History:

The Serengeti cat is a relatively new breed developed in the mid-1990s by Karen Sausman, a conservation biologist and breeder at Kingsmark Cattery in California. Her goal was to create a domestic cat that resembled the wild African serval—graceful, spotted, and long-legged—without using wild bloodlines. By crossing Bengals with Oriental Shorthairs, Sausman produced the first Serengeti cats. Unlike the Bengal, the Serengeti contains no wild DNA; its exotic look is achieved solely through selective breeding. The breed remains rare and is still under development, but it has gained recognition from the International Cat Association (TICA) as a preliminary new breed. Serengetis are known for their striking appearance, agile build, and lively, affectionate temperament.

Size: Medium to large-sized cat

Height: 22–30 cm

Weight: 4–7 kg

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Serengeti cat has a lean yet muscular frame, long legs, and a long neck that contribute to its wildcat-like silhouette. Its head is wedge-shaped with large, upright ears that sit high and wide apart, enhancing its alert expression. The breed’s coat is short, dense, and sleek, featuring bold, contrasting spots in patterns that resemble those of wild cats. Common coat colours include black, silver, smoke, and brown spotted tabby. The eyes are round and expressive, often gold or amber in colour, though green is also seen. The tail is medium to long, tapering gently, and the body moves with the elegance and fluidity of a feline predator, blending domestic charm with an exotic appearance.

Health & Care:

Serengetis are generally healthy, benefiting from a strong gene pool with no known breed-specific diseases. However, because they descend from Bengals and Oriental Shorthairs, they may inherit issues such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), though both are relatively rare. Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hairs and maintain shine. As a highly active breed, they thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation. Providing vertical space, interactive toys, and regular playtime is essential to support their overall well-being and prevent behavioural issues caused by boredom.

Living Conditions:

Serengeti cats adapt well to indoor environments but require ample room to move, leap, and explore. They are highly energetic and athletic, often climbing, running, and jumping to great heights. A cat-friendly home with plenty of shelves, cat trees, or safe outdoor enclosures is ideal. They form close bonds with their humans and are known for their loyalty and sociability. They do well in multi-pet households and can be affectionate with children. However, their active nature means they may be too rambunctious for very small or shy pets. Serengetis are vocal and expressive, often “talking” to their owners with a wide range of meows and chirps.

Grooming:

Grooming a Serengeti is straightforward thanks to its short, tight coat. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to keep the coat in good condition and reduce shedding. These cats enjoy grooming sessions if introduced to them early, which also serves as bonding time. Routine care such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene should be maintained for optimal health. Occasional baths are generally unnecessary unless the cat becomes particularly dirty. With minimal grooming needs, the Serengeti remains a low-maintenance breed despite its exotic appearance.

Advantages:

• Serengeti cats are stunningly beautiful and energetic companions that bring a touch of the wild into a fully domestic setting.

• Their affectionate and social personalities make them great pets for interactive households and families.

• Despite their exotic look, Serengetis are completely domestic and do not carry the behavioural challenges of hybrid cats.

• Their short coat is easy to care for and doesn’t mat, making grooming a breeze.

• They are intelligent, playful, and agile—great for owners who enjoy training or playing games with their pets.

Disadvantages:

• Serengetis require a lot of activity and mental stimulation; without it, they may become bored and destructive.

• Their high energy and strong prey drive may not be suitable for homes with small pets like birds or rodents.

• They are vocal and communicative, which can be overwhelming for those who prefer quieter breeds.

• Because the breed is still rare and under development, finding a reputable breeder can be difficult and costly.

• Their confident and independent streak can make them less cuddly or cooperative during quiet time, especially when overstimulated.