Savannah (Ashera)

Breed Description

The pursuit of breeding a specific type of cat is not new, and from time to time, we discover the emergence of entirely new exotic breeds. At the end of the 20th century, British breeder Judee Frank was the first to attempt to create a cat resembling a serval, but with entirely domestic habits. She crossed various spotted domestic short-haired cats with servals. However, the initial results of the breeding did not yield the desired outcome due to the differences in behavior and physiology between servals and domestic rat catchers. After many unsuccessful attempts and a rather lengthy period of breeding, she finally succeeded in producing offspring that resembled domestic cats more in appearance and behavior.

Savannahs quickly attracted the attention of cat lovers with their exotic and wild appearance. In 2001, the International Cat Association (TICA) recognized them and began assigning them registration numbers. Since then, the popularity of savannahs has only grown, despite the fact that the possibility of keeping them as pets may be restricted by legislation in some countries.

Although these unique cats combine the elegance of the wild with the friendliness of a domestic pet, choosing a kitten from a cattery is quite challenging. It’s not just that the savannah ranks among the most expensive cats in the world, with prices in Russia starting at 450,000 and reaching up to 1 million rubles. The main difficulty lies in their challenging breeding, and there is a noticeable shortage of available kittens for purchase. You will find a better selection of catteries in Russia where you can buy a savannah and be assured that it is a purebred domestic cat with the appearance of a leopard, free from health and psychological issues. Additionally, you will receive all the necessary recommendations for caring for such a unique animal.

In May 2012, the savannah was granted champion status and became a hit, gaining enormous popularity in Canada, Sweden, Austria, France, Italy, Germany, and Russia. Magazines in South America, Italy, Germany, and Malaysia continue to promote the breed and publish informational materials about savannah cats in their pages. However, compared to most breeds registered with TICA, it is still in its infancy, though it continues to gain popularity and recognition as breeders work on improving their breeding programs and their cats.

Appearance

Savannahs are beautiful, very slender, and graceful, making them the most expensive cats in the world, so it’s unlikely you’ll see advertisements for selling kittens of this breed. They can only be purchased from accredited catteries.

Typically, everyone is interested in their size and weight. It’s worth noting that savannahs are very tall and have a rather elongated body with an elegant long neck. Because of this feature, they seem larger and heavier than they actually are.

As an experiment at a TICA exhibition, spectators were asked to guess the weight of an F3 male. Most estimated between 8 to 10 kg, but the actual weight was just under 6.5 kilograms.

F1 and F2 savannahs are the largest, but that doesn’t mean subsequent generations can’t have similar parameters.

For comparison: the average height of F1 males is 42 cm, while females are about 40 cm, weighing 11 kg and 8.5 kg respectively. The parameters are similar for F2 savannahs: males are 38 cm with a weight of 7.5 kg, and females are 35 cm weighing 6 kg. Gradually decreasing in size, F8 generation typically weighs around 5 to 5.5 kg at a height of about 28 to 30 cm.

Despite their many advantages, the average lifespan of these unique pets is very high and may reach 17 years or more.

Отличительные черты

Голова

In proportion to body size, it is small and wedge-shaped. It resembles an equilateral triangle, with the lateral edges descending along the jawbones and the base following the brow ridges. If the lateral lines are extended, the forehead with the ears forms a rectangular outline.

Морда

Narrowed, any bends are unacceptable. The vibrissa pads are hardly pronounced. The forehead in profile is straight or may be slightly convex from the crown to the brow ridges, then may have a slight concave curve down to the tip of the nose. Upon frontal examination, the nose bridge is wide at the top and slightly curves down at the tip.

Уши

Very large, high-set, and wide at the base. Their tips are rounded and positioned vertically. Moreover, the outer part of the ear's base, according to the standard, should not be lower than the level of the eyes, while the inner part of the base is located close to the top of the head.

Глаза

Medium-sized, the brow ridges are well-developed. The lower part of the eye socket is closer to an almond shape. The upper part of the eye, on the other hand, is compared to a boomerang in the standard. They are set slightly angled toward the nose, but not slanted. Any color of the eye's cornea is acceptable, regardless of the coat color.

Зубы

On frontal examination, the chin is narrow. In profile, the tip of the nose protrudes slightly forward. Because of this, there is a slight backward deviation between the nose and chin, giving the impression of a bite. The teeth and jaws are strong. Grounds for disqualification include when the cat bites.

Корпус

Long, with well-developed muscles, yet elegant and slender. The chest is deep and full, with clearly defined shoulder blades. The rear part of the body (hips) is rounded and somewhat toned. Meanwhile, the thighs appear noticeably heavier and more massive compared to the overall look.

Конечности

Long, with decent musculature, of medium-boned density (meaning they don't appear too dense and heavy, but neither are they thin). The front limbs are straight, with five toes on each. The hind limbs are slightly longer and have four toes each. The thighs are powerful and look much heavier than they actually are. Having extra toes on the legs or discrepancies in their number is grounds for disqualification.

Хвост

Definitely not thin. Rather medium thickness or even thick. Its length is average, according to the standard, it should end just slightly above ground level (between the hock joints of the hind legs). Tails that are too long are highly undesirable, but docking is strictly prohibited.

Шерсть

Not very thick, but evenly adheres to the body. A bit stiff to the touch, fairly dense, short or slightly closer to medium. The undercoat is soft, covered with guard hairs. Moreover, in the spots, it is noticeably softer than in other areas of the body.

Окрас

Golden and silver with bright black distinct spots covering the entire body. There is also a smoky variant, with spots that glimmer beneath the fur. The most uncommon is the completely black one with black spots. Yes, this is not a typo. In this variety, the spots show through the black coat to varying degrees.

Character

Combining the temperament of a wild predator with that of a domestic cat, these rare and very beautiful animals have striking individual traits. There is no universal description of their temperament, but a certain common thread can be observed among all savannahs.

The most obvious trait is their inexhaustible energy. They love to engage in active games that involve jumping and chasing, both with toys and without. Being excellent hunters, they tend to set ambushes or chase their favorite toy or a family member participating in the game.

Curiosity is another prominent feature of such cats. It is important to note their strong desire to interact with people and socialize in general; their ability to get along with dogs is particularly impressive.

Most of the most expensive domestic cats are very independent. Their love for their owners and loyalty to household routines do not strip them of their own identity. Some wild instincts in their behavior can sometimes surface, especially when males are seeking a mate.

Interestingly, owners note their ability to follow many dog commands. This can be found in the section on “Training and Learning.”

Unfortunately, it cannot be said that these cats are suited for any owner. The activity they require necessitates constant attention and intellectual engagement from their owners, not to mention playtime. Busy individuals are unlikely to be able to provide the necessary level of attention for these domestic predators.Certainly, all of the above is general in nature and cannot apply to every savannah.Be sure to consult experienced breeders for all the necessary information about the traits of specific individuals before deciding to purchase a kitten from a cattery.Despite primarily having many appealing traits, their temperament also includes some negative aspects that are better to understand in advance. Savannahs have inherited certain wild instincts from servals, which can be more pronounced in some individuals. This can sometimes result in increased difficulty in training and socialization. This is especially noticeable in their interactions with unfamiliar people or strange animals during walks. That is why it is crucial to socialize them carefully from the first months of life and not to let them roam freely during maturity.

Питомники

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Savannah (Ashera): питомники

Выбор питомника по городу, породе и отзывам

Списком На карте

На сайте с: 16.03.2026

Benaby

Породы: Bengal cat, Savannah (Ashera), Abyssinian cat, Chausie

Город: Саратовская область

На сайте с: 15.03.2026

Akilachcat

Породы: Savannah (Ashera)

Город: Москва

Care and Maintenance

Comfortable living conditions and proper care for a Savannah cat must be provided throughout its life. When the decision is made to choose a kitten from a breeder, the new home for the pet should be prepared in advance. Breeders usually give comprehensive recommendations upon purchase, but it is also beneficial to familiarize yourself with additional advice.

In cases where there are other pets in the house, the newcomer should be kept in quarantine. The minimum duration is 2 weeks, even though Savannah kittens are sold completely healthy. Even if you don’t have other pets, it’s better to keep the kitten in a small room without supervision until it adjusts to the new environment. During this time, it will learn independence and find its food and water bowls, and litter box, while also becoming more familiar with the home.

What should you feed a Savannah cat?

Usually, at the time of purchase, the breeder informs the buyer about the diet the animal is used to. However, in some cases, new owners may choose not to follow these recommendations and try to select the right food for their kitten themselves. In such situations, a high-quality super-premium or holistic dry food is an excellent choice. When selecting food, pay attention to the absence of gluten in its composition, as carnivorous Savannahs cannot digest such products. High protein content is considered one of the main advantages, along with all the necessary vitamins and minerals included in dry food. Wet (canned) food is not necessary but can be used as a treat, especially for younger kittens. Among cat owners, there is a category of people who prefer natural food in raw form. However, such a diet puts additional strain on the owners, and even a minor miscalculation in its composition can lead to health problems for the Savannah.

Physical activity greatly positively affects their health. They are intelligent creatures capable of quickly understanding all the rules of behavior in a new home. However, in a small city apartment, they may still feel cramped. Large and active cats require space and a lot of toys. When choosing toys, consider the size of a Savannah’s mouth-if the toy is too small, the cat might accidentally swallow it during play. It’s essential to buy a scratching post and train them to sharpen their claws only on this device; otherwise, the furniture will be destroyed.

Cat litter needs to be changed frequently. Like all kittens, a Savannah may swallow small clumps of clumping litter, which can lead to fatal outcomes. Pine pellets are well received by most owners and the animals themselves, and they do not harm health. Occasionally, clay litters are used-this is a personal choice for the owner. It’s better to get a larger litter box. Prefer a big box with a removable rim; this will make cleaning and changing the litter easier.Always ensure that windows are closed, and keeping kittens and cats safe is a must. Savannah cats and kittens are intelligent and curious. Seeing you enter a room and open a door, they often attempt to press the door handle with their paws for the same purpose. If the front door is left open and a cat runs outside, it could lead to trouble.How do Savannahs relate to small children? This is actually a complex question. The first generations of spotted cats were not allowed in homes with small children. There was even guidance from one of the cat associations on this matter. However, these concerns are related not to the animal’s aggression but to worries about the child’s safety if the cat accidentally

Training and Education

The Savannah is an exotic cat with a high level of energy and intelligence. Proper upbringing and training require the owner to understand and meet their unique needs and to take a specific approach to the process.

First and foremost, socializing the kitten is essential. It is crucial to provide ample opportunities for interaction with other animals, people, and various situations from an early age. Incorporate gentle communication and playtime into your daily routine, giving them enough positive experiences to reduce the likelihood of developing deviant behavior.

Ensure that the established house rules are followed and that their boundaries are not crossed. They are very smart and can be impatient, so clear rules and limits must always be maintained in your home. Training them with basic commands like “No!” or “Sit!” will help them understand that certain actions are unacceptable. It is very important to remember that training should be based on a positive approach and reinforcement, not on punishment or fear.

During training, their intellectual stimulation should include various games, including toy puzzles. This will help them expend their energy and develop mentally. Exercises like getting them accustomed to a scratching post or using a clicker can improve their focus and learning ability.

As is known, all Savannahs require considerable physical activity. The owner’s role is to provide enough space for play, as well as a variety of toys that allow them to feel in their element and act like hunters. After such play, it is best to reward them for their active behavior.

It is highly advisable to gradually train them to walk on a leash. Even if you do not plan to take your Savannah on walks, start with the gradual introduction to the collar and leash. This skill may be useful later, as these pets tend to be long-lived. Train them gradually, beginning after their quarantine, and slowly increase walk time. If you have made a firm decision to buy a kitten from a breeder, always remember that Savannahs are wild cats, so caution is needed to prevent them from slipping their leash during walks or coming into contact with wildlife.Positive reinforcement will greatly benefit successful Savannah training. Use treats, praise, and play. Be patient and kind to your cat, and they will be motivated to repeat the desired behavior.

How to Choose a Kitten

First, familiarize yourself with the characteristics of these exotic cats, their care requirements, and assess your financial capabilities. Keeping the most expensive cat in the world requires significant financial investment, even if you do not plan to engage in breeding the breed.

Next, start looking for a cattery, as you are unlikely to find advertisements for kitten sales. It’s worth noting that Zoonika has the best selection of catteries in Russia, where officially registered breeders can assist you with the purchase and provide advice on all the mentioned aspects.

When directly choosing a kitten, carefully assess its health. If possible, bring a feline specialist with you. Be sure to check the health of the kittens’ parents. Review their veterinary passports, pedigree, and request screenings for genetic issues. Examine the kittens’ fur closely and evaluate the living conditions of the animals, as well as the behavior of your savannah kitten and its parents.

Decide on the characteristics and appearance you prefer most. Only choose the one that meets your expectations in terms of size, color, and temperament. Discuss your preferences with the cattery owner and keep them in mind when selecting your new pet.

If an in-person meeting is not possible, communicate via video call with the cattery owners and request as many photos as possible, taken at different times of the day and on various days of the week.

Ask the breeder as many questions as possible about the kitten, including a description of its main character traits, activity level, and habits. Inquire about the services and support offered after the purchase. Create a sales contract that clearly outlines the responsibilities of both parties.

Health and Diseases

A strong immune system is an undeniable advantage of the breed. It has been noted that savannahs are not prone to hereditary diseases. However, stress, poor ecology, and an improperly selected diet can have a detrimental effect on their health.

Among the most likely ailments that a cat may experience throughout its life, one can mention helminth infections, fleas, ear mites, and a range of other common health problems plaguing nearly every breed.

These include progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to almost complete blindness. Then there’s allergies, which can be triggered by cigarette smoke and perfumes, as well as by an inappropriate diet.

Among the most concerning health issues is feline leukemia virus, a retrovirus that can lead to cancer if the outcome is unfavorable. It is most often transmitted through the use of a shared litter box, a common food bowl with an infected individual, saliva transfer during sneezing or mating behaviors, as well as bites and scratches.

Future owners shouldn’t be overly worried, as the presence of these diseases does not mean that every animal will be affected.