The Serval Cat
The Serval is the ancestor of the Savannah cat. Let’s get straight to it: the Serval cat is a wild animal. These elegant creatures are beautiful to look at, but they are definitely not meant to be pets. In this article, we’ll explore the history, personality and appearance of the Serval cat. We’ll also explain what it means to own one and what the price could be.
History of the Serval Cat
The Serval cat originates from the African savannah. They are mainly found in the south and mostly live alone, except during mating season. While the Serval is not endangered, its population has declined significantly in the last decade.
In the late 1980s, breeders experimented by crossing the Serval with Siamese cats. This resulted in the Savannah cat. The early generations were still quite wild, but by the fourth or fifth generation, they resembled regular domestic cats. Though their appearance remains similar, the Serval is best left in the wild.
Temperament of the Serval Cat
The Serval cat is not only wild but also difficult to tame. Even when raised in captivity, Servals often remain shy around humans. They are intelligent, curious and alert, and they enjoy playing. However, playtime with a domestic cat is not recommended — they can be quite rough.
Despite their beauty, Servals are not house pets. Even if fully socialised from a young age, they retain their wild instincts. They might behave well at home but remain unpredictable with strangers.
