In Savannah cats, the “F” number refers to the generation or filial number, indicating how many generations removed a cat is from its wild African Serval ancestor. Each “F” number (F1, F2, etc.) represents the distance from the original Serval, impacting the cat’s appearance, size, temperament, and other traits. Here’s a breakdown of what each F number means and how it affects the characteristics of a Savannah cat:
What Does “F” Stand For?
The “F” in F1, F2, etc., stands for “filial,” which means “generation.” In genetics, “filial” describes the generations descended from a particular set of parents. For Savannah cats, the F number signifies the number of generations from the original wild Serval, with F1 being the closest and each subsequent number representing further distance.
F1 Savannah Cats (First Filial Generation)
F1 Savannahs are the first generation, with one Serval parent and one domestic cat parent. This makes them approximately 50% Serval.
Appearance: F1s usually have the most exotic appearance, closely resembling their wild Serval parent. They have long legs, large ears, a lean muscular build, and the distinctive spotted coat with bold markings.
Size: F1 Savannahs are typically the largest, often weighing between 15 and 25 pounds, though some may exceed this. They can stand 16 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
Temperament: F1s retain many wild traits, making them more independent and high-energy. They are often highly intelligent, curious, and athletic but may require more socialization to adapt well to a domestic setting. They bond closely with their owners but can be aloof with strangers.
Care Requirements: Due to their Serval lineage, F1s need substantial space, enrichment, and may do best in homes with experience handling exotic or hybrid breeds.
F2 Savannah Cats (Second Filial Generation)
F2 Savannahs have one F1 parent and one domestic cat parent, making them roughly 25% Serval.
Appearance: While still exotic, F2s may have a slightly softer look than F1s. They retain the tall legs, large ears, and spotted coat but may not look quite as wild as F1s.
Size: F2 Savannahs are often slightly smaller than F1s, generally weighing between 12 to 20 pounds. They maintain a tall, slender build but may be less muscular.
Temperament: F2s are still very active, playful, and intelligent. They are usually more social and adaptable than F1s, making them a good choice for those wanting an exotic pet that is a bit easier to manage.
Care Requirements: While still needing substantial enrichment and exercise, F2s are more adaptable to typical home environments than F1s.
F3 Savannah Cats (Third Filial Generation)
F3 Savannahs are three generations removed from the Serval, with an F2 parent and one domestic cat parent. They are approximately 12.5% Serval.
Appearance: F3s continue to show an exotic look but with more domestic features. They still have spotted coats, large ears, and lean bodies, though they may not be as pronounced as F1s or F2s.
Size: F3s tend to weigh around 10 to 17 pounds, and while still tall and slender, they are smaller than F1 and F2 Savannahs.
Temperament: F3s are generally more sociable and easier to handle, with a blend of playfulness, curiosity, and affection. They are more accepting of strangers and other pets, making them more suitable for households with multiple people or animals.
Care Requirements: F3s adapt well to indoor life, needing less space and being less demanding than earlier generations, though they still benefit from plenty of exercise and interactive play.
F4 Savannah Cats (Fourth Filial Generation)
F4 Savannahs are four generations removed from the Serval, with an F3 parent and one domestic cat parent. They are around 6.25% Serval.
Appearance: F4s have an exotic look but resemble domestic cats more than F1-F3 generations. They retain some Serval traits, such as large ears, a spotted coat, and a sleek build, but the wild look is less pronounced.
Size: F4 Savannahs are smaller, typically weighing between 10 and 15 pounds, making them more similar in size to larger domestic cat breeds.
Temperament: F4s are typically friendly, playful, and affectionate. They retain the intelligence and curiosity of the Savannah
