Savannah Cat: The Fascinating and Exotic Feline
If you are looking for a unique and exotic-looking pet, you might want to consider bringing home a Savannah cat. These felines are a result of crossbreeding domestic cats with African servals, a wild cat found in Africa. This has made them a popular choice for people looking to experience a little bit of the wild, but in a domesticated setting.
Savannah Cat History
The Savannah cat was first developed in the 1980s, by an American breeder named Judee Frank. She crossed an African serval called “Ernie” with a Siamese cat, producing the first F1 (first-generation) Savannah cat. She continued to breed Savannah cats by crossing F1 females with domestic cats, creating F2 and later generations. Later on, other breeders joined in, working to create a breed that was both domesticated and had the distinctive wild appearance of a serval.
Savannah Cat Temperament
Savannah cats are known for their outgoing and curious personalities. They are very energetic and love to play, often following their owners around like dogs. They can also be vocal, making chirping and trilling sounds, reminding their owners of their wild ancestry. Savannah cats are often compared to dogs in terms of their behavior and loyalty to their owners. They have been known to learn tricks and even enjoy walks on a leash.
Savannah Cat Characteristics
Savannah cats are unique in their appearance, with long, lean bodies, tall ears, and distinctive spots and stripes. Their coat comes in a variety of colors, including silver, black, brown, and gold. They have a long neck and legs, and their fur is soft and short. Some Savannah cats also have a “hooded” appearance, where the fur on top of their head forms a sort of “hood.”
Savannah Cat Lifespan
Savannah cats have a lifespan of around 12-20 years, which is typical for a domesticated cat. However, they are prone to some health issues, which we will discuss later. With proper care, diet, and exercise, they can live long, healthy lives.
Savannah Cat Colors
There are several colors and patterns that Savannah cats can come in. Here are some of the most common:
– Brown Spotted Tabby
– Silver Spotted Tabby
– Black
– Smoke
– Marble
Savannah Cat Shedding
Despite their short, soft fur, Savannah cats do shed. However, they shed less than some other breeds because their coat is not very dense. They will need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting and to help remove loose fur.
Savannah Cat Health
Savannah cats are generally healthy cats, but they can be prone to some health issues that are common in both domestic and wild cats. These can include:
– Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
– Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
– Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
– Gingivitis
It is important to have your Savannah cat regularly checked by a veterinarian to catch any health issues early on.
Savannah Cat Best Cat Food
One thing that you need to keep in mind when it comes to Savannah cats is their diet. Because their wild side is still present, they require a diet that is high in protein to maintain their energy. You should also avoid feeding them a diet that is high in carbohydrates, as they can’t digest them very well. Look for cat food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish.
Products for Savannah Cat
If you are looking for products for your Savannah cat, make sure to choose ones that are specifically designed for their needs. Some products that may be helpful include:
– A scratching post or tree
– A harness and leash for walks
– High-quality cat food
– A bed that is large enough to accommodate their long bodies
– Toys that allow them to satisfy their need to hunt and play
Conclusion
A Savannah cat can be an excellent choice for people looking for a unique and exotic pet. With their distinctive appearance and outgoing personality, they will quickly become a cherished member of your family. However, it is important to keep in mind that they require a diet that is high in protein and have some possible health issues to watch out for. With the proper care, diet, and attention, your Savannah cat can live a long, happy life.