DebraRoberts
My name is Debra Roberts, and five Savannahs own my husband Jamison and me I launched this magazine out of my deep love for Savannah cats and experiences that led me to want to do more There’s much to learn when choosing the right kitten from a reputable breeder My journey began with a leap into the unknown that left us without a kitten Then came Luna, our kitten, who was diagnosed with fatal Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in 2017 Thanks to an experimental antiviral drug trial that same year, Luna became the world’s first FIP survivor with GS-441524. What started as a simple blog about FIP has since evolved into this magazine and website dedicated to Savannah Cats. We expanded further with a Facebook group and an interactive Breeder Directory. After almost five years of publishing, I completely redesigned the magazine in January 2024, and I hope you enjoy the new look!
SAVANNAHGANS® is a FREE electronic and now printed publication that delivers informative and entertaining content from Savannah enthusiasts and experts Our publication blends factual insights with heartwarming stories and essential health and safety education With a growing list of knowledgeable contributors, there’s always engaging content to share! Current and future owners can also explore our website for valuable information about this amazing breed.
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SAVANNAHGANS® invites ALL cat lovers to explore our content Whether looking for products, health advice, feeding tips, or DIY projects, you’ll find it all in each quarterly issue and at www.savannahgans.com. Be sure to follow us on social media and leave us reviews on Google and Facebook.
Savannah Breed Standard: The Savannah Cat’s Eyes
By: Heather Jackson, Savannah Breeder NitroKatz
n any other domestic breed The hooding, unique to Servals, and this look should be but they do not always appear this way in
d at least one eye width apart. Dark tear a gs a e des ab e a d ay be p ese a o g a d be ee e eyes and the nose. All eye colors are allowed and are independent of coat color.
To read about the Savannah’s ears, check out the Summer 2024 issue and watch the Winter 2025 issue for the next Breed Standard feature
Protecting Your Cats During the Holidays
By: Debra Roberts
The countdown to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year brings excitement, magic, and festive joy into our homes. Decorations go up, lights glow, and the holiday spirit is in the air. However, amidst all the merriment, it’s important to be mindful of hidden dangers that pose risks to your beloved pets
Here’s a guide to keeping your pets safe and ensuring a stress-free holiday season for everyone
Holiday Decorations: A Hidden Hazard
While essential to the festive ambiance, holiday decorations can be hazardous to pets Here’s how to mitigate the risks:
The Christmas Tree
Pets, especially cats, are notorious for climbing trees, and an overly enthusiastic dog might accidentally topple one over. A falling tree can damage furniture and pose a serious injury risk to your pet
Tips for a Safe Tree Setup:
Secure the tree to the ceiling with discreet hooks to prevent tipping
Use repellents, such as motion detectors that emit sound, to deter curious pets from getting too close
Avoid placing the tree near furniture that pets might use as a launchpad.
Fragile Ornaments
Delicate decorations, like glass balls, can break and cause injuries. Pets might cut their paws or ingest shards, leading to internal injuries.
Safer Alternatives:
Opt for ornaments made of durable materials like plastic or wood to minimize risk
Small and Linear Decorations
Tinsel, garlands, and small figurines can be choking hazards or cause digestive blockages if swallowed
Electrical Decorations
Electrical cords, such as lights and powered ornaments, can be hazardous for curious cats. Cats are drawn to the dangling movements or the warmth they emit, making them tempting chew toys Chewing on electrical cords can lead to electrocution, burns, or even fires A playful cat might get tangled in the cords, risking injury or strangulation To keep your cat safe, secure cords by tying up excess lengths and keeping them off the floor Use cord protectors or covers and or spray them with pet-safe deterrents Always unplug decorations when not in use or when your cat isn’t supervised
Safety Measures:
Keep cords off the floor and use ties to manage excess lengths
Turn off electrical decorations when unsupervised
Wrap cords in electrical tape for extra protection
Candles
Open flames are risky for curious pets and wagging tails
Safety Tips:
Place candles in high, inaccessible areas. Light candles only when you can supervise your pet.
Toxic Decorations
Fake snow and certain festive plants, like poinsettia, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to pets
Recommendations:
Avoid these entirely
Use artificial plants as safer, maintenance-free alternatives
Mind the Gifts
Wrapped gifts and gift bags can be hazardous for cats. The crinkling paper, dangling ribbons, and shiny bows are irresistible to their playful instincts but come with risks. Cats may chew or swallow ribbons, bows, or string, leading to choking or dangerous intestinal blockages Gift bags with handles can also pose a risk, as a curious cat might get its head stuck, leading to injury or panic Please don't leave wrapped gifts or bags unattended where cats can access them
Store presents in a secure area until it’s time to open them, and immediately discard all packaging and ribbons after unwrapping to prevent accidents
Holiday Food: Keep It Pet-Friendly
Sharing holiday treats with pets might seem kind, but many festive foods can be harmful to cats:
1
Onions and Garlic - Can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia
2
3
4
Grapes and Raisins - Can lead to kidney failure
Alcohol - Even small quantities can cause severe intoxication and liver damage
Caffeine - Found in coffee, tea, and chocolate desserts, caffeine can cause hyperactivity, tremors, or seizures.
5.
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) - In sugar-free candies, gums, or baked goods, it can cause severe hypoglycemia and liver failure.
6.
Cooked Bones - Small, brittle bones in turkeys or chickens can splinter and cause choking or intestinal perforations
7
8
9
10
Dairy Products - Can lead to digestive upset
Raw Dough - Yeast in dough can expand in the stomach, causing bloating or alcohol poisoning
Fatty Foods - High-fat foods like gravy, fatty meats, or butter can cause pancreatitis
Nutmeg - contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and seizures
Macadamia Nuts - Can cause vomiting and lethargy 11
12.
Salty Snacks - Salt can lead to sodium poisoning, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures.
Reserve a portion of your pet’s regular food or kibble to share as a treat during meals. This keeps them feeling included without risking their health.
Conclusion
These precautions allow you to enjoy a magical holiday season while keeping your pets safe, happy, and healthy
Savannah Cat Breeder
Devan Clawson of Clawson Savannahs
Washington
Please tell us about your background, family, past or current occupation(s), and hobbies.
As a child, I was fascinated by animals and we always had dogs When I was 11, I wrote an article for my parent's newspaper, which started it all It was titled “The Care and Understanding of Sugar Gliders ” Naturally, we had to get one and two; before long, we had six Gliders We purchased two from a breeder and four more who needed to be rehomed We also raised and showed AKC Saint Bernards, which I loved dearly
I am married to Ryan and have three children: Abigail, 9; Markus, 13; and Vadania, 16. I am a customer service rep for an Environmental Services company. I also started my own business as a divorce coach (Eye to Eye Divorce Services), and in 2025, we will add mediation services. Ryan and I co-own the cattery together.
For 26 years, I worked with various animals, from cats and dogs to farm and exotic animals, including North American Wildlife Rescue and Rehab and Exotic Animal Rescue I took three years of pre-vet classes and studied under a veterinarian for many years I changed my mind about being a vet when I saw the toughness of dealing with animal owners I could go on and on about my life and adventures, but that would be a novel Fast forward to today I have an amazing family that is all part of raising the cats and sharing the responsibility The kids have the best part as they handle the socialization program for my Savannahs.
What inspired you to become a breeder, and how did your cattery start?
My mom bred Jungle Curl, Chaussie, Highland Lynx, and Desert Lynx cats I liked the Chaussies, but what stole my heart 11 years ago was a beautiful male Savannah from a friend who couldn’t keep his cattery and a few Bengals Zack, the male Savannah, was my favorite He had such an amazing personality, but it took a few months for him to adjust to me But when he did, he became my sidekick- my best friend who got up into everything--so sneaky to avoid getting into trouble I’m sure we all know the story from there After having one, I decided to get another I struggled to find a breeder near me that wasn’t a scam, and the breeder I used was a roller coaster nightmare Through my experience, I wanted to be a breeder who produced nice quality cats with amazing personalities and proved they can be amazing family pets, even with young children Like any breeder, I’ve learned a lot over the eight years I have been breeding Savannahs, and even to this day, I can say I’ll always learn more, but my next adventure is to show my Savannahs in 2025
What’s your typical morning-to-evening routine at your cattery?
Weekends and evenings are for playtime with the adults, and all day, every day is for playtime for kittens.
What’s your favorite experience as a breeder?
My favorite experience is watching the amazing personalities that develop with the kittens over time What warms my heart the most are the smiles from the happy families and kids telling me how great their kittens are and that they’re “the best in the world ”
What's the worst/hardest part about breeding?
The hardest part for me is not knowing certain things or losing a kitten after trying everything to save it When you aim to raise happy, healthy cats and make sure everyone is happy with their kittens, there are always downfalls, but I’ll always try my hardest to learn and adjust to do better for my cats
Do you or do you have a breeder mentor(s) you wish to acknowledge, and how did he/she help you with your successes and failures with breeding and business operations?
This is hard, but yes, I had mentors. Honestly, some amazing breeders deserve a shout-out. I’ve met eight outstanding breeders. But one I want to thank with all my heart, who’s been a rock when I needed her, is Cynthia Baird from Exotic Hybrids She’s an amazing woman, and I admire her wholeheartedly
Some other amazing ladies I’ve met include Nicole Tellier of Surreal Savannahs, Cindy del Rosario of Bay Area Savannahs, Heather Tartacchio of St Louis Savannahs, and Jessica Hurst of Rocky Mountain Exotics
What are the best breeding tips or advice you've received from another breeder?
Always focus on your goals and what you're striving for with your cats Ask yourself, “Why are you breeding? Understand there’s little to no profit when breeding lower-generation Savannahs It's a very expensive hobby
What are the biggest strengths AND weaknesses of the Savannah breed?
Savannahs seem to have fewer health problems than several other breeds of cats not to say they’re not prone to any issues Savannahs seem to have fewer risks in their lineage than other breeds
One thing that would be great for Savannahs is for breeders to be more united and work together rather than separately to better the breed and provide more education and understanding of the breed, especially with higher-generation Savannahs
What should new breeders know they may not have considered that you’ve learned from breeding?
Learn about diseases, parasites, sicknesses, and FIP. It’s essential to understand and keep up with new information. Don’t be afraid to reach out and learn from others. Sometimes, talking with others helps so much with “what ifs and what nots” with breeding.
Do you feed your Savannahs and kittens a raw diet and recommend raw feeding to your families? Why/Why not?
We feed raw to adults and, nowadays, cooked meat to kittens; as they age, they adjust to raw However, we keep dry food on hand, and yes, we even feed some wet food There are so many options, so finding a high-protein diet is easy We also recommend Raw to new owners
If not raw feeding or supplementing, what food brands/types do you recommend and why?
I use Purina food and Wild Feline or Kitty Bloom supplements
Have you bred any other type of cat or animal besides Savannahs?
In my years, I have raised Saint Bernards, horses, wolves, and several types of exotic cats, including bobcats, jungle cats, lynxes, foxes, and reptiles.
What concerns do you have regarding the future of the Savannah breed?
I am concerned that newer breeders are losing focus on structure, and I think it’s important to study the breed and its standards I am also concerned about the future of the Savannah gene pool, as it seems to be getting smaller
What is your favorite(s) generation to breed and why?
I love all generations!
Do you attend cat shows, and if yes, what's your highest achievement?
No shows to date, but plan to start in 2025
What requirements do you look for from your potential buyers?
I ensure they have a safe, secure home, and if they rent, I have verified they can have Savannahs They must understand the breed's needs and have experience and knowledge about owning and raising cats They don't have to have experience with Savannahs but must be aware of the true meaning of "Savandalism."
How do you ensure the health of the kittens in your breeding program?
We check the health of our kittens before they leave, and our adults get an annual health check and are health tested before being used in our program.
What else would you like the Savannah world to know about you and your cattery?
I've learned a lot from raising Savannahs for eight years and enjoy them immensely Raising them with my family has been so rewarding, and I've met some incredible people fellow breeders and new owners
Like everything, it can have its stresses, and when you have trials, you ask yourself, "Why do I do this to myself"? But when you meet a little child that has such a huge smile because they're taking their own kitty home or the new kitten is in their home, it makes you smile, and also, when your families share with you all the happiness and love your Savannah brings, it does bring a smile. I'm planning to focus more and more on standards for my Savannahs.
I look forward to the future and meeting many more new people!
Instagram: Clawson hybrids
Facebook: Clawson Hybrids
Website: www.clawsonsranch.com
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Avian H5N1 in Felines: Understanding the Risks and Implications
By: Debra Roberts
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has long been recognized as a threat to a occasionally, humans However, recent cases have highlighted another susceptible group: domestic and wild felines. The H5N1 strain, in particular, has shown the ability to infect cats, raising concerns about cross-species transmission, public health implications, and animal welfare.
What is Avian H5N1?
H5N1 is a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus that primarily affects birds. First detected in the late 1990s, it has caused significant outbreaks in poultry worldwide. While primarily avian-focused, the virus has demonstrated zoonotic potential, meaning it can spread to other species, including humans, felines, and other mammals The biggest carriers are migratory waterfowl (89 avian species) and 45 mammalian species
How Do Cats Get Infected?
Cats primarily become infected with H5N1 through:
Ingesting infected birds: Outdoor cats that hunt and consume infected wild birds are at significant risk 1
Direct contact: Cats near infected birds or poultry farms may contract the virus through droppings, saliva, or contaminated surfaces 2
Inhalation of aerosolized particles: In rare cases, the virus can spread through airborne particles. 3. The sources of the most recent infections in cats have been traced to ingesting raw dairy products (milk and cream) and raw meat. 4.
Clinical Signs in Felines Cats infected with H5N1 may exhibit various symptoms. Consider testing for avian influenza type A (H5N1) in cats if ANY of the following are noted in a cat or a group of cats:
High fever
Respiratory distress (e g , coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing)
Lethargy and weakness
Neurological signs such as seizures, tremors, uncoordinated movement, circling, confusion
Sudden death in severe cases
Signs that look like rabies infection
It’s important to note that not all infected cats will display symptoms immediately, which complicates detection and containment. To date, there have been about 54 reported cases in cats and the mortality rate is >67%.
Risk to Humans
While there is no evidence of feline-to-human transmission of H5N1, the virus's mutability poses a theoretical risk Humans in close contact with infected cats, such as pet owners, veterinarians, or animal shelter workers, should practice strict hygiene measures to minimize exposure
Preventive Measures
Keep cats indoors to reduce exposure to infected birds
Avoid feeding cats raw meat from any source (per the USDA)
Monitor any unusual symptoms and consult a veterinarian if illness is suspected
Follow biosecurity protocols if working with birds or poultry
Isolate cats who exhibit newly developed neurologic signs with an unknown history.
Research and Surveillance
Research on H5N1 in felines is ongoing, with scientists focusing on understanding the virus's behavior in mammalian hosts. Enhanced surveillance and reporting mechanisms are critical to detecting outbreaks early and preventing potential cross-species transmission
Conclusion
Pet owners, veterinarians, and public health officials must remain vigilant, prioritize preventive measures, and contribute to research efforts to mitigate the risks associated with this virus Any cat showing the abovementioned symptoms should see a vet immediately
Resources:
Refer to this site to see the species affected: https://www fao org/animal health/situation updates/global aiv
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In Memoriam: Betty Hagebeek, Breeder, Netherlands
Original Article Courtesy of the Dutch Savannahcat Association
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved friend Betty Hagebeek, dedicated chairman and board member of the Savannah Cat Association Netherlands. Betty was a pioneer in the Netherlands and dedicated herself to the care and protection of Servals and Savannah cats for years.
With her passion and love for these special animals, she was an inexhaustible source of inspiration to many and her knowledge and commitment have left a lasting impact We could always count on her for advice and support, and over the years she was tirelessly there for anyone who asked her for help
Although she has been ill for a long time, she has fought with incredible strength and perseverance An important driver in her fight was her great love for cats and her dedication to their well-being
We will miss her, not only for her contributions as a board member but especially for the warm and caring person she was. Her legacy will continue to live on in our work and in the hearts of all who knew her.
Visit Betty’s Facebook page: https://www facebook com/betty hagebeek/
Visit Betty’s Website: https://catteryspotlight nl/
The wrongful seizure of Serval Pablo
Original ArticleCourtesy of the Dutch Savannah Cat Association
In a recent ruling, the District Court of The Hague ruled that the seizure of a young Serval named Pablo was unjustified What was initially presented as an action to protect the Serval turned out to be based on advice and assumptions that went beyond what the law prescribes This case shows that the lack of clear guidelines leaves room for both subjective interpretations and unnecessary and even unlawful enforcement
This issue once again criticizes the way in which animal legislation is interpreted and implemented in the Netherlands It also underlines the need to critically examine the creation of these rules In addition, it emphasizes the urgent need for clear and objective guidelines for keeping (exotic) animals, so that both owners and enforcers can rely on fair and well-founded guidelines and arbitrary or subjective enforcement is prevented.
Confiscation
The seizure came after Pablo’s owner proactively reported to the authorities to prevent any problems. He reported that he had a Serval, a 20-week-old kitten, that he had adopted from previous owners who had kept it on the sixteenth floor of an apartment
Pablo was able to roam freely throughout the home and had access to various enrichment elements An outdoor enclosure was planned to be built after the winter, once the Serval was older The animal showed no signs of stress, was in good health* and was completely house-trained Despite this proactive and transparent approach and the fact that Pablo was still a kitten, without the specific needs of an adult Serval, Pablo was confiscated after an unexpected inspection
The owner, who had to defend himself against a closed front of police, justice, and AAP foundation, sought support from the Savannah and Serval Cat Association Netherlands (SKVN) to defend against this drastic decision SKVN supported him and his lawyer in drawing up the defense and thus offered a counterbalance to the advice and interpretations of Stichting AAP, which had been adopted by the authorities without further review
*Later also confirmed by a veterinarian from RVO.
Misleading Advice
The decision to confiscate relied heavily on advice from a behavioral biologist of the AAP Foundation, who, however, never personally assessed the situation at the owner's home The officer who carried out the inspection had no specific knowledge of Servals's care and relied entirely on AAP's advice without being qualified to do so himself As a result, important details were overlooked, such as the presence of the drinking fountain Unfortunately, the advice of the AAP Foundation was largely based on their own vision of keeping exotic animals Their subjective interpretations and requirements do not always correspond to scientific consensus and also go beyond what the law requires
The owner was also charged with the lack of a separate cage and climbing facilities, although there is no scientific basis for these requirements, and they are not legally required The law only states that the basic needs of the animal must be met, such as access to water and space for natural behaviour. The alleged lack of sufficient water facilities and these additional, non-legal requirements together formed the basis for the seizure of Pablo.
It is noteworthy that no staff from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) or the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) were present in an official capacity during the inspection, which calls into question the objectivity and thoroughness of the procedure
The Role of the AAP Foundation
The AAP Foundation has campaigned for stricter legislation regarding the keeping of exotic animals for many years and played a significant role in creating the current ban on private ownership of exotic pets, including Servals
Although the law allows Servals to be kept provided the correct documentation is in order, and the animal was born before 1 July 2024 * , there are no specific legal requirements for responsible ownership of these animals However, the AAP Foundation is attempting to pass off self-defined requirements as de facto obligations and thereby influence not only the legislation but also its implementation. AAP is also actively committed to making its standards part of policy advice to government institutions, where this advice is apparently adopted without opposition. As a result, private owners of exotic animals risk being confronted with extra-legal requirements.
Another worrying development in this case is a possible conflict of interest, as the expert from Stichting AAP has also been working for NVWA since April 2024. This dual role raises questions about the independence of the assessment and suggests that the advice from Stichting AAP may be adopted in official decision-making without critical review This increases the chance of a one-sided assessment of the keeping of exotic animals, in which other expert parties, such as SKVN, Platform Verantwoord Huisdierbezit (PVH) and other stakeholders, may be disregarded
*Animals whose mothers were demonstrably pregnant on July 1, 2024, may also be legally kept In addition, rehoming these animals is also permitted under current legislation
Judgment of the Court
The Hague District Court ruled in summary proceedings that the seizure of Pablo was unjustified and that it is unlikely that another judge would decide in a substantive procedure that Pablo should not be allowed to remain with its owner The court found that there was insufficient reason to keep the Serval seized any longer and that Pablo had to be returned to its owner
The court based its decision on the animal's actual situation, without addressing the additional requirements proposed by Stichting AAP. In doing so, the court seems to agree with the argument that specific living conditions and the care provided by an owner should be decisive in assessing an animal's welfare and that nonlegal requirements do not provide sufficient grounds for seizure.
This ruling took place in a context where the current regulations on keeping exotic animals in the Netherlands are under legal challenge Organisations such as PVH, Dibevo and Stichting Animalia claim that the law and the underlying criteria are unlawful and insufficiently substantiated
SKVN considers the court's reluctance to apply rules that go beyond legal obligations in this case to be a positive development as it emphasises that the actual circumstances in which an animal lives outweigh subjective, nonlegal requirements indicated by lobby organisations
The need for objective guidelines
The Netherlands currently has no clear regulations on what responsible keeping of other exotic animals exactly entails. Current legislation does not provide speciic guidelines on housing, care and handling of these animals. This gap leads to varying interpretations and subjective interpretations of what responsible ownership means. This case shows how the lack of concrete guidelines can lead to a one-sided interpretation of advice, which can result in unjustified enforcement actions and even unlawful seizure of legally kept animals. Also read: When ignorance becomes law: The hobby and pet list
The advisory role of Stichting AAP, which influences policy and enforcement with its own standards, raises questions about the objectivity of the decision-making process Their possible dual role within the NVWA, combined with the fact that their advice is adopted by other parties without review, led to a situation in which the rights of the owner were undermined The court eventually had to intervene to rectify this situation, which shows that the current approach does not provide a solid basis for fair and balanced enforcement
SKVN emphasizes that it should be possible for private individuals to keep a Serval, as long as conditions are met to guarantee the welfare of the animal It would therefore be fairer and more effective to legally establish these basic conditions in clear guidelines, instead of the current general ban This provides owners and enforcers with a basis and prevents unnecessary and unilateral enforcement actions that harm both owner and animal
The reunion
Two weeks after the verdict, Pablo was reunited with his owner, but unfortunately this did not go without problems The AAP Foundation stated that the owner had to pick up Pablo himself and did not give him permission to enter the site with animal enclosures This not only complicated the transfer but also led to discussion about recovering essential documents Initially, AAP claimed that these were not in their possession, but after repeated insistence, the documents suddenly surfaced
Pablo's caretakers at AAP indicated that he had shown aggression, behavior that he had never shown to his owner This indicates that the stay at AAP did not do him any good; the young Serval showed clear signs of stress and abnormal eating behavior after reunion These changes are concerning and underscore the negative impact that an abrupt and stressful change of environment can have on an animal This again emphasizes the importance of broader consultation and careful consultation, before taking drastic steps. SKVN regrets that this was not taken into account at any time in the process by both the authorities and the AAP Foundation.
We hear from Pablo's owner that he is doing better every day since his return to his familiar surroundings and routine. His stress behavior is noticeably decreasing and he seems to be slowly calming down.
We wish Pablo and his dedicated owner many more happy years together!
Meet Sheremetieva: A Life Dedicated to Cats
By: Elena Sheremetieva
Hello, everyone! My name is Elena Sheremetieva, and my love for cats has been with me since childhood There’s even a recording of me at the age of seven, wishing my sister lots of cats despite knowing she didn’t like them because I loved them so much
It all began in 2002 when my mother bought me my very first British Shorthair cat. She was a cream color-point a rare and coveted coat color that I had dreamed of owning. Back then, buying a cat was an unusual concept in our country. Most people believed, “Why buy one when there are so many strays running around the streets for free?”
That same year, I officially registered my cattery with the Uktraine-based club “Rolandus Union.” With my British Shorthair, I started attending cat shows, and it quickly became my passion. I even worked as a clerk at these shows, immersing myself completely in the feline world.
My family didn’t fully support my endeavors, except for my mother She was my rock, the one person who encouraged me every step of the way, especially when it came to my love for cats She also helped me purchase my second cat a Scottish Fold
A few years later, while browsing the internet, I stumbled across a video on an American website showcasing Savannah cats It was love at first sight! At that time, Savannahs were completely unheard of in Ukraine; no one had even seen or heard of them. I vividly remember taping a picture of a Savannah and a serval to my mirror as a daily reminder of my dream.
When my mom and I decided to buy a Serval, the journey was anything but easy. There were no breeders in Ukraine or even nearby countries Scammers were everywhere, and the process seemed nearly impossible
Finally, in 2009, we brought our first Serval, Tom, from the Czech Republic That moment marked the beginning of an incredible journey From then on, everything changed, and my life became deeply intertwined with these magnificent cats
Over the years, this passion has grown into a lifelong dedication to breeding and working with exotic cats. What started as a childhood dream has become a fulfilling career and a way of life.
The Challenges and Triumphs of Breeding Savannah Cats
The purchase of our first Serval didn’t bring the miracle we had hoped for. We had no prior experience with hybrids, and no one could guide us. We were true pioneers in this field and, naturally, had to learn from our mistakes
Unfortunately, we didn’t succeed with our first serval, so we decided to find him a mate However, we fell victim to scammers who sold us a 10-year-old Serval instead of a young, breeding-ready female
In 2012, our second Serval, Joy, arrived from Germany, bred by the amazing Roland Alt After careful analysis of our past mistakes, we finally succeeded, and in 2014, we welcomed our first litter of F1 Savannahs These kittens were the very first of their kind not only in Ukraine but also in neighboring countries. They were three adorable bundles of happiness, and this milestone marked the beginning of a new chapter for our cattery.
Through it all, my mother remained by my side, offering her unwavering support Breeding Savannahs, especially earlygeneration ones, is incredibly challenging, and few people truly understand the dedication it requires Over the past decade, I’ve witnessed dozens of people enter this field, thinking it’s a lucrative business They would buy Servals and domestic cats, only to give up soon after when faced with the complexities and hardships
True breeders those who are genuinely passionate work tirelessly for years, driven not by profit but by love for their craft Breeding isn’t a business; it’s a hobby, a self-employment venture, and a monumental labor of love Those who chase quick riches often abandon their efforts when reality sets in
For a breeder, the true reward lies in seeing the results of years of hard work and witnessing the joyful smiles of new owners
For instance, in our cattery, the character and socialization of kittens are our top priorities. We even work with families with children to help raise the most social and affectionate kittens. Often, people adopt a pet expecting companionship, but I’ve seen far too many cats come from “breeders” so poorly socialized that their new owners were afraid of them. This, in turn, perpetuates the myth that F1 or F2 Savannahs are wild and unmanageable animals
That simply isn’t true The problem lies in improper upbringing and lack of effort by the owners or breeders With the right upbringing, early-generation Savannahs can be so affectionate that they won’t let you walk past them without demanding attention and showering you with their love
Breeding Savannahs isn’t just a job it’s a calling, and the bond these cats form with their owners is the ultimate proof of the dedication it takes to raise them right.
Advice for Aspiring Breeders: The Realities Behind the Joy
For aspiring breeders, it’s important to understand that raising kittens isn’t just about spending fun, playful moments with cats, as many imagine Over the years, I’ve had breeders call me in tears after just a couple of years, admitting they had no idea how difficult it would be They thought, “How hard can it be? Just let the kittens be born, and buyers will be lining up ”
The truth is, while breeding has moments of joy especially those precious times with kittens, which are indeed the greatest reward of our work it also comes with many challenges It’s a daily routine of cleaning up endless piles of mess, managing raw meat diets, and enduring sleepless nights
Unfortunately, cats can get sick, and even the most beloved ones in the cattery and kittens can pass away There are also difficult deliveries, premature kittens that must be hand-fed every two hours (even at night), and countless unforeseen situations These are living beings, and anything can happen.
But, as I mentioned earlier, this work has a bright side: happy and grateful clients. It’s a true joy for me to see how our kittens transform the lives of their new owners and reshape their perspectives on animals. A Savannah isn’t just a pet; it’s a true companion, a “catdog” in the feline world
Today, new breeders are fortunate to have access to a wealth of information, support from experienced breeders, and communities that can guide them When I started, there was no one to turn to, and I had to learn everything through trial and error
Character and Health: The Foundations of Responsible Breeding
As I mentioned earlier, the most important factors for us as breeders are the character and health of our kittens. These are the cornerstones of what we do and cannot be compromised.
Unfortunately, I often see mistakes made by breeders, especially newcomers or so-called “backyard breeders ” Many of them believe that early-generation hybrids are just like regular domestic cats They’ll confine a mother cat and her kittens to a bathroom, check in once daily to feed her, and call it a day This is where the myths about aggressive Savannahs come from But let me ask you this: would you raise servals the same way? Would you simply walk into a serval
enclosure once a day to feed the mother? Of course not! That’s how zoos operate, and what kind of Servals do we get from zoos? Exactly wild ones!
Yes, a Savannah isn’t a Serval, but early-generation Savannahs (F1 and F2) still carry 25-50% serval blood You cannot raise them the way you would a typical domestic cat When I hear breeders say things like, “It’s normal for a Savannah to hiss and growl,” I strongly disagree That’s not normal; it’s a sign of negligence The truth is, such breeders are simply lazy and unwilling to put in the effort, yet they’re the ones who perpetuate the stereotype that Savannahs are aggressive
Raising Savannahs, particularly early-generation ones, requires dedication, time, and constant effort You must spend 24/7 with them eating, sleeping, and bonding If you have a “problematic” kitten, you can’t just leave them with their mother They need to be separated early so they can imprint on humans, not their mothers or siblings. This process takes time, patience, and an unwavering commitment to socialization.
Breeding is hard work it’s not as simple as walking into a room once a day to feed the mother cat. Those who believe otherwise aren’t raising Savannahs properly, and the kittens they produce only hurt the reputation of this incredible breed. Proper care, attention, and love are essential to raising well-adjusted, social Savannah kittens.
Raising Kittens as Family and the Unique Approach of Our Cattery
As I mentioned, our kittens are raised as family members, often alongside children, to ensure they grow up to be social and affectionate companions Of course, our adult cats have spacious enclosures designed for their comfort and well-being Currently, our cattery includes over 200 square meters of warm winter enclosures and more than 400 square meters of summer enclosures
Our cattery operates in two cities, as we not only breed Savannahs but also work with wild cats, such as Caracals and Bobcats Each species requires tailored care and attention to thrive
Our Diet Philosophy
We prioritize a meat-based diet for our Savannahs, as we’ve noticed significant benefits compared to commercial cat food. Cats and kittens on kibble often seem perpetually hungry, likely due to the rapid absorption of proteins in processed food. They constantly beg for treats beyond their regular meals.
However, on a raw meat diet, our cats are noticeably more satisfied and calmer, and the kittens grow larger and stronger Another important advantage is the improvement in digestion cats on a meat-based diet produce waste less frequently, and it lacks the strong odor typical of kibble-fed cats, indicating better food absorption
Our main proteins include quail, day-old chicks, chicken, beef, and rabbit These provide a balanced and natural diet that closely mimics what these cats consume in the wild
We occasionally supplement pregnant queens' diets with vitamins specifically formulated for pregnant cats This extra support is especially important for F1 Savannahs, given their unique needs during pregnancy
Chausies: Another Incredible Hybrid We’re Proud to Breed
I also want to share some insights about another hybrid breed we’ve worked with since 2012 the extraordinary Chausie While they aren’t as globally popular as Savannahs, people who buy Chausies often return for a second or even third! And for good reason these cats are absolutely incredible
Chausies are exceptionally intelligent, both their greatest strength and biggest challenge. As I like to say, “Their intelligence can be a double-edged sword.” They are fiercely loyal “velcro cats” that cling to their owners and make excellent companions, ensuring you’ll never feel alone.
However, once again, proper socialization and upbringing are critical Unfortunately, I often receive messages from people who purchased poorly socialized Chausies from other breeders They reach out for help, describing their cats as wild or unmanageable. Sadly, little can be done in these cases because the foundation for socialization must be laid during the earliest weeks of life. When a hybrid kitten reaches 4-6 months of age, it’s often too late to socialize an early-generation hybrid properly.
Chausies, when raised correctly from a young age, are some of the most rewarding companions you can imagine Their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature make them truly unique pets but only if given the right start in life. That’s why we dedicate so much time and effort to ensure that all our kittens, Savannahs and Chausies alike are fully socialized and ready to become loving members of their future families.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Responsible Breeders
As I conclude my article, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the responsible breeders who dedicate their time, effort, and love to bringing affectionate, healthy, and beautiful Savannahs into the world.
A special thank you goes to two incredible Ukrainian breeders, Anna Pavlenko of Royal Pride Cats and Vladyslava Paliazova of VNVcat Despite the unimaginably challenging circumstances of the war in Ukraine, you continue to persevere Your unwavering commitment ensures that hybrid breeding in Ukraine not only survives but thrives
You work tirelessly to keep your cats safe and maintain the highest breeding standards, even in the face of adversity. I am so proud of you both you are true examples of strength and dedication. Thank you for everything you do!
I also want to thank my beloved and most brilliant veterinarians, Kateryna Horbenko and Oleksandr Melnychenko You are my treasure, and I can’t imagine the life of my cattery or my own without you!
Of course, my beloved mom and her husband, Gennadiy. She is still devoted to our breeds and, like me, is passionate about them with all her heart.
Duma HPF1
Lavish Savannahs
Owner: Holly Leahey, PA
Clover F6
Savannah Royale owners: Randy and Stacy Burckhard, NY
Sabal & Coconut
Females F6
Space Coast Savannah Owner: Adrienne Meyer-Arendt, FL
Charlie F6
Savannah Royale owner: Becky Lee, MA
Artemis F2
Gulf Coast Savannahs
Owner: Lori Rogers, FL
Saber F2
Salem’s Pride
Owner: Cathy TennisMuela, MD
Pennywize F4
All Earz Savannahs
Owner: Kelly Ann Bennett, NV
Helene & Milton F2
Gulf Coast Savannahs
Owner: Melissa Petty, FL
Kiyah Lea HPF1
Iwanna Savannah
Owner: Laura Lawson, MO
Goliath F2
Lakeshore Savannahs
Owner: Cathy TennisMuela, MD
Athena Grace F2
Exotico Savannahs
Owner: Suzette Moore-Carter, FL
Suni Lee F2
Gulf Coast Savannahs
Owner: Melissa Petty, FL
Aether F7 SBT
Rainier Savannahs
owner: Stefanie Loewen, WA
Melody F7 SBT
Rainier Savannahs
Owner: Alysia Halpin, WA
Bearded Lady F7 SBT
Rainier Savannahs
Owner: Julie Lainey, WA
Elf F5 Clawson’s Ranch
Savannahs
Owner: Devan Clawson, WA
Spirit F7
AllEarz Savannahs
Owner: Trish Wilson, NV
Kilala F1 & Sterling HPF1
Owned by Scott Rapa
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SAVANNAH CAT RESCUE
Founded in 2003, Savannah Cat Rescue (SVR) is a volunteer service (not brick and mortar) by Savannah breeders Kristine Alessio and Brigitte Cowell Moyne, with a core group of volunteers across the United States and Canada. The mission of SVR is to rescue Savannah Cats and educate the public about the Savannah Cat Breed.
SVR cats come from various places, primarily breeders who've sold kittens to owners unprepared or unable to care for a Savannah Second, the breeder didn't assume responsibility when new owners needed help or decided to return the cat A good breeder will always take back a cat they've bred, regardless of age or circumstances Luckily, most Savannah breeders fall into this "good" category!
When owners first contact SVR, they are given information/tips to help them work through any problems they may be experiencing with their Savannah. If the owner is unable or unwilling to resolve through these recommendations, SVR can take possession of the cat with the owner's agreement (a legal surrender form).
SVR identifies qualified foster homes and places rescued cats for evaluation until they are placed into permanent homes SVR will work with foster homes
If necessary to rehabilitate cats, SVR will have them vetted (vaccinated and spayed/neutered) and evaluate
any special needs or requirements SVR gives first preference to foster homes if their home is a good fit
Although the Savannah breed is young, it's growing fast, and the number of Savannah cats and catteries producing Savannahs is increasing SVR expects to see more Savannah cats in rescue in the future, but this is NOT a reflection of a breed problem; it’s merely a fact of feline life.
We showcase available rescued Savannah cats on the SVR Facebook page or https://groups io/g/SavannahCatRescue SVR never knows when a cat will become available in any location Rescue Savannahs are typically adult cats of varying generations, ages, and genders and are rarely kittens All Savannahs available for adoption through SVR will be spayed or neutered and come from a foster or the current owner's home
Please check the Hybrid Law site to ensure Savannahs are legal where you live before asking about an available Savannah. SVR will NOT adopt to anyone living in an illegal area! Please feel free to contact your local Animal Control officer if you need more clarification about your community's legality, homeowners association, city, county, state, or province. Always ensure you're legally compliant with the number of pets you may own. We require landlord permission and proof to own a cat if you rent or lease your home
FOSTER ADOPT RESCUE
SAVANNAH CAT CARE FUND
Savannah Cat Care Fund (SVCCF) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to provide financial assistance throughout the United States to Savannah pet cat owners who cannot afford emergency care for their Savannah cats. SVCCF financial assistance applies to all illnesses and injuries requiring immediate emergency or urgent care.
The fund started because we were disheartened by the Savannah cats euthanized or surrendered when the owner(s) couldn't pay their veterinary bills This fund has been years in the making, and as our breed grows, so do its needs
The Savannah Cat Rescue team needed an organization to help Savannahs BEFORE being surrendered or euthanized A group evolved, and the idea came to fruition with the help of many people The SVCCF works with Savannah Cat Rescue to save our precious Savannahs The SVCCF works with the community and anyone needing emergency funds to save or help their Savannah cat
The goals of the Savannah Cat Care Fund are:
To generate financial support for the organization's initiatives through outreach and fundraising, primarily focusing on providing financial assistance to Savannah cat pet owners experiencing financial hardship due to unanticipated emergency/urgent cat care expenses.
To work with Savannah Rescue and help/save Savannah cats BEFORE they're surrendered or euthanized due to an owner's inability to provide emergency veterinary care.
To work with veterinarians on accepting pet insurance and allowing owners to pay only deductibles and copays.
To provide education and resources to Savannah owners as needed.
We define a Savannah cat as (a) a Savannah with TICA registration, (b) a Savannah rescued from SV Rescue with proof of such, or (c) a cat with no registration papers but deemed a Savannah by the SVCCF Board of Directors or their appointees; or, (d) a Savannah recognized and confirmed as such by the cat's breeder
