Savannah cats are known for their large size. Though not the largest cat breed they are much larger than most cats.

One of the cool aspects of Savannah cats is their size, which can often be compared to that of dogs. In this article, we will explore why Savannah cats are comparable to dogs in size, and how their size compares to different dog breeds.

So let's dive in!

How Big Are Savannah Cats?

To start, let's first dive into how big is the average size of Savannah cats.

Savannah cats are certainly not your average-sized cat breed. These cats can grow to be quite large, resembling their wild ancestor, the African Serval. On average, Savannah cats stand between 14 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder, making them comparable in height to some dog breeds and weighing between 3.5 and 8.2 kilograms (7.7 and 18.1 lb).

Their body length can range from 17 to 22 inches, excluding the tail, which adds 8 to 16 inches. This gives Savannah cats a large looking appearance, as they appear longer and leaner than most domesticated cats.

Why Savannah Cats Are Comparable to Dogs in Size?

Savannah cats are known for their large size, which is often comparable to that of small to medium sized dog breeds. This is primarily due to their hybrid genetics, with the serval their ancestor being a larger wild cat. When domestic cats are crossbred with servals, the resulting offspring inherit some of the serval's size genes, leading to a larger and more robust body structure.

Savannah cats have long legs, giving them an appearance similar to that of a small wildcat. These factors contribute to their overall size, which can rival that of certain dog breeds.

So in the end it comes down to their breeding and genetics.

Savannah Cat Size Compared To Different Dog Breeds

On average, Savannah cats can measure anywhere from 17 to 24 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh between 7 to 18 pounds. This puts them in the same size range as small to medium-sized dog breeds such as:

• Beagle
• French Bulldog
• Shih Tzu
• Cocker Spaniel
• Shiba Inu
• Jack Russell Terrier

The Factors Influencing The Size Of Savannah Cats

Several factors influence the size of Savannah cats. One of the main factors is the generation of the hybrid. F1 Savannah cats, which are first-generation hybrids, tend to be larger than F2 or F3 generations. The serval genes are more dominant in earlier generations, resulting in larger cats.

Additionally, nutrition plays a super vital role in the size of Savannah cats. Just like us humans, a balanced and nutritious diet during growth stages can contribute to maximizing size and development.

Are There Other Savannah Cat Characteristics That Are Dog-Like?

Apart from their size, there are other Savannah cat characteristics that are reminiscent of dogs.

Their Playfulness

Savannah Cats are renowned for their boundless energy and playfulness, behaviors usually not found in typical domestic cats. Their playfulness often goes way beyond the conventional cat activities, as they engage in interactive play, games of fetch, and even mimic the exuberant enthusiasm seen in dogs.

These cats thrive on mental and physical stimulation, making play an essential aspect of their daily routine. Whether chasing toys or participating in structured play sessions.

Socialization

Their high level of sociability is another characteristic that makes them even similar to dogs. Unlike the stereotypical laziness associated with some cats, Savannahs tend to form strong bonds with their human owners.

They seek out interaction, enjoying not only physical touch but also participating in the daily activities of their household. Their sociable nature extends to other pets as well, as they may be amicable and enjoy the company of other animals.

Walking on a Leash

This might come as a surprise but Savannah Cats can be trained to walk on a leash and enjoy it. A behavior typically associated with dogs. The adaptability and willingness of Savannah Cats to accept leashes show just how high their intelligence and receptiveness to activities that go beyond the classics of a traditional indoor cat.

Their Loyalty

Contrary to the common perception of cats as independent, Savannah Cats often have a high level of loyalty to their owners. They tend to want to be near their owners, whether lounging on the same piece of furniture, following them from room to room, or even engaging in sounds to express themselves.

This strong bond resembles the loyalty commonly associated with dogs.

The Bottom Line

So there you have it, their hybrid genetics, influenced by the serval, contribute to their larger size, making them comparable to small to medium-sized dog breeds.

If you are looking for a cat friend who has some of the qualities of dogs, Savannah cats might be the perfect choice for you.

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