Longevity
Life expectancy
Its usual lifespan is between 13 and 20 years, with variations linked to its veterinary care, its diet and its living conditions.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The breed benefits from overall robust health and does not present any known genetic disease.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Even in the absence of any known genetic predisposition, regular veterinary follow-up remains necessary to maintain its vaccination protection and monitor its overall condition.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Certain feline lines are predisposed to this heart muscle disease, hence the value of monitoring and, depending on origins, screening.
Chronic kidney disease: Common in older cats, it warrants monitoring appetite, thirst, and regular blood tests.
Periodontal disease: Tartar and gum inflammation are common and require consistent oral hygiene.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
Its short coat requires providing it with a sheltered and suitable environment, while its strong need for activity must be able to be met in complete safety.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
Its strong musculature and high activity level require a diet adapted to its morphology. Weight and body condition must be monitored in order to adjust intake to its actual expenditure.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Keep recommended vaccinations up to date
- Have the eyes and ears checked regularly
- Schedule regular veterinary follow-up
- Monitor weight and body condition
Vaccination
Savannah vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Savannah need? Like all cats, Savannahs should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. Kittens receive their initial Savannah vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if they live indoors. Depending on their lifestyle (outdoor access, living with other cats, shows, travel), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Depending on lifestyle Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisDepending on lifestyle Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Savannah booster shots are given annually for feline herpesvirus and feline leukemia if your cat goes outdoors. For feline panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your cat's lifestyle.
Which boosters does your Savannah need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Savannah
Regular veterinary check-ups and keeping vaccinations up to date against rabies, panleukopenia, leukemia and coryza are recommended.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
