SAVANNAHGANS - THE International Savannah Cat Magazine FA2022
Fall 2022
Summer Catio and Enclosure Contest Winners
Featured Breeder Interview with Kronos Savannah
Understanding the Savannah (SV) Cat TICA Breed Standard
TICA Cat Shows: Recent Winners and Why Shows Are Important to the Breed
Nontoxic House Plants That Are Safe for Your Cat
Are You Prepared For a Weather Emergency?
EDITOR'S DESK
What's New and Acknowledgements
CATIO AND ENCLOSURE SUMMER CONTEST WINNERS
THE SAVANNAH CAT BREED STANDARD
By: Debra Roberts of SAVANNAHGANS®
OUTSTANDING CATTERY PROGRAM
By: Julie Laney of Rainier Savannahs
TICA CAT SHOW 2022 WINNERS
By: Debra Roberts of SAVANNAHGANS®
F A L L 2 0 2 2
AN INTERVIEW WITH SAVANNAH CAT BREEDERS ANNA AND ANDREW PAVLENKO OF KRONOS SAVANNAH
By: Debra Roberts of SAVANNAHGANS®
BREEDER DIRECTORY
NONTOXIC HOUSE PLANTS THAT ARE SAFE FOR YOUR CAT
By: Debra Roberts of SAVANNAHGANS®
PRINTABLE PET SITTER FILLABLE INSTRUCTIONS
By: Debra Roberts of SAVANNAHGANS®
WHAT'S YOUR PLAN FOR YOUR CAT IN A WEATHER-RELATED EMERGENCY?
By: Julie Laney of Rainier Savannahs
On the Cover: F1 "Miley," owned by Jennifer Ostrander of "Bananas for Savannahs" and bred by Drinkwater Cats.
By: Debra Roberts with Julie Laney, Sponsor
Welcome to the ELEVENTH edition of SAVANNAHGANS® - THE International Savannah Cat Magazine
Welcome Fall! Let's see what's on the SAVAGENDA for October-December!
First, for those new to the magazine, let me introduce myself. FIVE Savannahs own my husband and me--four of whom are five years old, and a new baby of 7 months joined our jungle in late May. I started this magazine for a few reasons-my love for Savannahs being number one The other is that there's much to learn when selecting the best kitten from the right breeder Not only did I choose the wrong breeder the first time, resulting in no kitten, but our next kitten, Luna, beat a fatal disease (FIP) and became the world's first survivor from a successful drug trial What started as a hobby blog morphed into a digital magazine and website Then came our Facebook group, where I find a good bit of my content and ultimately, our online Breeder Directory We also commissioned comic Jerry King to create custom Savannah cartoons and held a few contests too!
SAVANNAHGANS® publishes informative and entertaining content from Savannah enthusiasts and experts in a whimsical, electronic, FREE publication We combine factual, heart-warming stories with health and safety education The list of knowledgeable contributors sharing stories and experiences with our readers is steadily growing, so there's no lack of great content to publish! Current and future owners can easily search our website for great information and facts about our wonderful breed.
During our second year, SAVANNAHGANS® earned the support of our first corporate sponsor, Dr. Elsey. (Please click on Dr. Elsey's banner at the top of our website to take the litter quiz, print coupons, or read up on their blog!) Sponsors, ads, articles, media contributors, and the new breeder directory are the backbone of our continued development! Thank you to everyone who advertises with us and helps to keep this e-magazine FREE to readers everywhere!
SAVANNAHGANS® welcomes ALL cat lovers to enjoy our content Whether searching for new cat products, health advice, feeding tips, or an excellent DIY project, you'll find it all in each quarterly issue and at www savannahgans com We share a portion of all donations and affiliate revenue with the Savannah Care and Rescue Funds We also recently launched our "Friends of SAVANNAHGANS®" program, so check that out and consider supporting us! Please visit our website's Amazon, Etsy, and other links on our website when shopping for your household needs as we earn commissions
Three-year-old F1 "Kara" of "Savannahs of Coachella" isn't so sure about this witch hat!
VANNAH
Is there a subscription fee to read SAVANNAHGANS® Magazine?
The e-magazine and website are a labor of love from one Savannah lover to all others How is SAVANNAHGANS® Magazine available to read?
Click "THE Magazine" in the menu and select the issue you wish to read It will open in full size with navigation arrows for page-turning
I have a Savannah story or article I'd like to share/write. How can I get it published?
You can submit your story idea by clicking on the "About/Contact" tab in the website's menu How often is SAVANNAHGANS® e-Magazine published?
SAVANNAHGANS® publishes on the first day of each quarter: January, April, July, and October
How can I purchase ad space for my business or cattery?
Click the "Contact" tab on the top of the home page to inquire about ads and the Breeder Directory.
SAVANNAHGANS® Magazine
Catio and Enclosure
Photo Contest Winners
Category1:Window,Balcony,UrbanEnclosures
Category2:GroundCatioEnclosures
*ContestSponsoredbyRainierSavannahs, JulieLaney* AlicjaMaciejkoofWadowice,Poland (SavannahTempleCattery) and AmandaBraverman-Brohnof Wisconsin,U.S.(SavannahRoyale Cattery)
Alicja Maciejko of Wadowice, Poland: Located on our balcony off our bedroom, this is a wood, metal, and mesh enclosure with strong panels. Wooden slats are nailed on both sides to make it safer. We can open the window on hot days, and the cats can enjoy a safe outdoor space too. I'm happy with the result and, of course, the view from the balcony ♡. The second picture is my stud enclosure on the side, a 25m2 (312 sq ft) outdoor space made from strong 5mm metal panels. The enclosure has plenty of lodges, a cat wheel, and toys.
Amanda Braverman-Brohn of Wisconsin, U.S.: We used Tractor Supply Co. chicken coop panels, arranged as 8’x12’. The catio is 10’ tall at its highest point since we built it over stairs. We used additional 4’x4’ panels from Menards across the top. For safety, we added a stainless steel tube through the top and between some of the panels to make it sturdier and to make the gaps smaller. The cats can access the catio from the door or a window in one of the cat rooms.
The Savannah (SV) Cat TICA Breed Standard
The Savannah cat breed's miraculous story starts with the surprise birth of a single Serval-domestic hybrid kitten. From there, it evolved with several breeders responsible and recognized for the founding and progression of the Savannah breed, gaining The International Cat Association (TICA) Breed Recognition Without TICA's recognition, the Savannah cat was nothing more than a hybrid cat, not an actual breed
1996 Patrick Kelley, Joyce Sroufe, and a Bengal breeder, Karen Sausman, wrote the original version (below) of the “Savannah Breed Standard” and presented it to the TICA Board of Directors The following pages are the formal Breed Standard and a more colorful visualization of how a Savannah should appear
“Cat shows were very important because that’s how people learn about breeds The organizations holding shows are the arbiters of what a breed is and a designer mutt is. Shows educate the public, and they also aid in breed development. Comparing your Savannah to the best Bengals, Ocicats, and Maus show they have a distinct look. Showing cats is important if you breed later generations”. Brigitte Cowell Moyne
Shape - 6
Ears - 7
Eyes -
Chin - 4
Muzzle - 4
Profile - 4
Nose - 3
Neck - 6
HEAD - 40 points
Shape: The face forms an equilateral triangle: the triangle is formed by the brow line over the eyes, and the sides follow down the jaw bone with a rounded finish at the muzzle Above this triangle, the forehead and ears form a rectangle from the brow line to the tops of the ears The head is small in proportion to the body
Ears: Ears are remarkably large and high on the head They are wide with a deep base. They should be very upright and have rounded tops. The outside base of the ear should start no lower on the head than the height of the eyes but may be set higher. The inside base of the ears is set close at the top of the head; ideally, a vertical line can be drawn from the inner corner of the eye up to the inner base of the ear. Ear furnishings may be present; pronounced ocelli are desirable.
Eyes: Medium-sized and set underneath a slightly hooded brow The top of the eye resembles a boomerang set at the exact angle so that the corner of the eye slopes down the line of the nose The bottom half of the eye has an almond shape The eyes are moderately deep set, low on the forehead, and at least one eye width apart Tear stain markings are present along and between the eye and the nose All eye colors are allowed and are independent of coat color
Chin: From the frontal view, the chin tapers to follow the triangle of the head In profile, the nose is slightly protruding so that the angle from the nose to the chin slants back, which may cause the chin to appear recessed
Muzzle: The muzzle is tapered with no break. It falls within the bottom portion of the facial triangle that runs from the brow to the point of the chin. Whisker pads are not pronounced.
Profile: The forehead is a straight to slightly convex curve from the top of the head to the ridge just above the eye, where there is a slight change of direction and a straight to very slight concave curve from that ridge to the tip of the nose In profile, the face forms a triangle from the top of the eye to the tip of the nose, turning to follow the jawline and back up to the eye
Nose: Viewing from the front, the nose is wide across the top with low-set nostrils The profile has a slight downward turn at the end, giving a rounded appearance Nose leather is slightly convex and wraps up over the nose
Neck: The neck should be long and lean
Torso - 8
Legs - 8
Feet - 3
Tail - 7
Boning - 7
Musculature - 7
BODY - 40 points
Torso: The torso is long, lean, and well-muscled with a full, deep rib cage, prominent shoulder blades, a slight, but not extreme, tuck-up, and a rounded rump The hip and thigh are full, long, and somewhat heavy in proportion to the rest of the body
Legs: Longer than average, well-muscled, without appearing heavy or overly delicate The back legs are slightly longer than the front legs
Feet: Oval, medium in size.
Tail: Medium to thick in width. Medium in length, ending between the hock and just above ground level when standing with preferred length just below the hock. The tail should taper slightly to a blunt end. Whippy tails are not desired.
Boning: Medium boning with density and strength
Musculature: Firm, well-developed, yet smooth
Texture - 8
Pattern - 8
Color - 4
COAT/COLOR/PATTERN - 20 points
COAT: Short to medium length with good substance and a slightly coarse feel Coarser guard hairs cover a softer undercoat; the spots have a notably softer texture than the guard hairs The coat is not inordinately dense and lies relatively flat against the body
COLORS: Black, Brown (Black) Spotted Tabby, Black Silver-spotted Tabby, Black Smoke There is no preference for ground color on the brown (black) spotted tabby Bold, solid markings are preferable on all tabbies In any variation, the lips are black, and the tear duct lines are prominent. On the spotted Savannahs, the nose leather can be pink to brick red surrounded by liner, solid black, or black with a pink to brick center stripe. In black Savannahs, the nose leather must be solid black. Paw pads in either color variation should be deep charcoal or brownish-black.
PATTERN: SPOTTED PATTERN ONLY. The spotted Savannah pattern consists of bold, solid, dark-brown to black spots, which can be round, oval, or elongated. A series of parallel stripes, from the back of the head to just over the shoulder blades, fan out slightly over the back, and the spotting pattern follows the line of the stripes from the shoulders, continuing the length of the body Smaller spots are found on the legs, feet, and face In the black Savannah, ghost spotting may occur A visible spotting pattern on the smoke Savannah is preferred In all divisions, all visible patterns must be spotted
TEMPERAMENT: The ideal Savannah is to be a confident, alert, curious, and friendly cat
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The overall impression of the Savannah is a tall, lean, graceful cat with striking dark spots and other bold markings on a background color of any shade of brown, silver, black, or black smoke The Savannah cat is a domestic breed that resembles its ancestral source, the African Serval but is smaller in stature Affectionate and outgoing, with an exceptionally long neck, legs, tall ears, and a medium-length tail, the Savannah is both unusual and beautiful The Savannah is also an exceptionally graceful, well-balanced cat with striking colors and patterns
ALLOWANCES: Females are proportionately smaller than males
PENALIZE: Rosettes. Spots that are any color other than dark brown to black. Any distinct locket on the neck, chest, abdomen, or any other area not provided for in the standard. Vertically aligned spots or mackerel tabby-type stripes. Cobby body. Small ears.
DISQUALIFY (DQ): Extra toes.
Temperament must be unchallenging; any sign of definite challenge shall disqualify The cat may exhibit fear, seek to flee, or generally complain aloud but may not threaten to harm In accordance with Show Rules, ARTICLE SIXTEEN, the following shall be considered mandatory disqualifications: a cat that bites (216 9), a cat showing evidence of intent to deceive (216 10), adult whole male cats not having two descended testicles (216 11), cats with all or part of the tail missing, except as authorized by a Board-approved standard (216 12 1), cats with more than five toes on each front foot and four toes on each back foot unless proved the result of an injury or as authorized by a Board-approved standard (216 12 2), visible or invisible tail faults if Board-approved standard requires disqualification (216 12 4), crossed eyes if Board-approved standard requires disqualification (216 12 5), total blindness (216 12 6), markedly smaller size, not in keeping with the breed (216 12 9), and depression of the sternum or unusually small diameter of the rib cage itself (216 12 11 1) See Show Rules, ARTICLE SIXTEEN, for more comprehensive rules governing penalties and disqualifications.
17
TICA Outstanding Cattery Program
By: Julie Laney, Rainier Savannahs™
My cattery, Rainier Savannahs™ has participated in the TICA Outstanding Cattery Program for the last two in keeping with the Mission and Policy Statements of TICA It has adopted the Cattery Evaluation Progra Code of Ethics required to receive the TICA Outstanding certificate After seeing much interest in the pro distinction, TICA suggested I write an article.
The Cattery Evaluation form itself contains 44 items that, when initially read, appear very easy to accomp challenging parts for me are the records housekeeping and my vet making the time for a house call. My vet made sure that I had duplicate copies of every chart and treatment plan for every cat in my program and did their annual exams and shots due while she was at the house doing the inspection. She then went above and beyond and helped me create a file for each queen where I filed all contracts, registration papers, and medical records for all kittens that had left our cattery. She has done this for two years in a row now
The TICA Outstanding Cattery Code of Ethics is the same code of ethics you sign when you create your cattery--but a bit beefed up You can send the Code of Ethics to TFMS to create a case Your cattery certificate will generate after your veterinarian sends the form with the $30 fee
Due to its ease, we should all be "Outstanding Catteries" because the breeders in this organization already do the items listed on the evaluation form Having this distinction shows you go the extra mile for your cattery just food for thought
RW BayAreaSavannah "Sindel"
-Mid Pacific regions’ 2022
Best Savannah Cat of the Year. She reached her Double Grand Champion status this season
RW SGC CatVision "Ramsey A Miti"
- Best Savannah cat (region)
- 3rd Best Savannah worldwide.
- Best of Breed (region)
- 23 Best All Breed Cat (region)
- Region winner
- Supreme Grand Champion ( Region Europe North 2022)
RW QGC "Ezra" of CatVision
- Second best Savannah cat (region)
- 5th Best Savannah worldwide.
- 25th Best SH cat (region)
- Region winner
- Quadruple Grand Champion ( Region Europe north 2022)
CH CatVision
"Akilah Joemana"
-Best Silver Savannah cat (region)
-Champion ( Region Europe north 2022)
CH CatVision
"Navarra Espanja"
-Second best
Silver Savannah (region)
"Hawassa, Kygo" of Sunshine Savannahs
An Interview With Savannah
Cat Breeders Anna and Andrew Pavlenko of Kronos Savannah
An Interview With Savannah Cat Breeders Anna and Andrew Pavlenko of Kronos Savannah
Please tell us about your location, background, family, past or current occupation(s) besides breeding, and hobbies/interests.
Hello, we are Anna and Andrew Pavlenko, located in Kyiv, Ukraine; but currently, we are located in the western part of Ukraine in a small town near the Polish border We have to relocate because of war and dangerous situations in Kyiv Before the war, we also had a small family business connected with meat products, but currently, it not working, and we are fully focused on breeding. Another hobby for us is helping homeless animals and animal shelters. Before the war, we often rescued homeless animals and placed them in new families. Our family has one rescued cat and two dogs from the shelter.
How did you get started with Savannah breeding?
Cats have always been a part of our life; since childhood, every one of us has had cats, and even when Andrew and I started to live together, we bought two cats They were British shorthair Our love for the Savannah breed started long before we purchased our first savannah kitten We desperately wanted to have serval or savannah kittens We bought our first Savannah F1 boy, "Kronos," in 2016, and since that time, are entirely in love with this breed After Kronos appeared in our life, we decided we wanted to breed kittens like him We were fond of his beauty and personality Besides, there was only one Savannah cat breeder in Ukraine then, and the breed was not popular and mostly unknown to people
How long have you been breeding Savannahs?
We started our program in 2017-2018 when we bought our first serval boy Solomon and two f5 girls for him - Leia and Freya At the same time, we bought a plot of land in Kyiv to build a house for our cattery In the summer of 2018, Leia gave birth to her first kitten Unfortunately, they were born premature, and we were not experienced enough to save them So we have lost our first F1 litter It was shocking and depressing I cried for a couple of weeks; it broke my heart Our first savannah litter was born on May 12, 2019--six little Savannah F1 kittens
Is your family involved with your cattery work?
Our family is involved in the cattery life, but my husband and I do most of the work. Our daughter helps us carry kittens, play with them, and make them the sweetest babies with the best personalities. Also, our parents help us sometimes with kittens and adult cats
What's your typical daily routine at your cattery from morning to evening?
Our typical day starts in the morning. Firstly we feed our cat mothers and their kittens, and then we give a little food to the adult cats, it can be a couple of oneday chickens or quail After the morning feeding, we usually do different home jobs, play with cats and kittens, have free time, or go shopping Our next feeding time comes at 4-5:00 pm, a time for the big feeding When we feed all our cats and dogs, it takes about 2 hours to feed them all After this, we have family time, watching movies, playing board games, and spending time together Before we go to sleep, from 10-11:00 pm, we feed mothers and kittens for the last time and wish them all a good night
What's the best part about breeding?
I love to be with my cats, and the best part of breeding is our happy moments with them I love almost everything about breeding I like nurturing kittens, I love playing with them, I love when they find their best families, and I love being with my cats
What's the worst/most challenging part about breeding?
Every breeder has faced these problems repeatedly, and I think the hardest part is when cats are sick Savannah breeding is very hard in breeding, especially for early generations, kittens are often born premature, and it's very hard to help them, doing everything that you can do in this situation It's very painful to see when kittens die or are born prematurely It's hard to see the momma cat's eyes She already loves her kittens so much and is ready to be a mother, but the kittens are dying This year was tough for me as I had to leave my cats in Kyiv with my husband at the start of the war. I love them so much and worried I'd never see them again. And next, we have to evacuate all the cats to the safe part of the country. It took a lot of time and nerves to do it. Next, we had problems making comfortable rooms for them in the new house, and we had to do it fast. It was madness, but we have overcome all these struggles.
Did you or do you have a breeder mentor(s) you wish to acknowledge?
No, I don't. Everything I know, I've comprehended through my own experience and learned everything myself
Have you mentored other breeders, and if yes, who?
I have a lot of breeder friends, and it's great that everybody is friendly and responsible in this business. It's easy to communicate with other breeders from all over the world. But I've never mentored other breeders. We often speak with other breeders about different questions, but I've never taught anyone how to breed.
What's the best breeding tip or advice you've received from another breeder?
I try to do everything myself in my breeding program and seldom ask for advice.
What are the biggest strength AND weakness of the Savannah breed?
Savannah cats are a unique breed I have many cats of different breeds: British shorthair, Orientals, Chausie, Abyssinians, and stray cats I can say that Savannahs are unique and unforgettable They are intellectually developed, beautiful, intelligent, and playful; even adult cats behave like kittens Savannahs are devotees and like to be at the center of attention 24/7 Once you get a Savannah cat, you will wish to have more and more Savannahs until you have a house full of these beautiful creatures Although their weakness comes from their high intellect, they want to be with humans all day. Therefore, Savannahs aren't suitable for people who spend a lot of time at work or who love to travel. They are firmly attached to their human and would be bored without that interaction. Another problem is the destructive force of Savannahs. They can damage everything in your house, from floor to ceiling, and have destroyed my house too--doors, floor, windows, ceiling, and furniture. So by buying a Savannah cat, people should be ready that their habitual life will change forever.
What should new breeders know they may not have considered that you've learned from breeding?
I would like to wish new breeders not to lose heart at the first difficulties. Breeding is a challenging and complicated process, and not everything can go with ease.
Do you feed your Savannahs and kittens a raw diet, and do you recommend raw feeding to new owners? Why/Why not?
I have both a raw diet and a diet with prepared food For the servals, caracals, and F1-F2 Savannahs, it's raw meat diet The foundation stone of my raw diet is one day chicken, quail, and rabbit Also, we feed cats raw chicken, sometimes fish, vegetables, and fresh grass All meat must be with bones For the lover generation cats, F5-F6 savannahs, I usually use wet and soft cat food As for the kittens, we feed them raw meat at the ages of 1 5 - 2 months We are starting with finely chopped quail with bones Next, it's one-day-old chickens and chopped rabbits
Do you have a favorite(s) Savannah Cat website or cattery website that stands out you wish to acknowledge?
There are a lot of great breeders around the world, and everyone can learn something new But I can't highlight one or more websites
Do you or have you bred any other type of cat or animal besides Savannahs? If yes, please elaborate on that.
Besides Savannah cats, my next favorite cats are Servals and Caracals I don't breed Servals, but I have three boys with very different personalities
The other cats we breed are Caracals I love them also, but they are very complicated cats. Our firstborn kitten was a Caracal baby girl we named "Aurora." "Eva" and "Jamon" are the parents of all our Caracal kittens.
What concerns do you have regarding the future of the Savannah breed?
Today some breeders don't monitor the quality of their sires and kittens In addition, such backdoor breeders significantly lower prices for kittens, thus depreciating the breed Another problem is that some breeders do not strive for purebreds and mix Savannahs or Servals with other breeds Also, breeders often hide with whom they knit their Savannahs or Servals, passing off kittens as purebreds It's a common problem of post-soviet country breeders
What is your favorite(s) generation to breed and why? What generations do you produce?
My favorite Savannah cat generations to produce are F1 and F2 Savannahs. They are the most distinguished and beautiful cats. However, it's hard to produce F1 Savannahs. Besides F1 and F2 Savannahs, I also produce F5-F6 Savannahs, but not often. Our cattery focuses on breeding F1 and F2 Savannahs.
Do you attend cat shows, and if yes, what's your highest achievement?
No, I don't attend cat shows One of the main reasons for not participating in cat shows is that I don't want to stress my cats and kittens A large number of people and unfamiliar surroundings can cause harm to them And another reason is that we don't have big shows to present Savannah cats in Ukraine Here, we only have three Savannah cat breeders The Ukrainian Savannah breed is still very unknown and undeveloped
What else would you like the Savannah world to know about you and your cattery?
Toxic Plants Can Cause Illness and Death to Your Cat
Are you disappointed by the endless list of feline-toxic plants? According to the American Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals (ASPCA) website, the list includes many of your popular greenhouse favorites As a house plant and gardening enthusiast, one of the hardest things was to part with some of my favorite plants when we added cats to our family.
I've researched houseplants for the last few years and have found many non-toxic plants that are hardy and easy to grow. You needn't give up your green thumb because you choose to own cats! While there are more toxic plants than non-toxic ones, knowing the difference can save your cat's life.
House plants clean, filter, and humidify the inside air and lend a peaceful beauty to any decor I went on a mission to learn which house plants wouldn't harm our cats if they ingested them--and they will! Trust me when I say the evidence is real!
Toxic
plants, if
ingested, can
cause abnormal behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, and even death.
Lillies
Before I proceed, let me warn you about the deadliest plant of all to felines--the Lilly! Lillies come in wide varieties, both indoors and outside If your cat exhibits signs of sudden illness and you can confirm they've been in contact with lilies of any kind, please proceed to the nearest veterinary emergency facility If you have any questions, contact the APCC 24-hour emergency poison hotline at 1-888-4264435
Symptoms: Sudden onset of vomiting, signs of depression, diarrhea, dehydration, and lack of appetite (anorexia) If left untreated, death can occur within four to seven days of ingestion and sooner if the cat consumes more of the plant).
There are over 90 different species of lilies. If in question whether a plant is indeed a Lilly, make it unavailable to the cat.
The Areca Palm (Golden Butterfly Palm, Cane Palm, Golden Feather Palm, Yellow Palm)
My first and favorite recommendation is the "Areca Palm." According to ASPCA, many palm trees are toxic to domestic animals, but the "Areca Palm" is safe if consumed by cats and dogs.
With Areca Palms, the perks are endless Each stem boasts dark, lush, green leaf fronds that bring a tropical look and feel to your home or patio They are ideal for indoor growth or zones 9 to 11 outside (areas that stay warm and humid year-round)
Areca Palms thrive in four to five hours of daily total to partial sunlight and reach maturity six to seven feet tall. They're fast-growing, and my cats are less curious about the larger floor plants than the smaller ones they can knock over for fun!
Blue Echeveria: The Amazing Succulent
The blue echeveria is known as Maroon Chenille, Painted Lady, Copper Rose, Wax Rosette, Plush Plant, Hen, and Chicks
Many are familiar with succulents from our grandparents' strawberry pots--the everso-common "hen and chicks " But did you know that hundreds of varieties in all colors and shapes encompass several plant families, including cacti and orchids?
While succulents are your safest and most varietal non-toxic plant, not all are catsafe Be sure the plant you buy has a tag with a name, and check the ASPCA website for cross-reference
I think succulents are some of the most beautiful, colorful, hardy, and easiest plants to grow They require very little maintenance and can be grown both indoors and out When we got our Savannah cats, I quickly learned that succulents are one house plant my cats rarely bother because they are prickly and dense--and they're pretty affordable too!
I've had great success buying my plants on both Amazon and Etsy Etsy is my favorite for finding unique species. I've bought succulent variety boxes from Amazon and prickly pear cactus paddles on Etsy.
Toxic succulents include:
Jade and Aloe Vera plants
Pencil Cactus
Devil's Backbone
Snake Plant/Mother-in-Law's Tongue
F2 Ronin owned by Keri Libbe
The Reliable African Violet
African violets are perennial and come in (10) pink, purple, and white varieties While not a true "violet," they get their common name, "African violet," from their superficial resemblance to true violets Colorful violets can liven up your décor, especially as the colder weather approaches. Violets can also be moved outdoors in certain climates.
My violet varieties live together in a heavy planter box on my window sill in the cold months. I can then quickly relocate it to the patio from late spring to mid-fall, where they can regenerate and get a break from the occasional cat snack!
Common Toxic Plants to Avoid With Cats and Viable Substitutions
Potted plants are popular for gifts and holiday decorations, and cats can’t avoid the temptation to investigate anything new
Fortunately, several festive, colorful substitutions aren’t poisonous.
Some good choices include:
Christmas and other cacti varieties
African violets
Orchids
Bromeliads
Roses
Boston fern
Peperomia
Prayer plant
Spider plant
Swedish ivy
Polka dot plant
Common toxic potted plants to avoid include:
Holly Azalea
Yew
Boxwood Amaryllis
Peace lily
Mistletoe
Chrysanthemum
Gardenia
Poinsettia, the most popular holiday plant of all
In memory of F1 Falcon, owned by Peri Hughes
Friends of SAVANNAHGANS®
What happens when you become a Friend of SAVANNAHGANS®?
When you support our efforts with just $1 per month, you’re also helping the Savannah Cat Rescue and Care Fund Organizations In addition, you’ll be the first to hear about upcoming contests, content and photo requests, live events, new products, and be among the first to review the latest issue before it goes out to the community
Be the first to receive announcements via email about upcoming events, contests, issues, content requests, and more. Help SAVANNAHGANS® do more for our community and readers! Just $1 per month/$12 per year can go a long way!
SAVANNAH CAT RESCUE
Founded in 2003, Savannah Cat Rescue (SVR) is a volunteer service (not brick and mortar) by Savannah breeders: Kristine Alessio and Brigitte Cowell Moyne with a core group of volunteers across the United States and Canada. The mission of SVR is to rescue Savannah Cats and provide education to the public about the Savannah Cat Breed.
SVR cats come from various places, primarily breeders who've sold kittens to owners who are unprepared or unable to care for a Savannah. The second, the breeder didn't assume responsibility when new owners needed help or decided to return the cat. A good breeder will always take back a cat they've bred, regardless of age or circumstances. Luckily, most Savannah breeders fall into this "good" category!
When an owner first contacts SVR, the owner is given information/tips to help them work any problems they may be experiencing with their Savannah. If the owner is unable or unwilling to resolve through these recommendations, SVR can take possession of the cat with owner's agreement (a legal surrender form).
SVR identifies qualified foster homes and places rescued cats for evaluation until placed into a permanent home. SVR will work with foster homes.
If necessary, to rehabilitate cats, have them vetted (vaccinated and spayed/neutered), and evaluate any special needs or requirements. SVR gives first preference to foster homes if their home is a good fit.
Adoption fees for each Rescue Savannah are usually $200, and donations also fund SCR.
Although the Savannah breed is young, it's growing fast, and the numbers of Savannah cats and catteries producing Savannahs are increasing. SVR expects to see more Savannah cats in rescue in the future, but this is NOT a reflection of a breed problem, merely a fact of feline life.
We showcase available rescued Savannah cats on the SVR Facebook page or https://groups.io/g/SavannahCatRescue. SVR never knows when a cat will become available in any location. Rescue Savannahs are typically adult cats of varying generations, ages, and genders and are rarely kittens. All Savannahs available for adoption through SVR will be spayed or neutered and come from a foster or the current owner's home
Check the Hybrid Law site to ensure Savannahs are legal where you live before inquiring about an available Savannah. SVR will NOT adopt to anyone living in an illegal area! If in doubt about your community's legality, homeowners association, city, county, state, or province, contact your local Animal Control officer. Always make sure you're in legal compliance with the number of pets you may own. We do require landlord permission and proof to own a cat if you rent or lease your home.
Shared with permission from SVR. Please consider donating to the SVR here.
Savannah Cat Care Fund
Savannah Cat Care Fund (SVCCF) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to provide financial assistance throughout the United States to Savannah pet cat owners who cannot afford emergency care for their Savannah cat. SVCCF financial assistance applies to all illnesses and injuries requiring immediate emergency or urgent care.
The fund started because we were disheartened by the Savannah cats euthanized or surrendered when the owner(s) couldn't pay veterinary bills. This fund has been years in the making, and as our breed grows, so do its needs.
The Savannah Cat Rescue team felt a need to have an organization to help pet Savannahs BEFORE being surrendered or euthanized. A group evolved, and the idea came to fruition with many people's help. The SVCCF works with Savannah Cat Rescue to save our precious Savannahs. The SVCCF works with the community and anyone in need of emergency funds to save or help their Savannah cat.
The goals of the Savannah Cat Care Fund are:
To generate financial support for the organization's initiatives, through outreach and fundraising, with a primary focus on providing financial assistance to Savannah pet cat owners experiencing financial hardship due to unanticipated emergency/urgent cat care expenses.
To work with Savannah Rescue and help/save Savannah cats BEFORE they're surrendered or euthanized due to an owner's inability to provide emergency veterinary care.
To work with veterinarians on accepting pet insurance and allowing owners to pay only deductibles and copays.
To provide education and resources to Savannah owners as needed.
We define a Savannah cat as (a) a Savannah with TICA registration; or, (b) a Savannah rescued from SV Rescue with proof of such; or (c) a cat with no registration papers but deemed a Savannah by the SVCCF Board of Directors or their appointees; or, (d) a Savannah recognized and confirmed as such by the cat's breeder.
Written with permission by the SVCCF. Please consider donating to the SVCCF here.
Wepermit: toauthorize any emergency work or pet medical care deemed necessary topreventfurtherdamage or delayed care. We will be responsible for full paymentofanyrepairs or treatments.
WHAT'S YOUR PLAN FOR YOUR CAT IN A WEATHER-RELATED EMERGENCY?
By Julie Laney of Rainier Savannahs
A preparedness plan is essential for your pet's well-being in a storm or fire
According to data released by the ASPCA, almost one in four Americans has had to evacuate their home due to a natural disaster or other emergencies, forcing many of those people to leave at least one pet behind. Forty percent were gone for at least four days, with close to ten percent gone for eight days on average Many left food and water behind, but that doesn't do much when faced with rising waters, encroaching wildfires, or destructive winds that can tear a roof from a building
You could be next! The United States is becoming a hot spot for more, not fewer, climate-related disasters: hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, floods, and fires. Disasters are emergencies, making it very hard to think things through in real-time For this reason, you must include your animals in your preparedness plan
Fortunately, it's easier to protect your cat in a disaster than it used to be There is a new law in place that says for states, cities, and counties to receive federal funding for their disaster relief plans, those plans must "account for the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals before, during, and following a major disaster or emergency." The PETS Act: For municipalities to receive federal funding for their disaster relief plans, emergency shelters must be pet-friendly and other steps to protect companion animals during weather-related disasters or earthquakes More than 30 states have signed on, so to speak, to incorporating pets' needs into their disaster plans
F3 "Trigger" of Savannarama Kittens
If the weather forces you to evacuate, do you know your options for bringing your cat with you?
The PETS Act was enacted following Hurricane Katrina
An estimated 100,000 cats and other pets separated from their families during and after the storm--and approximately 70,000 died Who can't remember the heartbreaking images of pets and people stranded on rooftops and pets alone in the trees, or the stories of people who brought their pets to evacuation buses only to learn their animals had to be left behind?
But even with the law, you should familiarize yourself, know your community options, and take common sense precautions Here are some tips
Find out from your municipality or local Red Cross chapter if there will be emergency pet-friendly housing shelters or other facilities that will allow companion animals in the event of a disaster. If not, see what hotels or motels allow pets. Hotels are not required to take pets in a disaster.
Create a portable emergency kit that includes your pet's identification and medical records, food, water, bowls, and any medication he may take Please keep it in a closet or somewhere you can grab it quickly
If you must leave, take your cat's favorite blanket or another toy to bring them comfort amid the anxiety
