Serengeti cat

Breed of cat

Other names
Common nicknames
Origin	United States
Breed status
CFA
FIFe
IPCBA
TICA	standard

The Serengeti cat is a domestic cat breed developed to resemble the wild African serval without the use of any wild cat genes. This breed is known for its striking appearance, which includes long legs, large ears, and a spotted coat pattern reminiscent of its wild counterpart.

History

The Serengeti cat was first developed in the mid-1990s by Karen Sausman, a breeder from California, United States. The breed was created by crossing Bengal cats, which have a wild appearance, with Oriental Shorthairs, known for their elegant and sleek bodies. The goal was to produce a cat that had the look of a serval but was entirely domestic in nature.

Physical Characteristics

Serengeti cats are medium to large-sized cats with a muscular build. They have long legs and a long neck, which contribute to their graceful appearance. The head is slightly rounded with large, round-tipped ears that are set high on the head, giving them an alert expression.

Coat

The coat of a Serengeti cat is short and dense, with a silky texture. The most common coat pattern is spotted, with spots that can be black or dark brown on a background that ranges from gold to silver. The spots are randomly distributed and can vary in size and shape.

Color Variations

While the spotted pattern is the most recognized, Serengeti cats can also come in solid colors, although these are less common. The breed standard emphasizes the importance of the spotted pattern in maintaining the breed's resemblance to the serval.

Temperament

Serengeti cats are known for their active and playful nature. They are highly energetic and enjoy interactive play, making them well-suited for families with children or other pets. Despite their wild appearance, they are affectionate and enjoy human companionship.

Health

As a relatively new breed, the Serengeti cat does not have any specific health issues associated with it. However, like all cats, they should receive regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and dental check-ups, to ensure they remain healthy.

Recognition

The Serengeti cat is recognized by several cat registries, including The International Cat Association (TICA), which has established a breed standard for the Serengeti. The breed is still considered to be in development, and breeders continue to work on refining its characteristics.

Breeding

Breeding Serengeti cats requires careful selection to maintain the desired physical traits and temperament. Breeders focus on achieving the ideal spotted coat pattern and maintaining the breed's distinctive appearance.

Also see

• Bengal cat
• Oriental Shorthair
• Savannah cat
• Serval