Large breeds
Savannah: personality, life span and weight
The Savannah began as a cross between the serval, a wild African cat, and domestic cats. It has long legs, large ears and a spotted coat, and size and temperament vary a lot by generation.
- Energetic
- High jumper
- Strong bond
Savannah at a glance
- Adult weight
- 5–11 kg
- Life span
- 12–20 years
- Shedding
- low
- Activity
- active
- Origin
- United States (a cross between the serval and domestic cats, 1980s)
- Coat
- Short coat with black spots on a gold or silver ground, and large upright ears
Savannah personality
Very active and clever. It bonds deeply with its family and some accept leash training. It can jump close to two metres from a standstill, so check the layout of your home in advance.
Coat care and daily care
It needs plenty of space and intense play every day. Rules for keeping and importing early generations close to the serval (F1 to F4 and so on) differ by country and region, so check the regulations before you adopt.
Health problems Savannah keepers should know
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)Regular heart checks are recommended.
- Differences by generationEarly generations differ in size and dietary needs, so consult a vet with experience of the breed.
These are problems reported relatively often in the breed. It does not mean every cat will have them. If a symptom worries you, see a vet.
Real Savannah photos from cat keepers
Photo tip A standing profile that shows the long legs and large ears looks most like a Savannah. Use a fast shutter or burst mode.
There are no public records yet. Your cat could be the first.
Add my cat and start a diarySavannah questions and answers
- How long do Savannah cats live?
- An indoor Savannah typically lives about 12–20 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.
- How much does an adult Savannah weigh?
- A fully grown Savannah usually weighs 5–11 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.
- Do Savannah cats shed a lot?
- Shedding is low. Short coat with black spots on a gold or silver ground, and large upright ears. It needs plenty of space and intense play every day. Rules for keeping and importing early generations close to the serval (F1 to F4 and so on) differ by country and region, so check the regulations before you adopt.
- What is the Savannah personality like?
- Very active and clever. It bonds deeply with its family and some accept leash training. It can jump close to two metres from a standstill, so check the layout of your home in advance.