a dog is.

Savannahs are possessive of their person but are also very open to meeting new people and strangers.  Groups of people also do not frighten them.

Savannahs love to be right in the mix, interacting with other people instead of hiding under beds or cupboards like some cats do when guests are over.

These cats will come right out to play. Like dogs, they will come to the door when you walk in and can’t wait to have your attention.

High Intelligence and Curious Nature

The high intelligence and curious nature of the Savannah is another reason why it is discouraged to leave them alone. Cats by nature can be pretty curious, but the Savannah takes it to a whole new level. Savannahs do not give up until they have their answer, or their curiosity is satisfied.

Most cats get enjoyment out of simple toys like a piece of string sticking out of a closet or a piece of paper they can shred, like junk mail. However, a Savannah will shred each and every string and paper, and their interest will not wane until the task is complete.

Savannahs can learn to slide open cupboard doors and get into places they are not supposed to be in order to find something they want. Savannahs can and will find treats, toys and other objects you attempt to hide while you are away unless they are locked up VERY tightly!

In some ways, owners say, a Savannah is really like having a small child. You must be very vigilant with them to ensure they do not hurt themselves, somebody else, or destroy your belongings.

From this, it is easy to see why having supervision for your Savannah is a good idea. These are no ordinary feline – their intelligence and energy are a force to be reckoned with.

Practical Reasons Why Your Cat Should Not Be Alone

Some owners believe that cats may be left alone so long as they have plenty of food, water, and a clean litter box.

But put yourself in the shoes of the cat. Suppose you have no access to fresh food for a few days and you have to eat stale foul-tasting morsels. Then suppose your water is old, room temperature, and may even have food crumbs in it.

Now imagine going to the bathroom only to find a toilet that is backed up.

This sounds like a nightmare. And the worst part? You are a cat and can do NOTHING about it!

And, there are some scenarios that would make you feel bad if they happened, such as the cats eating all the food on the first or second day you were gone, or the water dish being knocked over on accident.

This means no vital hydration, and possibly damaged flooring!

That’s just the surface. Suppose playtime gets a bit rough and somebody sustains an injury or gets sick?

There are some ways around this: some breeds of cats can be left with timed food dispensers and water cycling bowls that keep things fresh. You might also have one of those self-cleaning litter boxes, but even those are not perfect.

However, this is not recommended. Anything can happen in just a day, and the guilt you would feel if something happened to your beloved Savannah would not be worth it.

What Are My Options?

Give yourself and your cat the gift of peace of mind. Before you plan for a vacation or business trip, arrange care for your Savannah. You can call up friends and family to see what they can do for you and be sure you offer them compensation.

Many will do it as a favor, but always offer to pay them in some way. You might pet-sit or babysit for them when they go out of town, for instance, if you cannot afford to pay them with cash.

Alternatively, you can use the Internet to find background-checked and qualified pet sitters that are able to handle your Savannah. Make sure you inform them of the needs of the Savannah and determine if they are up for the challenge.

There are apps you can use or even helpful websites like petsitusa.com or petsitters.org to name a few. You can also ask your vet for a responsible sitter in the local area.

You also can search out a kennel that handles cats. Be sure you are honest with them about the Savannah and how they are. Chances are they will understand, but it is always best to be transparent.

Conclusion

In sum, it’s not a good idea to leave your Savannah cat alone for a long period of time. One day will not be too much trouble, but even then, it depends on your cat and how he or she plays.

Your Savannah should always have somebody around who can help them burn off their energy, supply them with fresh food and water, and of course scoop out the litter box.

They should be checked over just to be sure there are no injuries from playtime or other unexpected ailments. It is just better for everybody’s health, peace of mind and good conscience to make sure you secure care for your Savannah cat if you plan on heading out of town for a few days.

Do Savannah Cats Shed A Lot? What You Should Do

If you are interested in buying a Savannah cat or any breed, you likely wonder how much the animal actually sheds. After all, taking care of your pet’s coat is just one of the many responsibilities you will have as a cat owner.

Do Savannah cats shed a lot? Savannah cats are actually one of the breeds known to shed a rather low amount. They shed to grow in their winter coats, but it is easy to manage with proper care and the right tools such as a good cat brush.

 That’s the easy answer-but to really know how to handle a shedding Savannah, keep on reading.

How to Care for A Shedding Savannah Cat

Caring for a shedding cat is not hard but will require a bit of effort on your part. This is especially true for those of us that own Savannah cats.

Some breeds, like the F1 and F2, are not exactly lap cats and prefer to run around instead of rest. Therefore, it may be a bit hard to wrangle your Savannah for a daily brushing.

However, brushing is going to be your first line of defense if your Savannah is shedding. As a short-haired breed, you really only have to brush your cat about three times a week, whereas longer haired breeds should be brushed every day or every other day.

You can groom your Savannah using a glove designed to pick up the excess fur. On Amazon, we like the StarRoad 2 pack of gloves.

It’s a nice way to bond with your cat and they will love the feeling of being pet. The Hertzko self-cleaning slicker brush is another good way to get the excess hair off your cat and leave them feeling great.

Brushing also helps stimulate healthy coats by getting blood flowing when the brush moves over the skin.

Good Brushing Technique

A Savannah is a cat that we would refer to as having a close coat. This means their hair is on the shorter side. Therefore, these cats do best with a grooming glove most of the time.

You can put on the glove which features nubs on the palm and fingers and act as though you are petting your Savannah.

The Hertzko brush we discussed is also great because it gently rubs the skin of your Savannah, providing a massaging feel. It is also good for all hair types, so twice a week brushing will be effective and feel great for the Savannah.

Prevent Too Much Shedding In Your Savannah By Feeding The Right Food

You can take steps to prevent shedding by feeding your cat good food, and you can also promote the growth of the Savannah’s beautiful coat by choosing the right foods. Your vet can provide you some good choices for food that your Savannah will love and get lots of nutrients from.

However, if you would like to shop on your own, there are a few things you should look for. Your cat’s diet should be mostly quality protein-we’re talking about 40% at least. Fat content should be in the range of 25% to 35%.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are critical to the health of the cat’s coat, as are fish oil and antioxidants. Aside from providing your cat a coat that shines and functions well, the skin of your Savannah will be healthy, too.

Check your favorite online retailer or pet stores for options. The brand we like is Blue Buffalo – Check it out here!

Supplements can also help your cat’s coat. They contain Omega 3s and Omega 6s and can be mixed into wet food.  In terms of a brand we like, Nordic Naturals (get it here) has many favorable reviews.

Check with your vet first before you administer any of these.

Why Do Savannah Cats And Other Cats Shed?

All cats do shed, thankfully the Savannah isn’t as big of an offender as some other breeds.  This is a normal thing that happens in a cat’s daily life, and the daylight has a big impact on why it happens.

The term for it is photoperiod. The amount of hours a cat spends in sunlight each day is a catalyst for the process of shedding.  This is more prevalent in outdoor cats during spring and autumn seasons.

Indoor kitties do shed on a regular basis but do so in lower amounts thanks to the artificial lighting in houses. There are three periods of shedding known as anagen (a period of active growth), catagen (the transition period) and telogen (the resting period).

Cats, as a response to their environment, tend to get heavier coats during wintertime to keep warm. And as you might expect, their coats thin out during the summer.

Medical Reasons

Watch out for other signs that your Savannah might shed. Stress, for instance, is one reason you might see them shedding.

A cat that is sick all the time may also develop shedding and skin problems. If you notice lesions, scaling, wrinkles or bald spots, make sure your cat gets to the vet right away.

Other Reasons for Balding Cats

Perhaps you hope to get a Savannah cat but realize somebody in your household is allergic to cats. Perhaps that person is you and you think you can overcome this by way of bathing your Savannah often. After all, the beauty, joy and tough but rewarding experience is worth it, right?

Incorrect. It is admirable that you wish to overcome such an ailment but increasing the number of baths you give your Savannah will not be the answer. The urine, saliva, and dander of cats cause an allergic reaction in humans.

Bathing a cat too often can irritate the skin, causing the cat to feel discomfort. There are actually no breeds of cats that are hypoallergenic, so if you are allergic, please strongly consider if a cat of any breed is the right pet for you.

Sunburn is another reason your Savannah may shed. After all, this breed loves to be outdoors. Make sure you keep an eye on your Savannah cat during sunny days and treat them as you would a human: limit sun exposure.

LLuis Ferrer, a DVM and professor of Veterinary Dermatology at Tufts University, says that Bullfrog brand sunscreen (see it here) is tolerated by cats.

Are Savannah Cats Hypoallergenic?

No cat breed is actually hypoallergenic. There are no scientific findings that support any cat breed being hypoallergenic. Therefore, it is not recommended to buy this breed if you are severely allergic to cats.

Conclusion

Savannah cats are advantageous in many ways, one of which is the fact that they do not shed as much as other breeds. Their coats are reminiscent of wild cats and are absolutely beautiful.

Good care, feeding, and monitoring of your Savannah’s coat will make sure it remains as lovely as ever.

Why Savannah Cats Are Not Lap Cats

A highly energetic Savannah is capable of giving an abundant amount of affection via headbutts, enthusiastic meowing, and following you around the house. But are Savannah cats lap cats? Do they enjoy being warm and cozy in the lap of their pet-parent?

Most of the Savannah cats are not lap cats. Since they exhibit an active nature, holding steady at one place might seem restrictive to them. Their curious ears tingle at every noise and movement, so it is difficult to keep them in your lap for long. However, they enjoy being petted and adoring you in a distance.

All Savannahs are not the same. Their generational gaps make a big difference in their temperament. Which generation of Savannah is more likely to tolerate your display of affection? How do we make them a little more tolerant of our love language?

Understanding Temperamental Difference Through Generation Gap

Savannah cats are an offspring of an African Serval mated with a domesticated cat. The first litter that came out of this union was categorized as F1.

When F1 mates with another domesticated cat, they carry forward a generation with a litter of F2 Savannah cats and this process goes on till F8.

F here denotes Filial generation and the numeral tells us how close they are to their wild genes. An F1 generation of Savannah will retain 50%-75% of their wild genes.

The wild gene makes it harder for a pet-parent to tame them. This also gives them an unpredictable temperament. The percentage lowers as the generation moves forward.

F1 and F2 generation of Savannahs are more socially reserved and have retained most of their wild genes than the others. They are supposed to be in a household where people know how to ethically tame a wild animal. This generation is not for everyone.

However, F3-F5 generation lies somewhere in the middle range, having 50-50 of both domestic and wild traits.

F5 to F8 will be a lot tamer and a lot more social having the least amount of wild traits. This makes it easier to train them.

They Might Not Like Sitting On Your Lap – They Will Probably Do This To Show You Love

Be it F1 or F8 generation of Savannah, they all love to play! Most of them like to play roughhouse, exhaust themselves physically, and be curious about the things around them.

They definitely don’t like to be bored. It is important to them that they remain engaged physically and mentally.

Being an active breed, they are going to remain active until the end of their time. If you cannot match up to their activity level, then do not adopt them.

They are generally friendly to people and pets. Only F1 and F2 generation reserve their love and trust to one or two people.

They all love to be petted and would give you affectionate head-butts. They will also chase you around like you mean the world to them. They will never be tired for a playing session.

At the end of the day, they might snuggle up just right beside you. They also enjoy outdoors and can be leash trained.

They are highly intelligent and will know their way around most of the things. They will quickly figure out how to open drawers, take the lid off and open doors with their paws. It is important to childproof your home.

Do not let them out without a leash. They tend to get curious and would get lost in the outside, diminishing their chances of coming back.

Finding Middle Ground To Difference In Display Of Affection

There is one thing that all the generations of Savannah loathes, being picked or restricted in any way. Their curious nature perceives it as a threat to their freedom.

It is quite predictable that your Savannah wouldn’t appreciate being ‘held down’ in a hug. They like to display love in their own terms.

However, making them tolerate your display of affection for 5 minutes is the middle ground that they can submit to. Making that transition will take a bit of effort from your side.

If you are up for a challenge then here is how you can make it happen.

1. Start with petting them. Pet them from their head to tail. Repeat this as frequently as you can. Make them comfortable with your touch. This is the first step in breaking the ice.
2. Play with them and make them come to your lap by directing playthings there. It might be uncomfortable with F1 to F3 cats since they are bigger in size than an average-sized domestic cat.
3. When they sit on your lap, give them a treat and pet them. It doesn’t matter if it starts with 10 seconds, it should start anyhow.
4. With enough patience and training, you will reach the 5-minute mark of affection.

One should never force their love on a cat, which they do not approve of. You need to respect their space and pace.

If you force them, they will feel more repelled by the action. This will be counter-effective. Also, do not punish them if they do not choose to come to your lap.

Personal Experiences Of Savannah Cats Owners – Lap cats after all?

There are a lot of forums where we found various Savannah parents’ experiences on taming them to be a lap cat. Here are a few pearls of wisdom and hilarity that they have to share.

Jeburr27 on SavannahCatChat has two Savannahs – one of them being a cuddly one and another who plays by his own rules. However, neither of them likes to be picked up or carried.

PolinaKarakostova, who has a pure F3 along with one big dog, two cats, and an African hedgehog, has penned down her experience on Quora.

She has observed that Savannah cats are not generally a lap cat but they are affectionate in other ways such as giving you company on your couch to chasing you around the house.

Another user on SavannahCatChat, Brigette Cowell, has a pearl of wisdom to share.

She is affirmative that Savannahs are not lap cats because they do not like staying put in one place for hours. She also enlightened the readers that a high energy kitten/cat, like Savannahs, would prefer playing as a bonding activity more than cuddling.

However, after exhausting themselves, they will snuggle right next to you.

Will My Savannah Never Sit On My Lap?

Just because Savannah cat’s are not known for being lap cats it doesn’t mean that your Savannah cat will never enjoy sitting on your lap and cuddling with you. It just means that you should not expect your Savannah cat to be like a Persian cat, for example.

Savannah cats love action and playing, but they also love their owners and being near them. Enjoy the short time it lasts. After a short while, they will want to play again. Just have a look at the video below!

Related Questions

Can Savannah cats live with domesticated cats? Savannah cats can live with other domesticated cats, especially if they have the same energy level. If they have a different temperament, make sure that you slowly introduce them to each other and make them familiarize with each other’s presence.

Do Savannah cats love to cuddle? While they are not a lap cat, they will love to snuggle beside you during the night. Some Savannah cats might prefer cuddling and some may not. This factor is entirely dependent on their personality and whom they like to cuddle with.

Can I let my Savannah cat outside? It is not recommended that you let them out on their own. Since they have a curious nature, it is easier for them to get lost while chasing something. This becomes especially dangerous in a busy city setting or in the wild. Always leash train them if you intend to take them out.

Are Savannah Cats Good Hunters? 5 Facts You Must Know

An article at Daily Mail states that pound-for-pound cats are better at hunting than tigers! Domesticated cats are good hunters, nevertheless. But when we have a Savannah, who is a hybrid between a domesticated cat and a wild African Serval – does their trait make them exceptionally good hunters?

The answer is a resounding yes – Savannahs are good hunters, getting the best of both worlds from the genes of African Serval and domesticated cat. F1-F3 generations of Savannahs retain more of their wild gene and physical features of African Serval. Hence, they are better and more aggressive hunters than F4 and beyond.

Now, these hunting skills can be a boon and a bane for their pet parents. If their hunting needs are not satisfied, an indoor-bound Savannah can get bored and aggressive. How do we solve this issue?

1. Features That Makes Savannahs Good Hunters

Savannah’s endowed physical features are passed down from African Servals. The only thing that they get from their domesticated parent is their tamable temperament.

This combination makes them fit to be a pet while retaining their exotic and active physical features.

Savannah cats have long back legs than their front legs, making them an excellent jumper. They can stand on their hind legs to jump as high as 8-11 feet.

This makes them adept in hunting preys both large and small – even flying ones and those in the burrows.

If we observe the hunting skills of an African Serval in a wild setting, we can know a lot more about our very own Savannahs. African Servals are successful in half of their attempts at hunting.

Their success rate ranges from 50%-62%, which jumps their rank in being the most efficient hunters, even better than a cheetah! Their average number of kills in a 24-hour time is 15-16 preys.

African Servals also have a good ultrasonic hearing.

Their hunting strategy is generally taking a giant leap on their target and biting its neck while it is trapped under their front paws. This makes the job more efficient and quick. These same traits are passed down to a Savannah, be it of any generation.

Do yourself a favor: have a look at the video below of two Savannah cats (F5) hunting. Their focus, dedication, and their movement are just fascinating.

2. Wildness And Hunting Behavior – Understanding Their Generational Gap

Every Savannah is distinguished by their filial generation number. It starts from F1 (filial generation 1) to F6 or even F8 in some cases.

The F1-F3 generations of Savannahs retain most of their wild genes and are considered wild in some states. F4-F6/F8 are considered to be more domestic.

The first litter that we get after we breed an African Serval with a domesticated cat is of the F1 generation. They will have 50% of the wild gene in them.

When these F1 generation cats will mate with another set of domesticated cats, they will reproduce the F2 generation of Savannahs. They will have 30%-25% of their wild genes.

This cycle will go on and on till we get F6 or F8 generation of Savannahs. As we leap forward in the generation, their wild temperament and genes start to become less and less dominant.

This will only leave us with Savannahs that have retained some of the physical features of a Serval and has the obedience of a domesticated cat.

Also, it is important to note that F1 to F3 generations of Savannahs are generally bigger in size. Moving forward from F3 generation, we can notice their size is reduced, as they breed further. So an F1 generation of Savannah is bigger than an F6 generation of Savannah.

3. What Happens If They Can’t Hunt?

The pros of having a Savannah are that they are highly intelligent, quick-witted, and entertaining. Being obedient is not their best streak, especially when we talk about F1 to F3 generations of Savannah.

From F4 to further, they exhibit more trainable temperament. Nevertheless, they all are prone to get bored!

If you cannot provide them a mentally and physically stimulating environment, they will start to show aggressive behavior. Aggression is more evident in F1 to F3 generations than the others when bored.

Others might retort to destructive behavior to entertain themselves. That is why it is important to be up for this challenge when adopting a Savannah.

If you have ample of time, patience, and energy, with a knack to handle some wildness, then F1 to F3 Savannah cats will be ideal for you.

But if you have a lack of sufficient time, patience, or energy to deal with a hyperactive Savannah, then F4 to further generations will suit you best.

From taking them out on a leash, playing fetch to keeping them entertained with toys, it all works for a Savannah! You can invest in sturdy and entertaining toys such as remote control ones made with durable material or even a fishing pole toy to keep them jumping around.

Serval – Every savannah cat is partly serval

4. Do Savannah Cat’s Hunt Smaller Children Of The Family?

It is advised that you keep the F1-F3 generation of Savannahs away from a household with kids. They are not dangerous per se but they still have some unpredictable temperament.

These Savannahs usually are very territorial and have a need to hunt. If you have babies and small kids, keep them away from these cats.

This is not the same case when we talk about F4 to F8 generation of cats. They are friendlier and social. Also, they tend to be more trainable and tamable. They fit the best with people who have kids and babies. They tend to be of smaller size than F1-F3 generations.

However, it is important to note that every Savannah wants to feel included and entertained. A bored and ignored Savannah will look like a sorry state of affair.

5. Could A Savannah Hunt Other Pets In The Household?

Savannahs have dog-like qualities when it comes to being friendly, playing fetch, swimming, and being leash-trained. They will do well with dogs. You only have to make sure that the dog you have has an equal temperament and energy level as Savannah.

When it comes to cats, Savannahs do well with other cats too. However, bigger ones such as F1-F3 generation of cats tend to chase away or irritate smaller and low-activity cat. Make sure to match their temperaments before you adopt a Savannah or another cat.

Savannahs are not compatible with smaller prey animals such as rodents, reptiles, hamsters, and birds. They will get curious and will try their hand on catching them just for fun.

This will be traumatizing and deadly for smaller pets. Keep them away from smaller animals or you can avoid having a Savannah for your home.

Related Questions

Will Savannah cats run away? Yes, Savannahs are curious by nature and hence, shouldn’t be let out without a leash. They are supposed to be indoors, as they are oblivious to the wild or a city setting, which can be dangerous for them. From cars to wild animals, all pose a danger for a Savannah.

Are Savannah cats dangerous? No, most of the Savannah cats are not dangerous. However, F1-F3 still have their wild gene dominant in their blood. This makes their temperament a little unpredictable and aggressive. But they do not pose a threat as a feral animal.

How high can Savannah cats jump? A Savannah cat can jump as high as 8 feet (2.5m) from a standing position. This makes them excellent at jumping over your cabinets, refrigerators, or pawing off a treat from your hand. This trait makes them a good hunter and also a notorious cat.

These 4 Facts Show That Savannah Cats Act Like Dogs!

Watch the mannerisms of a Savannah cat for a little while, and you begin to notice their behavior reminds you of another animal you know-a dog!

Do Savannah Cats Act Like Dogs? Yes, compared to other cat breeds, they do act like dogs. They display a love for water, enjoy plenty of exercise and active play, are known to bring their owners cat toys, and display lots of affection toward other people. These are traits many of us would associate with a dog instead of a cat.  

The Savannah is certainly its own unique breed of cat. To fully understand their behavior,  you have to understand the differences between an F1 and an F5 savannah. Keep on reading to learn about that and what kind of dog-like behavior these cats show.

Breed Differences

So let’s talk about the breed differences first and get to the dog-like behavior after that.

The personality and mannerisms of your Savannah cat will depend on their breed differences. We will break them down now with a bit of information about each and what you can expect from your particular cat’s generation.

The Savannah is a relatively new breed, the first kitten having been born on April 7, 1986. An African Serval was crossbred with a domestic cat and the offspring was named Savannah.

This first generation displayed the traits of the common domestic cat with the African Serval. In 2012, the International Cat Association finally accepted the breed as official.

The reason you see “F” is to show you how far removed the cat is from its Serval originations. Here is a listing to give you a better idea:

F1 means one parent was a serval-57% Serval

F2 means one grandparent was a serval-35% Serval

F3 means one great grandparent was a serval-21% Serval

F4 means one great great grandparent was a serval-16% Serval

F5 means one great great great grandparent was a Serval-11% Serval

F1 Savannahs

The males in this group weigh about 17 to 25 pounds, and the females about 13 to 19 pounds. These cats are relatively easy to keep in your home. They will use the litter box just as you would expect a cat to do, and with training and proper toys, won’t destroy the house.

They are friendly cats that will bond with about one or two individuals and tend to stay away from strangers.

They have a super amount of energy and may enjoy walking outside on a lead with a harness. They love to check out and play with water-garden hoses, ponds, and even the tub are interesting to an F1.

The video below shows an F1 savannah cat walking on a leash. Weird-looking dog, right? Haha!

F2 Savannahs

Males in this group are about 16 to 25 lbs., and females about 12 to 16 pounds. These cats are quite social and love to hang around immediate family, even kids.

They love to play around for hours and love to be pet. Although a bit shy at first, these Savannahs do warm up to visitors in the home but tend to keep their distance, “observing”. With proper litter training, they use the box as you would expect.

Want to see how dog-like F2 savannah cats are? Just watch the video below!

F3 Savannahs

For this group, males weigh about 14 to 20 pounds, while females are about 10 to 13 pounds. This level loves to be with their family and are quite bonded with them.

They also love to be social with strangers, too. They may be lap kitties, one moment sitting with you and the next playing around just as you would expect of a kitten.

These are the best of both worlds: Owners get the beautiful wild look of the Savannah but the personality of a family cat.

F4 and F5 Savannahs

The weights of the males (14-20 lbs.) and females (10-13 lbs.) are the same as the F3. The personality and temperament is nearly identical to the F3, also. The difference is in the energy level-this type is very active and outgoing.

Also, this level of Savannah is considered highly intelligent and will amaze (and possibly tire out) their owners with how smart and playful they are. They are pleasant and sweet cats.

Why Are They Like Dogs? 4 Facts!

Now that you have a good understanding of the Savannah cat personality, we can understand a bit more about what it is these cats do that make them like dogs.

Firstly, it is important to understand the size of the Savannah. These cats are very big, and to somebody who does not know about this breed, they may think you are keeping an exotic animal in your home! For example, an F1 will measure about 14 to 17 inches tall.

Savannahs not only mimic the size of a small dog; they have the big heart commonly associated with the canine breed. Their loyalty is unmatched, and some are even known to follow the owners around the home, even into the shower.

And much like a dog, they can get pretty noisy.

Most cats are known for being on the quiet side, save for a few breeds. The Savannah, on the other hand, may be known to howl during the night.

1. They Love the Water

Indeed, we have mentioned this, but it’s amazing: The Savannah is one of few cat breeds that really love to be in the water. Much like dogs enjoy playing in creeks, plastic kiddie pools, and the sprinkler, the Savannah loves it, too.

Most cats will gingerly take a bath when it is time to do so-or outright refuse-but the Savannah will treasure her bath or water time.

You can find plenty of evidence of this-simply search for “Savannah cats in water” and enjoy several cute photos of these cats getting ready for the bath, playtime in the pool, or even enjoying time on a boat.

2. Savannahs Play Fetch

One really cool thing about Savannahs is that they enjoy playing fetch. Some owners report that they required no teaching-their cats naturally wanted to play the game using various toys their owners had picked up for them.

It is indeed a fun and entertaining way for your Savannah to enjoy time with you and bond with your family.

You can search for this using your favorite search engine and you will see plenty of videos of these cats having fun retrieving their favorite toys. And like dogs, they love to play for hours on end-so be ready for this high energy cat!

3. They Walk on A Leash

As shown above, Savannahs love to walk on a leash just like a dog does. Of course, this is not as easy as it would be for a dog-Savannahs are still cats, after all-but it can be done. Savannahs love to be out in the world exploring around and having them on a leash is the way to go.

Make sure you use a collar or better yet, a harness, that will be comfortable for the Savannah cat’s neck. The neck of a Savannah is not as thick as that of a dog, so it’s important to keep their comfort in mind. Also, they may not take to a harness as well as a dog might.

You should begin by practicing putting on and taking off the harness. Make sure you praise your Savannah for being good during this practice. Then, you can move on to short walks with the leash around the backyard or the house.

4. They Love to Play Outside

Do not leave your Savannah alone outside. Owners of dogs sometimes fence in their backyard so the dog can run around freely.

However, a Savannah cat can run up to 35 miles an hour and is capable of jumping up to eight feet, taller than the average fence. These animals are very curious, and if strayed too far away from their home, may not be able to find their way back.

Much like dogs enjoy chasing squirrels and cars, Savannahs love to see what’s going on in the world around them and should always be on a leash when they play outside. Aside from hazards like cars, there are people who would steal your cat to simply make a profit off its beauty.

Conclusion

The Savannah is one of the most beautiful, intelligent and interesting cats you will ever have the pleasure of knowing. To own one is not for the faint of heart and requires lots of work, but the rewards are numerous when it comes to their intelligence, loyalty and high levels of energy.