Full Grown F1 Savannah Cats: Size, Lifespan, Price & More
F1 Savannah cats are a popular exotic pet known for their unique appearance and personality traits. But what is an F1 Savannah cat really like once it reaches full grown size? This guide covers everything you need to know about fully matured F1 Savannah cats, from their characteristics and behaviors to costs and care requirements.
What Is an F1 Savannah Cat?
An F1 Savannah cat is the first filial generation (F1) offspring from breeding a serval (a medium-sized, wild African cat) with a domestic cat.
F1 Savannah cats retain more of the exotic serval's traits compared to subsequent filial generations. On average, an F1 Savannah cat contains 12.5% serval DNA.
Size at Full Grown
Male F1 Savannah cats typically reach a full grown size of 15-20 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 10-15 pounds.
In comparison to domestic cats, full grown F1 Savannahs are notably larger and more powerfully built with dense musculature.
Their elongated limbs and slim torso gives them a sleek, athletic appearance.
- Height: Males typically stand 15-20 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly shorter at 13-18 inches.
- Length: From nose to tail, most full grown male F1s range from 25-35 inches long. Females average 23-33 inches.
- Leg Length: Proportionate to their height, F1 Savannah cats have very long legs - usually 12-16 inches long each.
- Paw Size: Their large padded paws are suitable for their active hunting nature, commonly 3-4 inches wide.
- Ear Height: Towering ears help these cats stay alert - males' ears reach 4-6 inches tall, females' ears 3-5 inches.
As you can see, an adult F1 Savannah is considerably larger than the average domestic shorthair, resembling more of a mid-sized wild cat. Their elongated limbs, tall ears and big paws give them an unmistakably exotic jungle cat appearance.
Weight at Full Grown
In terms of weight, male F1 Savannah cats average between 15-25 pounds at full maturity. Females are usually lighter at 10-20 pounds. A healthy weight range for an adult male F1 is 15-20 pounds, while 12-15 pounds is ideal for females. Anything above or below these ranges could indicate a weight management issue.
Appearance at Full Grown
Visually, a full grown F1 Savannah cat retains the striking coloration and markings of their wild serval ancestor.
Their spotted or rosetted coat comes in various patterns from snowprint to marbled.
Big, tall tufted ears and long slender limbs equipped with large paws give them a very exotic, jungle cat-like appearance unlike any domestic breed.
Personality at Full Grown
As far as temperament, fully matured F1 Savannah cats tend to be high-energy, confident, and mischievous—much like overgrown kittens.
With their wild serval instincts still prominent, adult F1s enjoy active playtime, climbing, pouncing, and showing off their acrobatic abilities.
Early socialization and training is important to ensure they remain affectionate and behave appropriately in the home.
Price
Due to their wild exotic ancestry, F1 Savannah cats fetch a high price tag even after maturity.
A well-bred, full grown F1 from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $5,000-$15,000 depending on gender and coat color/markings.
Prices may be slightly lower for adult F1s purchased directly from owners rather than breeders.
Food/Feeding
When it comes to dietary needs, fully matured F1 Savannah cats require a high-quality protein diet that mimics their natural prey diet in the wild.
The best option is a canned raw or wet food that's meat-based rather than grain-free. Feed 1-3 5oz cans per day, divided into multiple small meals.
Make sure to avoid jumping into a free-feeding routine.
Lifespan
With proper care, the average lifespan of fully grown F1 Savannah cats ranges from 15-20 years. Some may live until their early-to-mid 20s.
Ensuring your adult F1 maintains a healthy weight, receives annual vet exams, and lives indoors only can help maximize their potential lifespan close to domestic hybrid averages.
Health at Full Grown
Common health issues that can potentially affect mature F1 Savannah cats include obesity, dental disease, joint problems like hip dysplasia, urinary tract issues, and skin allergies.
Proper diet, exercise, and preventative care can help keep your full grown F1 fit as a fiddle for many years to come.
Please, be sure to address any health or weight concerns promptly.
Care and Nutritional Needs
Due to their exotic pedigree and energetic nature, fully grown F1 Savannah cats require an owner who can meet their special care needs:
- Brush 2-3 times weekly to support skin and coat health
- Provide ample horizontal space for jumping/climbing
- Schedule interactive play sessions daily
- Keep nails trimmed to prevent damage to owner
- Supply kitty grass/greens to support oral hygiene
- Consider elevated feeding stations to mimic prey behavior
- Create vertical space with cat trees/shelves
Costing
Here's a breakdown of average monthly/annual costs for caring for a fully grown F1 Savannah cat:
- Food: $50-75 per month
- Litter/litter box supplies: $20-30 per month
- Toys/enrichment: $15-30 per month
- Medical Fund: $50-100 per month
- Grooming supplies: $15-30 per month
- Insurance (optional): $30-100 per month
- Total average costs: $180-330 per month; $2,200-4,000 annually
Possible Behavioural Changes
As F1 Savannah cats mature into adulthood, some subtle behavioral shifts may occur compared to their playful kitten stages:
- May become more aloof/independent but still affectionate on their terms
- May engage in marking/claiming territory behaviors like scratching furniture
- Mouthing/nipping during playtime lessens but prey drive instincts remain strong
- Tendency for climbing/jumping reaches an expert level
- May become more vocal, especially if in heat or seeking attention
Notable Characteristics
Key traits that truly define the unique nature of full grown F1 Savannah cats include:
- Athletic, high-energy demeanor requiring mental and physical stimulation
- Strong prey drive reflected in hunting/fetching play behavior
- Natural curiosity and problem-solving abilities far beyond domestic cats
- Loyal, affectionate bonds with preferred humans despite independent nature
- Stunning wild cat appearance with tall tufted ears and colorful spotted coats /ul>
