10 Essential Facts About Savannah Cats Before You Buy

The Savannah cat is a captivating hybrid breed, born from crossing a domestic cat with the wild African Serval, giving it a striking appearance and intriguing temperament that sets it apart from typical domestic cats.

Before bringing one home, it’s important to understand the unique aspects of owning a Savannah cat to ensure responsible ownership and a harmonious relationship.

1. Savannah Cats Have a Wild Ancestry with the Serval

The breed’s defining feature is its wild heritage. The Savannah cat is a hybrid specifically developed by breeding domestic cats with the Serval, a medium-sized wild African cat known for its tall, lean body, large ears, and spotted coat. This wild blood gives Savannah cats their distinctive appearance and energetic personality.

2. Siamese Cats Play a Key Role in Their Domestic Heritage

Alongside their wild ancestry, Savannahs commonly have Siamese lineage which contributes to their sleek coat and sociable nature. This combination of wild and domestic traits creates the breed's unique look and behaviour.

3. Generation Levels Are Expressed Through “F” Numbers and Matter a Lot

Savannah cats are classified by "F" numbers that indicate how closely related they are to their Serval ancestor:

• F1: Direct offspring of a Serval and domestic cat – highest wild content, tends to be largest and needs special care and licensing.
• F2: One Serval grandparent; more domesticated but still retains strong wild traits.
• F3+: Later generations with decreasing wild DNA, considered more suitable for typical domestic living.

Lower "F" numbers mean a strong wild side, often requiring more specialised care and legal compliance in some areas.

4. Savannah Cats Are Not GCCF Registered But Recognised by TICA

In the UK, Savannah cats aren’t recognised by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) but are registered with The International Cat Association (TICA). This is an important distinction for prospective owners interested in pedigree verification and responsible breeding.

5. Popular Yet Rare: The Savannah Is the UK’s 8th Most Popular Breed

Despite being relatively new and expensive, the Savannah has grown steadily in popularity in the UK, ranking eighth among cat breeds. However, they remain rare compared to typical moggies and other well-established breeds.

6. High Cost Means Careful Consideration Is Needed

Owning a Savannah cat requires significant financial investment. The average price for a TICA-registered Savannah in the UK is around £1,380, with some unregistered cats costing about £982. Prices for early generation F1s can be much higher due to their rarity and specialised care needs.

7. Complex and Active Temperament Requires Experienced Owners

Savannah cats are intelligent, outgoing, and highly energetic. Their loyalty to their owners is often compared to that of dogs, as they tend to follow their people closely. However, they can be demanding, independent, and require lots of physical and mental stimulation, making them a challenge for first-time cat owners.

8. They Are Larger Than Average Domestic Cats

Males can weigh up to 7kg or more, especially in earlier generations like F1 and F2, with some reaching 9kg. Their large size and energetic nature mean they need ample space and safe environments to thrive.

9. Legal Status Varies by Country and Generation

In the UK, owning F1 Savannah cats requires a Dangerous Wild Animal (DWA) license due to their high Serval content and wild nature. Later generations (F2 and beyond) are usually legal without special permits. However, ownership of Savannahs is illegal or restricted in some countries such as Australia and certain US states. Prospective owners should always check local laws before purchasing.

10. Commitment to Research and Preparation Is Essential

Savannah cats need dedicated owners who understand their special requirements in terms of care, environment, and legalities. Whether you are experienced with cats or a newcomer, extensive research and conversations with reputable breeders are vital before deciding to buy a Savannah cat.

Responsible ownership means providing a safe, stimulating home and recognising the needs arising from their exotic background.

Questions to Ask When Buying a Savannah Cat

Quick Answer: When considering a Savannah cat, ask about the cat’s generation (F-number), health history, breeder reputation, legal requirements, and care needs.

These questions help ensure you are well-informed:

• What is the Savannah’s F-generation number?
• Is the cat registered with TICA?
• Does the breeder provide health screenings and guarantees?
• What are the local laws regarding Savannah cat ownership?
• What is the cat’s temperament like, and what environment suits it best?

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Savannah Cat in the UK?

Quick Answer: Savannah cats can cost from approximately £982 to over £1,300, with prices higher for earlier generations.

This cost reflects their rarity, hybrid status, and care complexity. Always budget beyond purchase price for food, vet care, and enrichment.

Is a Savannah Cat a Good Family Pet?

Quick Answer: Savannah cats can be suitable for families with older children and experienced cat owners but may be too demanding for households with very young children or first-time owners.

They thrive best with plenty of interaction and mental stimulation and do not like to be left alone long. Their temperament and needs mean dedicated time is essential, making them better choices for committed, experienced owners.