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Differences in Savannah Cat Types with Images

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In 1986, a house cat gave birth to a kitten born to an African servant. The kitten, which has characteristics of both species, was named "Savannah." Thus, this strange-looking, strange-behavior animal came into being. These hybrid cats are large and lean, with the servants' characteristic large, erect ears and brown spotted coat. There are five generations of Savannah cats, from F1 to F5. Discover the differences in Savannah cat types, including their appearance, size and personality. Plus, learn which is the best Savannah cat.

F1 Savannah Cat

f1 - savannah cat
F1 Savannah cats are the rarest and most expensive. This first-generation hybrid cat is the tallest domestic cat in the world.

© Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com

The F1 Savannah cat is the largest, most expensive and rarest generation of the breed. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, F1 is the tallest domestic cat in the world, reaching a height of 19 inches. However, their sizes may vary. Females weigh between 12 and 19 pounds and males can weigh up to 25 pounds.

Despite its bulk, the F1 won't wreck your house. They are manageable cats who easily bond with their owners. But they're too lazy to interact with children (unless they're related from birth) or people they don't know, often withdrawing or watching from a distance. They're not known for being aggressive, but they generally don't get along well with other small pets such as fish, birds, and rodents. These cats have a lot of energy and want to play non-stop. They love water too!

Average Weight: 13 to 25 pounds

Price: $12,000 to $20,000

F2 Savannah Cat

F2 Savannah Cat
The F2 Savannah is slightly smaller than the F1, but still has many of the same exotic characteristics.

© https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Savannah.jpg

F2 Savannah cats are one size down. Lengthwise, they're an inch or so shorter than the F1. Males range in weight from 15 to 24 pounds, occasionally reaching 30 pounds. Females are smaller, averaging 12 to 16 pounds. They look similar to the F1, but with a more domestic look.

This generation tends to be more social, especially with immediate family. They're still not considered lap cats, but they love to be petted and played with constantly, even with children. They can get tired of strangers, like F1. However, they spend less time getting acquainted with new people. If you want a Savannah that looks similar to the F1 but with a more social personality, the F2 is a good choice.

Average Weight: 12 to 24 pounds

Price: $4,000 to $11,000

F3 Savannah Cat

F3 Savannah Cat
The F3 Savannah cat is the perfect mix of exotic and domestic pets. They have excellent personalities and get along well with all members of the family.

©Patrick Hatt/Shutterstock.com

The further Savannah cats move away from their African servant lineage, the smaller and more domestic cat-like they become. F3 Savannah cats are the next generation and are usually about 17 inches long. Males weigh between 13 and 19 pounds. Females are much smaller, only 10 to 13 pounds. The breed still has its wild markings, but begins to look more like a domestic cat.

F3s are very social and bond closely with their families. It also welcomes strangers easily and is very fond of playing with children. In this generation, they're more likely to sit on your lap and want to be held. They have great personalities and are positive and intelligent at the same time. Unlike most house cats, the F3 can be trained to walk on a leash and loves to play in the water!

Average Weight: 10 to 19 pounds

Price: $1,500 to $4,000

F4 & F5 Savannah Cat

f5 savannah cat
F4 and F5 Savannahs are similar in size and appearance to the F3, but are more social and playful.

© Kolomenskaya Kseniya/Shutterstock.com

The F4s and F5s are very similar in size, appearance and price. Therefore, they are grouped into the same category. These generations look like tall, lanky house cats with exotic markings. They average 16 inches long and weigh about the same as the F3. Males weigh an average of 13 to 20 pounds, while females weigh 10 to 13 pounds.

The temperament and character of the F4 and F5 Savannah cats are also similar to the F3. But they are more social and hands-on. They are very energetic and intelligent and love to play and be stroked all day long. Although they are more like normal house cats, they are smarter and more playful.

Average Weight: 10 to 20 pounds

Price: $1,000 to $4,000

What Are the Best Savannah Cats?

Every Savannah cat has a unique appearance and personality. Which one you choose will depend entirely on your family's needs and wishes. However, if you're looking for suggestions, use F3. They are the perfect combination of exotic looks and fun personalities. They are slightly smaller than the F1 and F2, but more sociable and approachable, easy to get along with all family members and guests.

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featured image

f1 savannah cat
Side view of a Savannah F1 cat, a mixed breed between a servant and a house cat, isolated on white

© Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com


about the author


Niccoy is a professional writer and content creator focusing on nature, wildlife, food and travel. She graduated from Florida State University with a business degree before realizing that writing was her true passion. She lives in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and loves hiking, reading and cooking!

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