Savannah vs. Bengal Cat: Best Comparison

Savannah vs. Bengal Cat: Best Comparison

Savannah cats were developed as an unusual cross between a domestic and serval cat native to African deserts. It was accepted as a new breed by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2001. Savannah cats are tall and have long characteristic triangular ears. 

Interestingly their hunting skills are much more vital compared to many other breeds. 

The breeding of Bengal cats, which are the only domestic cats with “rosette marking,” is credited to Jean Mill, and it dates back to the late 19th century. 

It was developed as a cross between a domestic cat and with Asian Leopard cat producing a generation of domestic cats with wild coats. 

The First, Second, and Third Generation Bengal male cats are infertile. However, their females are fertile, which is used in successive Bengal Cat breeding. 

Savannah

Bengal

Differences

Very tall and normal body weight

Average to tall with athletic body

Large rounded and erect ears

Small ears

Brown or black spotted tabby

Characteristic rosette markings

Have an ocellus

No ocellus

Similarities

1.     Both breeds have spots and markings on their body

2.    Both domestic cats may need a suitable amount of anaesthesia depending upon the medical needs of the breed.

3.    Bengal breeds may be prone to Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM); thus, a breed developed from a cross between a serval and Bengal domestic cats may require a medical scan to look for this disease. 

4.    Both are domestic breeds.

Appearance (Savannah)

Savannah
Savannah

Savannah cats are large cats weighing 12-25 pounds. 

They have long legs and tall ears, making them look heavier than they are. 

Another essential and characteristic feature of Savannah cats is their wide and large ears resting upon their unique small triangular heads. 

They have long, slim necks. An ocellus- a band that is light from the middle point and dark from corners, is present behind the neck, adding up to exotic external features of Savannah cats. 

Their color pattern might be black, silver tabby, and brown tabby.

Appearance (Bengal) 

Bengal
Bengal

Bengal cats have a distinctive spotted coat. They sometimes also have marbled strips. Two other standard patterns are ticked and mackerel. 

Their weight lies in the range of 8-15 pounds. As far as their physique is concerned, Bengal cats have massive athletic bodies with sleek and shiny coats.

Maintenance (Savannah)

Savannah breeds require less maintenance as they are low shedding. 

They do not possess long hair; thus, a simple regular combing would suffice. 

They are incredibly active and require keeping an eye on as they may get themselves into a range of situations requiring bathing. 

They do not require brushing as often as other breeds. The Savannah will require regular eye cleansing to help prevent a build-up in their tear ducts. 

In addition, a nail trimming session every week is also recommended.

Maintenance (Bengal)

Bengal cats are not high-maintenance cats in terms of physique. 

They are good with regular bathing, trimming, and medical checkups sessions. However, being an artificial breed, they demand a substantial emotional investment as they will require regular training and exercise. 

In terms of human attention, they are very demanding as they bond quickly and firmly and mix well with families. 

They love attention and hate being ignored. 

Temperament (Savannah)

Savannah cats are famous for their hunting instincts. They are very active, energetic, adventure-loving, and excited in nature. 

They sometimes seem to have a more dog-like personality; however, they are trainable. Savannah cats love playing in the water. 

They can also be trained to walk on a rope or cord. They are brilliant and learn new skills quickly. Due to their energetic nature, they will follow you throughout the house. 

However, it is best not to have a Savannah cat if you are also a bird owner or own another cat due to their hunting instincts.

Temperament (Bengal)

Bengal cats may be both energetic and lazy. They are great water lovers and have high energy levels. 

They are also famous for their loyalty, friendliness, and trainable nature. 

Suitable for 

Bengal cats are needy. They can’t be owned by someone who is not ready to invest in them emotionally and financially. 

They may be called clingy and may require constant need for attention and care. In fact, they literally hate being ignored. 

They do not suit well living in an apartment or flat. 

Regarding Savannah cats, they too are high maintenance in time and attention. 

They require commitment and demand a good trainer as they have excellent learning abilities.

 Check Out More Cats Comparison Guide

Which cat is right for you?

Both cats are expensive breeds, and one must only invest a considerable amount of money to buy and maintain these breeds.