Savannah Cats Large Breed Domestic Animals

Savannah cats are a breed of domestic cats which are a cross between a Serval (a type of African wild cat) and a domestic cat. They are amongst the large breeds of domesticated cats. The largest of these cats are the F1 hybrids and F2 hybrids largely due to the genetic influence of the African Serval.

Male Savannah cats are known to be larger than the female species. Early generation savannahs generally weigh around 10 to 25 pounds on an average. Sex and generation may also play a vital role in determining the average size of these cats. The largest of this species is usually the F1 specie of male cats. Since many random factors play an important part in Savannah hybrid genetics, large variations in size can be found even in a single litter.

An individual savannah's look depends to a large extent on generation. Most savannah cats have a wild look. Another important factor which influences its look is the domestic breed which is used. Some of the domestic breeds that are permitted by The International Cat Association are the Ocicat, the Domestic Shorthair, the Egyptian Mau and the Oriental Shorthair. The wild look of a savannah cat is often attributed to the presence of several characteristics of the Serval.

Savannah cats are tall and leggy. In a standing position, their shoulders are generally lower than their hind-end. Their heads are more tall than wide and their neck is long and slender. Their ears have a central light band bordered by brown, black or grey color at the back, called ocelli. The tail is short and characterized by black rings and a black tip. As a kitten, their eyes are blue and adults may have brown, gold or green eyes.

A filial number marks each generation of savannah cats since they are produced by crossbreeding a domestic cat breed and Servals. The F1 generation is a cross between a Serval and a domestic cat. They are about 50% Serval. The offspring of the F1 generation which is 25% Serval has a Serval grandparent and is named the F2 generation. There is even a F3 generation which has a Serval as its great grandparent. This generation is 12.5% Serval.

Savannah cats have a friendly disposition, are self assured, active and playful. They are described as being as loyal as dogs. These cats are also intelligent and extremely inquisitive by nature. These cats are known for their jumping abilities. Some of them can jump up to 8 feet from a standing position. Some savannahs are known to be extremely sociable and friendly with new people. A factor in the sociability of these cats is their exposure to pets and unknown people. Savannah