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Serengeti

The Serengeti is a rare spotted cat with long legs and a wild serval-like look, yet entirely domestic ancestry and a friendly temperament.

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Breed information

Country: United States
Life span: 12–15 years
Height: large size
Weight: males: 12–15 kg, females: 8–12 kg
Coat: short spotted coat
Suitable for: active families, spacious homes and owners ready for extensive play and companionship

Tags

cats cat breeds rare short-haired spotted

Rating

Breed characteristics

Activity 9/10

Trainability 8/10

Good with children 8/10

Shedding 4/10

Guarding 6/10

Care 5/10

Description

About the breed

The Serengeti is a rare spotted cat with long legs and a wild serval-like look, yet entirely domestic ancestry and a friendly temperament.

Breed history

The breed was created in the United States during the 1990s by biologist and breeder Karen Sausman. Her goal was a domestic cat with the appearance of a serval but no serval blood. Bengal and Oriental Shorthair cats formed the foundation, and TICA registered the Serengeti as a new breed.

Appearance and features

The Serengeti has tall slim legs, a long neck, muscular body, wedge-shaped face, large eyes and notably large ears. The coat is short, with main colours including brown tabby, black spotted and silver with dark spots.

Temperament

This is an affectionate, social and energetic cat that responds closely to the family’s mood and likes staying near people. It is playful, intelligent and usually friendly with children and pets.

Care and lifestyle

Brush the short coat weekly. Trim claws about every ten days, clean eyes and ears as required and brush teeth several times a week.

Health

The breed is generally considered healthy, although data remain limited because it is young. Gangliosidosis has been discussed in some lines, making DNA testing useful for breeding cats.

Best suited for

The Serengeti suits an active household where someone is often present and there is room to move. It is unsuitable for prolonged solitude or a sedentary lifestyle.

Temperament

Temperament and behavior

This is an affectionate, social and energetic cat that responds closely to the family’s mood and likes staying near people. It is playful, intelligent and usually friendly with children and pets.

The Serengeti does not tolerate long isolation well and may need time to adjust to a move or major changes in the home. A stable environment, generous space and gradual introductions are helpful.

Care

Care and keeping

Brush the short coat weekly. Trim claws about every ten days, clean eyes and ears as required and brush teeth several times a week.

Daily routine

Tall climbing furniture, running games, puzzle toys and regular social contact are essential. Outdoor access should be limited to a secure enclosure or harness walks.