In the vast environment of the internet world, certain slender bodied and charming spotted catsknown as savannah catsThey managed to attract the attention of millions. With over 1.1 billion views TikTokthese Crossbreeds between African wildcats and domestic cats They gained fame. But, possession is prohibited in many countries, including Spain, with some exceptions.. Because? Keep reading to find out!
The history of Savannah cats began on April 7, 1986, with the birth of the first cat of this breed in Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania, USA. fruit cross between cat siamese and servalThe Savannah breed, a spotted and striped cat found in South Africa, became popular when the Texas-based International Cat Association began registering it in 2001.
What makes Savannah cats so attractive?
According to Carlo Siracusa, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, he explains to National Geographic that his exoticism is a big attraction. like bengal cats, Savannahs mesmerize people with their wild looks.
But it’s not just their looks that make them special. Paige Dana, spokesperson for the International Cat Association’s Savannah Breed Committee, intelligence says, Her bond with humans and Savannah’s playful character make them almost canine companions.. Despite their beauty and charisma, the ownership of these cats is not without controversy.
International cat associations, including the Ohio Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and the Spanish Feline Association (ASFE), do not recognize Savannahs because of their wild roots. The CFA opposes promoting the breeding of cats with wild blood.a policy that reflects concerns about the risks posed by owning these animals.
Savannah cats are classified and evaluated based on their genetic affinity to their wild ancestors.. A Savannah F1 cat, i.e. a serval and a pet parent, can cost up to 15,000 euros, while an F5 can cost around 1,000 euros.
However, What about the legality of owning a Savannah cat? Depending on the location, different regulations may apply. For example, in Spain they are considered an exotic species and are generally prohibited from keeping them as pets.. To own a Savannah in Spain, the animal must be neutered, undergo annual veterinary checks and can only live in a zoo.
In the United States, regulations vary. They were banned while in New York, The State of New York allows the adoption of Savannah cats from the F5 generation. In other places like Hawaii, Rhode Island, Nebraska, and Georgia, as well as in Australia, it’s completely banned regardless of your generation.
Savannah cats can pet difficult because of its size and proximity to its wild heritage. First-generation Savannahs can have a hard time adjusting to home life. Additionally, males in particular can be territorial and have strong hunting instincts.
Despite these challenges, Savannah cat owners adore them. They are affectionate, playful and form a strong bond with their people. They are perfect for people looking for an interactive companion.
However, there are concerns about the issue. Impact of Savannah cats on local wildlife if they manage to escape. These fears led Australia to ban the ownership of Savannah cats in 2008. A 2019 study supported this decision, showing that the Savannahs could threaten up to 90% of local wildlife.
Ultimately, while Savannah cats aren’t going to disappear anytime soon, it’s important that there are regulations regarding their breeding and sale. As Syracuse said, “There’s demand, people are going to do it anyway, so it better be organized.”