Savannah

The Savannah cat, a truly remarkable feline, is a hybrid breed developed by crossing a domestic cat with a Serval, a medium-sized wild African cat. This unique lineage results in a cat with a striking wild appearance, exceptional athleticism, and an intelligent, adventurous personality. Savannahs are not for the faint of heart; they require a dedicated owner who understands their specific needs for space, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

Origins & History

The Savannah breed originated in the United States in the 1980s, with the first recorded cross between a male Serval and a female domestic cat (a Siamese) in 1986. This initial breeding was performed by Judee Frank. The goal was to create a domestic cat with the exotic beauty and presence of a Serval, but with a more manageable temperament suitable for a pet. Early generations (F1, F2, F3) are closer to their Serval ancestors, exhibiting more pronounced wild traits and often larger sizes. Subsequent generations become more domesticated, though the breed retains its distinctive look and energetic nature. The breed gained recognition from The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2001 and was accepted as a championship breed in 2012, solidifying its place in the world of domestic cats.

Appearance

Savannahs are renowned for their exotic, wild appearance. They are typically tall and slender, with long legs, a long neck, and a relatively small head. Their most striking features are their large, upright ears, often with ocelli (light spots on the back of the ears), and their distinctive spotted coat. The coat pattern is typically black or brown spots on a lighter background, ranging from golden to silver, reminiscent of their Serval heritage. Their eyes are often bright and expressive, ranging in colour from green to gold. Savannahs vary significantly in size depending on their filial generation (F1, F2, etc.), with earlier generations being considerably larger and heavier, often weighing between 4 and 11 kg, and standing quite tall. Later generations tend to be closer in size to a large domestic cat.

Temperament & Personality

Savannahs are known for their curious, social, and highly intelligent nature. They are outgoing and adventurous, often described as having a dog-like personality due to their loyalty and tendency to follow their owners around the house. They can be very affectionate with their chosen family members, enjoying interactive play, cuddles, and even leash walks. Their intelligence means they are quick learners, but also require significant mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviours. They possess a strong prey drive and an innate curiosity, often exploring every nook and cranny of their environment. Savannahs are known for their impressive jumping ability and love to climb, often seeking out high vantage points. They can be vocal, using a variety of chirps, meows, and even some Serval-like sounds.

Can You Get a Savannah in New Zealand?

Not lawfully, as far as we can establish. The Savannah is a domestic cat × serval hybrid, and MPI's cat import rules name the Bengal as the only eligible hybrid breed — there is no exception for later-generation Savannahs. Under the Cats and Dogs 2026 import health standard (in force from 1 July 2026), any other hybrid cat is likely to be considered a new organism, which needs Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) approval before it can be brought into New Zealand; under the previous 2021 standard, which can still be used during the transition, it is not eligible for import at all. The serval itself is listed as a new organism under an EPA approval covering zoo animals held in containment, and neither NZ cat registry (NZ Cat Fancy or Catz Inc) lists Savannah breeders. If you are offered a 'Savannah' in New Zealand, ask how it entered the country and check with MPI before paying. If you love the spotted, athletic look, the Bengal is the one hybrid breed MPI's rules name as eligible for import, and it appears on both the NZ Cat Fancy breed list and the Catz Inc breeders list.

Is This the Right Breed for You?

The Savannah cat is an extraordinary pet, but not suitable for every household. They demand a significant commitment of time, energy, and resources. Ideal owners are active, experienced cat owners who can provide ample space, consistent training, and daily mental and physical enrichment. They thrive in homes where they are not left alone for extended periods and where their unique personality and needs are understood and embraced. If you're looking for a low-maintenance lap cat, the Savannah is likely not the right choice. However, Savannahs are not available in New Zealand, so the breed is not an option for Kiwi homes.