The Savannah is one of the largest domestic cat breeds. It resembles a small leopard and behaves like a dog. They can weigh up to 25 lbs, leap nearly 8 feet horizontally, and can be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch.
Savannah Cats: The Dog-Like Felines That Jump 8 Feet
Imagine a cat that greets you at the door, plays fetch, and walks beside you on a leash like a loyal dog. Now imagine that cat looks like a miniature leopard and can launch itself nearly eight feet through the air. That's the Savannah cat—a breed that seems to have cherry-picked the best traits from the entire animal kingdom.
Born from the Wild
The Savannah cat emerged in 1986 when breeder Judee Frank crossed a domestic cat with an African serval—a wild cat native to the African savanna known for its striking spotted coat and impossibly long legs. The result was a kitten named "Savannah," and a new breed was born.
These cats inherit their wild ancestor's exotic appearance: tall, lean bodies covered in bold spots, oversized ears that seem to catch every sound, and eyes that hold a hint of the untamed.
Size Matters
Savannahs are classified by generations, with F1s (first generation, one serval parent) being the largest and most wild. These early-generation cats can weigh up to 25 pounds and stand over a foot tall at the shoulder—roughly the size of a medium dog.
- F1 Savannahs: 50% serval, largest size, most wild temperament
- F2 Savannahs: 25% serval, still impressively large
- F3-F5 Savannahs: Progressively more domestic, but still bigger than typical house cats
Later generations (F5 and beyond) are smaller and more predictably domestic in behavior, making them legal in more places and easier for first-time exotic cat owners.
The Eight-Foot Leap
Perhaps nothing demonstrates the Savannah's wild heritage quite like watching one jump. These cats can leap horizontally nearly eight feet from a standing position, easily clearing kitchen counters, refrigerators, and the tops of bookcases in a single bound.
Their vertical leap is equally impressive—around six feet straight up. Many Savannah owners discover this the hard way when their cat suddenly appears on top of door frames or high shelves they assumed were unreachable.
Dogs in Cat Clothing
What truly sets Savannahs apart from other cats is their personality. They're often described as "dog-like," and the comparison is apt:
- They follow their owners from room to room
- Many learn to play fetch and actually bring the toy back
- They can be trained to walk on a leash
- Some even enjoy water and will join their owners in the shower
Unlike most cats, Savannahs actively seek out human interaction. They're social, curious, and sometimes mischievous—known for figuring out how to open doors, turn on faucets, and get into cabinets.
Not Your Average House Cat
Owning a Savannah isn't for everyone. They need significant space, mental stimulation, and an owner who understands their high-energy personality. Early generations are restricted or banned in some states and countries due to their wild heritage.
But for those ready for the commitment, a Savannah offers something no ordinary pet can: a living piece of the African savanna that plays fetch, walks on a leash, and still carries the grace of a wild hunter in every eight-foot leap.