SAVANNAHGANS® - THE International Savannah Cat Magazine SU2023

Your onestop destination for all things "Savannah"

Summer 2020 Featuring: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy "Big Cat" Myth Buster Breeder Interview A Memorial Tribute A Survival Story Product Review DIY Cat House and More!

FROM THE OWNER/EDITOR'S DESK by: Debra Roberts

Welcome to this second edition of

SAVANNAHGANS® THE International Savannah Cat Magazine The support and enthusiasm from the Savannah Cat community continue as we move forward! Our list of knowledgeable, highly experienced contributors is growing as they excitedly share their wisdom with our readers. I'm excited to expand this circle of Savannah enthusiasts, breeders, and owners and bring you even more great content worldwide!

My husband Jamison and I own four Savannahs. We've run the gamut of experiences, including a breeder scam, a fatal disease (FIP), and the discovery of a cure for it. I'm thankful to be acquainted with many breeders and owners who've worked with me over the past three years, and I look forward to meeting many more as we create more great content!

My number one goal is to bring you informative and entertaining content from Savannah enthusiasts and experts in a fun and whimsical publication filled with heart-warming stories. My vision is to meld amazing stories with education so current and future owners can search our site for anything they want to know about our wonderful breed.

Savannahgans® welcomes ALL cat lovers, regardless of breed, to participate in the action! Whether searching for a breeder, safety tips, health advice, or commissioned art and novelties, you'll find it all in each quarterly issue and on our website at www.savannahgans.com--and it's all FREE! We rely on your support and feedback, and if you shop through our various links and affiliates, Savannahgans® can donate money to the Savannah Care and Rescue Funds with proceeds.

I've been working on our social media platforms to share our musings further and plan to amp up the content as our following increases.

There's something for everyone, so be sure to visit our website first and foremost and follow our Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest pages.

Owner, Editor, Writer, Designer, Marketing, and Social Media:

Debra Roberts, Savannah owner and blogger

Illustrator, Graphic Designer and Art Director:

Jacqueline Luttrelle, Savannah owner and artist

Featured Writers and Contributors:

Debra Roberts, Savannah owner, R.N., and writer Suzette Moore-Carter, Savannah owner Laura Dodge Root, Savannah owner Pam Hatch, Savannah owner Jannel Rockwell, Savannah breeder Brigitte Moyne, Savannah breeder Steve Dale, Pet Behaviorist and radio talk-show host Dr. David Bostwick, DVM Keri Libbe, Savannah owner Deborah Frierson, Savannah owner

Featured Vendor:

Peri Hughes, Savannah owner and photographer

Featured Artist:

Joyce Pierce, Former Savannah breeder and jewelry designer

Featured Breeder:

Heather Jackson, Savannah breeder

On the Cover:

In memory of F2 "Falcon," owned by Peri Hughes

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Debra Roberts' F3 "Luna" from Libby Haver ~ Damara Exotics Cats

WHAT'S IN THE SUMMER 2020 EDITION? Featured Artist

7-8

Health and Safety

14 - 22

Myth Buster

23 - 24

Breeder Spotlight

25 - 31

In Memoriam

33 - 35

What the "F"

36

Survival Story

38 - 40

Product Review

41 - 42

DIY Cat House

43 - 46

Rescue & Care Funds

47 - 48

Ask Auntie Vannah

51 - 52

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CHECK OUT THE STUNNING PIECES AT AT WWW.FAZIOSCATJEWELRY.COM Email Address: joyce@faziosanimaljewelry.com

Contact number: 928-243-4901

Featured Artist Joyce Pierce

I've always owned and loved animals of many types, From training and hunting with dogs to horse events with the whole family and even raising salamanders (so spoiled, they'd only eat from our hands) when the kids were little. As the kids grew and my husband started working on the road, I realized my childhood dream of showing cats.

I started the cat show adventure with Savannahs; they'll always have a special place in my heart. Early into the long road of showing cats, I met Kay Fazio and fell in love with her jewelry. We even had some adventures attending shows together.

Kay developed health issues many years later and decided to sell her animal jewelry business. I talked to her almost daily about her struggles and desire to ensure her jewelry would remain available to her long-time fans and new cat lovers.

My husband and I decided to pick up and carry on with her unique pendants and other jewelry. It's been a learning process, but we can now reproduce everything in our home and have been able to add new pieces as well. In addition to Savannah Cat jewelry, we have other breeds of cats, dogs, and wild animals, all available in sterling silver and 14kt gold.

Use promo code "Sv Lover" for 20% off each item you order!

Featured on the next page, are just a few of our available pieces of Savannah and Serval jewelry. Visit our website and contact me with any questions. You can read more about us and our awesome reviews here!

Do you have a talent you'd like to feature for a future edition? Pitch us your idea here!

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LIFE IS UNCERTAIN. GET A SAVANNAH CAT. Page 9

1. You'll never be bored on a Friday night...or Saturday, or Sunday...

2. You'll never dine alone.

3. You'll never sleep alone. Or sleep period.

4. You'll never oversleep again.

5. Their paws are always clean.

6. They help consume less toilet paper by depleting your supply.

7. They blend in with any decor.

8. They help take down the holiday decorations, especially the tree.

9. They tend to your plants while you're gone...and while you're home.

10. They get rid of that ugly heirloom you kept out of guilt.

11. You can cancel the babysitter.

12. They improve your recycling habits.

13. They can be your screen saver.

14. They'll keep your guests entertained.

"Savandalism is a Phase They Never Outgrow"!

--quote by Dana Frazelle, owner of melanistic rescue Savannah "Shad"

Do you have another reason to add a Savannah cat to your life? Pitch it to us and we'll add it to the list!

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Peri Hughes F1 "Fubuki" keeping dinner warm--or is it the other way around?

Brigitte Moyne's F5 SBT "Zari" just hanging around.

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Peri Hughes' F7 "Figel" checking out his greatest accomplishment.

Debra Roberts' F3 "Luna" at a hotel in Chicago doing her chameleon impression.

Sarah Johnson's F2 "Zuri" on Taco Tuesday.

Do you have a Savandalism photo you'd like to share for a future edition? Contact us here!

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The most simple tasks become complex when living with a Savannah.

All I wanted was a cup of coffee. by: Deborah Frierson, Savannah Owner

HOW TO MAKE COFFEE USING A FRENCH PRESS Put water in measuring cup to heat; Open microwave to heat water; Pull SV out of the microwave; Remove the Savannah’s paw from the water; change the water; Open the microwave to heat the water; Remove the Savannah from the microwave; Put the coffee grounds in the French press; Remove the Savannah’s head stuck in the French press; Pour the hot water over the grounds; Pull the Savannah from the microwave; Put the cream in a cup to heat; Remove the Savannah’s head from the coffee cup and wipe up the spilled cream; Repeat the cream, and heat in the microwave; Pull the Savannah from the microwave; Pour coffee into the cup using the other arm to fend off the Savannah; Run from the kitchen and lock yourself in the office to enjoy the coffee in solitude; Insert ear plugs to lessent he noise from the screeching Savannah

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Discu ssion (HCM ) in on Heart C Meng Dise ase es o ats with f Ba sepa Dr. Chri ws a s n d Dale Stev e PAG E1 5

Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) A Tribute to Barrington PAGES 16-18

Non-t Plant oxic House Recom menda Pag tion es 2 1-22

Heart Disease in Cats with Dr. David Bostwick PAGE 19-20

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Discussion on Heart Disease (HCM) in Cats with Dr. Chris Menges of Basepaws, Dr. Liz Bales, and Steve Dale (used and edited with permission) by: Steve Dale, Certified Animal Behaviorist

Steve Dale is a certified animal behavior specialist who has been a trusted voice in pet health for over 20 years. You've likely heard him on the radio, read him in print and online, and seen him speaking at events worldwide. His contributions to advancing pet wellness have earned him many awards and recognition around the globe.

In this highly informative video, Dr. Liz Bales and Steve Dale question Dr. Menges about feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart disease in cats. What the condition is, the early signs of HCM, and what you can do preventively are explained. Dr. Bales talks about her own experience with HCM with her cat. Dr Menges explains what we know about the genetics of HCM. A general practicing veterinarian can't offer a potential early warning without hearing a cat's heart to determine if there's a murmur. However, a murmur doesn't always equate with heart disease. So, what's the next step? We talk about this.

Dr. Menges and Dr. Bales discuss how HCM is diagnosed, symptoms, treatment, costs, and prognosis. They also discuss genetic testing that can give the owner a heads-up if their cat is predisposed to HCM and other genetic diseases in the cat's lifetime. Cats with HCM often live out average lifespans, even asymptomatic, and ultimately die of kidney disease or cancer.

The Ricky Fund, through the Winn Feline Foundation, raises money to fund HCM treatment and research. Click here to donate.

Click here for a list of studies funded by the Winn Feline Foundation for HCM. **There is no individual genetic test specific to the Savannah Breed. This is discussed in the video**

You can contact Steve for help with your cat by calling: 866-554-PETS (7387).

You can also email your questions to Steve. Please include your name and a number where he can reach you.

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A TRIBUTE TO BARRINGTON His Rescue and Fight with HCM Barrington 2013 - 2019 Written by: Laura Root with Pam Hatch, Barrington's owner and Jannell Rockwell, Barrington's breeder.

I've had some experience with Savannah cats.

When my breeder friend, Jannel, contacted me about one of her previous F2 kittens she spotted on a rescue page, I was thrilled to take him in.

Jannel received him back to her cattery in southern Utah.

Unbeknownst to her, both knees had patellar luxation, a congenital or traumatic condition where the kneecap becomes dislocated, causing lameness and inability to jump. Sadly, he first endured two surgeries to repair his knees, which is believed to result from an injury.

The surgeon corrected each knee separately, and after his first surgery, caging was necessary for six weeks for his safety and healing. The second operation was a few weeks later, so we met in Northern Utah to take him home postprocedure. I'll never forget the shock of seeing Barrington for the first time. He was huge.

Barrington was 2 ½ years old when I brought him home to Montana.

He stayed in a cage in my bedroom while healing from the second operation. I lay on the floor and slept with him because he was in so much pain.

Not long after Barrington got out of "knee jail," he got wild hair and scared the dickens out of me when he took a running leap from my bed, launching himself 15 feet as he ran off, testing his new knees!

At his healthiest, Barrington was 32 lbs. He was ½" taller than the Guinness World Record title holder, Arturius, owned by Will Powers. Being scared of strangers, I couldn't put him through the fuss of measuring to certify his height —but, wow, he was big!

Barrington was terrified of the vet, yet his vet loved him to pieces. He wouldn't have anything to do with anyone but me, and we were soulmates. At a regular dental check and cleaning, something made our vet, Katie, do an ultrasound.

That's when she discovered his thickened heart wall--HCM.

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Katie was terrified to drain the fluid around his heart that HCM produces.

She sent us to Dr. David Bostwick in Missoula, three hours away, who specializes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Barrington was on four medications. A friend in California, Brigitte Moyne, sent me empty gel capsules to place the cut-up drugs into so I could administer them to him more easily.

I became an expert at catching him asleep, putting pressure on the corners of his mouth, and dropping those pills down his throat. Most times, he didn't even wake up. He was a gentle soul; he'd let me do this to him. But for anyone else, this 32-pound Savannah would run and hide!

After the first fluid draining, it was a few months before he had to go back to the vet. I could tell things were progressing because he'd have trouble breathing. Near the end, the visits were about every two weeks. And you know-you know when the time has come.

He always slept on my bed, and the last night, his bladder let go. I found a vet to come to the house quickly and help him cross the bridge. He was only five years old.

Dr. David Bostwick, who treated Barrington, has been kind enough to provide education and insight regarding HCM on the page following Barrington's special video tribute.

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Video by: Jannel Rockwell of Snow Canyon Savannahs, Barrington's Breeder Used with permission from Jannel Rockwell and Pam Hatch, Barrington's owner.

Barrington 2013 - 2019 Music Credit: "Smile" by Nat King Cole

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Dr. David Bostwick DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM) Veterinary Specialist Missoula Veterinary Specialty Clinic Missoula Montana

1. How does a cat become diagnosed with HCM? Is it thought to have a genetic component? Or could some diagnoses be due to a virus, such as humans can acquire?

The diagnosis is made through echocardiography, which measures the thickness of the left ventricular walls (typically at the time of full relaxation). Cats with HCM have thickening of one (asymmetric) or both (symmetric) walls. There may or may not be enlargement of the left atrium, depending on whether the thickening is causing impaired flow through the ventricle into the aorta.

Yes, it's genetic to some degree. Most purebred cats are known to have an increased incidence, and it's proven in Maine Coon cats, where there's a genetic test available (WSU) to look for cats with both genes or just one positive gene. That's the only breed where genetic testing is functional, as it's the only cat breed where the congenital disability is explicitly elucidated.

It's also generally a male-oriented disease, suggesting a genetic component (we see females, but less frequently).

Although genetic and, therefore, congenital, the cats aren't born with thickened ventricles. Thickening happens over time and can occur by two years of age or sometimes not until 10-12 years, meaning that screening cats with echo at a young age doesn't guarantee they won't develop the disease.

2. What are the most obvious symptoms to watch for in HCM? Unfortunately, this disease has no premonitory symptoms until the cat goes into congestive heart failure "CHF" ( shortness of breath) or throws a blood clot down the aorta. Generally, clots plug up one or both back legs and occasionally the right front leg but rarely go down the left front leg due to the left subclavian artery's acute angle coming off the aorta. Many cats initially limp on one leg, and people assume it's a "sprain"--until the big one hits.

Cats don't cough in CHF; they develop acute (pulmonary edema) or progressive (pleural effusion) shortness of breath.

Murmurs and gallop rhythms are the most common "symptoms" a vet hears. Unfortunately, many cats with this disease, even severe, don't have abnormalities when listening to the heart. Unlike dogs, any cat with a murmur should have a complete evaluation to determine its cause and significance.

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3. What type of treatment is available to cats diagnosed with HCM? Examples of medications and medical intervention? In other words, how can such a grim diagnosis best be managed?

Not all cats with HCM need treatment at the time of diagnosis. No drug can prevent Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in cats with HCM, nor can any drug prolong survival after CHF, except diuretics. The two most common medications in asymptomatic cats are "diltiazem" and "atenolol." Which drug depends on which side of the country the vet studied. Most west coasters use atenolol, while east coasters use diltiazem. Both slow the heart rate and relax the thickened musculature to allow blood to flow through better. Again, neither of these drugs has been proven to help with the disease statistically.

After heart failure, vets use many drugs, depending on the type of CHF. Diuretics are the mainstay, but vasodilators are used in most cases. Again, these don't prolong survival compared to diuretics alone.

The main drugs that can help are anticoagulants, which prevent clots from developing or recurring in asymptomatic cats IF the left atrium is enlarged and at risk of throwing a clot. "Aspirin" is often used in low doses, but "Plavix" is considered the drug of choice for prevention due to an extensive study on aortic embolization (FATCAT study). If a clot exists, "warfarin" can be used, as it is in humans.

Euthanization occurs with many cats with clots due to the misconception that they won't recover, which isn't always true, as we can get many cats over the acute clot crisis. During a clotting event, clot lysers such as "streptokinase" and "TPA" haven't increased recovery rates. However, recurrence is always a big concern.

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Peri Hughes' F2 Falcon

Safety Brief: Cat-Safe Houseplant Review: The Amazing Succulent by: Debra Roberts

Blue Echeveria Commonly known as Maroon Chenille, Painted Lady, Copper Rose, Wax Rosette, Plush Plant, Hen, and Chicks Do you love plants but are disappointed by the endless list of feline-toxic plants, especially some of the most common ones? According to the American Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals (ASPCA) website, the list includes many familiar and favored greenhouse treasures.

I've been researching and reviewing houseplants for the last few years and have found many hardy and easy-to-grow options that are both non-toxic to your cat and aesthetically pleasing to you.

Many of us are familiar with the variety from our grandparents' strawberry pots and the ever-socommon "hen and chicks" variety. But did you know that hundreds of types in all colors and shapes encompass several plant families, including cacti and orchids? This quarter's plant review and recommendation are the "succulent."

However, NOT ALL plants in the succulent family are non-toxic, so please be sure the plant you buy has a tag I've had great success buying my plants on both with a name and check the ASPCA website. For Amazon and Etsy--Etsy is my favorite for unique example, aloe and jade are succulents but ARE also species. I've bought succulent variety boxes from toxic!

Amazon and prickly pear cactus paddles from an Etsy seller in Texas!

When we got our Savannahs, I quickly learned that succulents are one houseplant my cats rarely will bother with- and they're pretty affordable, too.

Succulents are some of the most beautiful, colorful, hardy, and easiest plants to grow. They require very little maintenance and can be grown indoors and out.

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Where to Buy Succulents: Amazon

Etsy

MYTH BUSTERS 2020 SERIES: "I WANT A BIG CAT"

SO YOU THINK YOU WANT A BIG CAT? By: Laura Root, Savannah owner

ADVENTURES WITH A BIG CAT

Soon, I was reporting his almost exponential growth to his breeder.

After being owned by Abyssinians (frequently described as "cat-sized mountain lions) for almost 45 years, I discovered Savannahs or "Catsized Cheetahs".

In one month, he'd gone from 6.2# to 13.4#. I included a glucosamine supplement in his raw diet (all our cats get this in their food) to ensure healthy joints as he grows. Ascher hit 20.4# on February 23, 2018, and seemed impossibly long for a "normal" cat. I would soon learn he was as far from a "normal" cat!

Once I learned "what the F" word meant and considering my bank account, I searched for a nearby reputable breeder, deciding upon an F2 for my entry into the Savannah World. And yes, I was hoping for a big boy!

Harness training was a hoot. He loved exploring the backyard on his leash. He seemed uncomfortable in the front yard or walking off the property, so we kept him within the backyard block walls. To enhance his outdoor experience, we built a "catio" next to the house, with access through a dog door. Fortunately, we installed an XL dog door in the hole the previous owners made for their dog because Ascher wouldn't have fit otherwise!

Ascher came into our lives on September 29, 2017, born "Maverick" on July 8, from Snow Canyon's "Top Gun" litter.

At 13 weeks, he already weighed 6.2#.

We had no idea what to expect in terms of growth. I kept a weekly, then monthly record of his growth, as I felt it essential to stay on top of any concerns, such as weight loss and what it might mean for his health. We also purchased pet insurance for this boy, right away.

Long and lanky, Ascher already had a little "primordial pouch" when he arrived. He loved exercising on his "Ferris Wheel" when he was smaller.

Once he got longer, he preferred to have "Arm Day" on his wheel – standing to the side, and running the thing with his front legs – which he does to this day!

We found Ascher in the usual cat places, such as on the kitchen cabinets, "resting" while spying on his humans, or the top of a cat tree. We built one early on, with a 12" diameter tube cubby he'd use until he outgrew it! When he started to dispense ice cubes from the refrigerator door, I began planning more cat trees and shelves to occupy his time.

When younger, Ascher shied away from visiting strangers.

Since he turned two (a year ago), he's become almost gregarious, walking up to people, sniffing their legs and shoes, and performing one of his favorite stunts--attacking feet!

Getting Ascher to the vet was challenging once he reached 20#. The last time I managed to get him into a "regular" cat carrier, his hind feet caught my leg with just-clipped claws, and a year and a half later, I still have a scar! The purchase of a cat stroller was imminent.

Ascher achieved 30# in February 2019, and it's been nearly impossible for me to pick him up to weigh since then. He was thick, but I could tell his weight wasn't an issue as he grew in length and height. He wasn't obese and still had a "waist," although his pouch was substantial and seemed to make his legs look short. I would frequently look at him and think, "Oh my gosh! He's gotten longer/taller!"

After recognizing this phenomenon several times, I started paying attention to his eating habits. Sure enough, whenever he'd finish off his food, then move on to other cats' food dishes (they were ALL his dishes, don't you know?), I'd notice this spurt a week or so later.

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For exercise, Ascher and his F6 friend, Tikvah (above) love playing with wand toys – a mouse, bird, wiggly worm, and anything with catnip from their monthly cat box subscription.

Sometimes, Ascher sits back and watches, waiting for the opportune moment to pounce, a "hit and run." More recently, Ascher has gotten much more active in his play. Chasing the wand toy all over, he will come and sit next to me on the bed and meow (whine, really!) to get out the wand. This boy won't stop pestering until he's had a chance to catch his prey multiple times. He didn't do much running and playing until recently because he's finally comfortable with his size at three years old. Like gangly teenagers, he was very clumsy until the last few months.

Ascher's other feline friend is our 14-year-old Abyssinian, Yedeed ("friend" in Hebrew). Yeddy has absolutely no interest in these young whipper snappers and would prefer to sleep all day and night without interruption. However, that's not in the cards, per Ascher. Ascher has determined he's Yeddy's groomer and will vigorously lay on top of Yeddy (all 10 pounds of him), holding him down with one paw and cleaning Yeddy's face, head, and neck. After a few minutes, Yeddy is done and wriggles out from Ascher's grasp, escaping for a more relaxing location.

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Ascher's personality is so different than I've ever experienced with other cats.

Ascher's definitely the Alpha. He's also compassionate. Friends had a Savannah, who also lived in the Phoenix area, and we communicated with them regularly. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with HCM, and while he had excellent care, he didn't survive. I cried when I heard the news, and immediately, Ascher came and laid across my legs in a very comforting move. He's done this frequently if I'm upset.

Another amusing thing he does is yell at me if I've spent too much time working in the garage. When I enter, he'll follow me, meowing demandingly, and jump onto the bed, looking at me expectantly. He continues until I sit on the bed and can lay across my legs (he's too big to be a "lap cat"). Then he quiets down and naps…while my legs fall asleep!

When Ascher wants your attention for food or play, he rises and puts his front paws in the middle of my back (I'm only 5'2", but he touches the height of my bra strap), kneading while I'm brushing my teeth. He even pushes me off of the toilet so he can use it himself! Yes, he uses the toilet! The toilet paper resides inside a cabinet above the toilet--also behind a door!

If you want a Savannah, large or small, be prepared for an incredible experience. They can be exasperating but so loving.

They are like three-year-olds who can't talk and will never "grow up" – but it'll be the most rewarding experience of your life!

Breeder Spotlight

An interview with NITROKATZ Heather Jackson

Savannahs, Breeding, Ownership Tips, and the Future With Heather Jackson of Nitrokatz What inspired you to start breeding Savannahs My Savannah obsession began in 2013. I've had cats most of my life. We had a very special Bengal as a pet for many years and lost him to renal failure. We wanted another "special" cat but knew another Bengal could never be the same. And at that time, Savannah's were illegal in our state. As soon as we learned Savannahs became legal here, we set out to find our first Savannah, a later-generation boy. We also got his sister for the company, knowing our elderly DSH would NOT appreciate their company. (And we were right.) Not long after we got them, we also wanted an early-generation Savannah. We found our perfect F2 boy and brought him home.

After falling in love with this magnificent creature, we realized there were significant variations in Savannah's quality from different breeders. We started thinking about becoming breeders to share these beautiful cats with others and focus on producing the best Savannahs. We researched the best breeders and decided what generations we were interested in producing. Then we found our perfect stud and got our first queen. My cattery is a VERY small in-home, hobby cattery (we can count our current breeding cats on the one hand), and we focus on quality - not quantity. We're fortunate to have cats from some of the country's best breeders and worldwide. And I have many other breeders who've helped us get this far. I enjoy helping the Savannah community and giving back where I can. And although I don't get the opportunity to do it enough, I enjoy participating in TICA shows and sharing our magnificent breed with the public.

How'd you come up with the name "NitroKatz"?

Naming a cattery was such a hard decision. I went through many and didn't like any for various reasons. Once my founding stud was home, and I decided on a name for him, the cattery name was easy. People who know how we came up with our cattery name then ask how we came up with his name! That boy's name is Nitro; hence "NitroKatz Savannahs" was born.

How'd you come up with the name "Nitro"?

Nitro

"Nitro" is named for the supercharged purr I heard the first time I met him. It sounded like a blower car running on Nitro-methane, hence his name. And the fact that he goes 200 mph when playing!

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What's the best part about breeding?

The best part of breeding, by far, is seeing the happiness our kitties bring their new families! It's especially fun when it's their first Savannah (and you know it won't be their last)!

What's the worst/hardest part about breeding?

The toughest part about breeding is dealing with kitten loss, ranging from an entire unborn litter, a newborn kitten with its wings, or one living with a new family.

Do you recommend people try to breed Savannahs? Why/Why not?

First, I ask WHY they want to breed Savannahs. Unless their answer is "for the betterment of the breed," AND they can explain what they mean, I wouldn't encourage them to start breeding. When people say they "want to breed Savannahs," I always tell them not to put any money into it they can't afford to lose. There are NO guarantees in breeding any animal, but breeding Savannahs is even more complicated than other animals.

What's the best tip or advice you've received from another breeder?

Start your cattery by first buying your stud before any queens. Only buy the VERY best stud (and all your cats) you can afford. Starting with high-quality cats will help start you out on the right foot.

What about Savannah Cat websites? Do you have a favorite?

My favorite website is www.SavannahCatChat.com. It was extremely helpful before we got our first Savannahs and is still helpful in finding information and references. I like the forum setting instead of questions asked in a Facebook group. New people often don't know what questions to ask; they can review the topics in a forum and learn a lot. There are categories in the forum setting, making it easier to look through information proactively when you don't have a specific question.

What's the biggest weakness of the Savannah breed?

Too many breeders choose "black nose" over a good Savannah breed type. One of these days, I will photograph a pink-nosed cat and post it. Using the same photo, I'll Photoshop in a black nose and post it to see the difference in responses. I often see many comments like "How stunning!" on pictures of a black-nosed Savannah; that's a poor example of the breed, yet it gets viewed as "perfect" because of the black nose.

What's the biggest strength of the Savannah breed?

One of Savannah's biggest strengths would be the breed's overall healthiness because it is so new. With that said, it's incredibly essential for breeders to be responsible and do all pertinent health testing possible on their cats. Also, remove any cats with health issues or pairings that produce multiple health issues from their breeding program.

What's the most important thing a breeder does?

This is a tough question because there are SO many different areas to get right. But, I think the most critical thing a breeder can do is everything in their power to ensure their cats and kittens are as healthy as possible.

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What should new breeders know about they probably haven't considered?

Most often, breeding cats can't live freely as pets in the house without ruining your home. Some intact females can live together in harmony, but most cannot. And both males AND females will spray; sometimes, the girls are worse than the boys. However, the boys do smell much, much worse. Studs and queens need to be separated to control breeding.

Boys can start spraying and be fertile as early as 4-5 months old, and females can start cycling and get pregnant around four months old. Make sure to build your cat's living quarters before bringing them into your home/cattery.

What's a typical day/routine at your cattery?

I work a full-time job 60+ hours a week to support my family and my hobby. On days I'm not working from home, I wake up at the crack of dawn to clean up any messes made overnight, feed everyone, clean litter boxes, and give them some attention. I then prepare myself for work and clean up the messes I made since I cleaned up earlier. When I get home, I quickly check everyone, with a bit of attention, and clean-up up any major messes I see (notice a theme here?)

Then, I make everyone's meals for dinner and breakfast the following morning so that I can catch a few extra minutes of sleep. I work my way through everyone, giving them dinner, cleaning litter boxes, giving lots of attention, and hosing down the cattery. I then tend to emails (for work and the cattery) and cattery messages/paperwork. Then I spend more time with the kitties until it's time for bed. While trying to fall asleep, I respond to more emails if I don't finish earlier.

(Oh, and before bed, one last check for any messes.)

Who tends to your cattery when you travel for a weekend or vacation?

What's this "vacation" thing you speak of? I thought those were only in fairy tales! Kidding aside, we haven't taken a vacation in the six years we've been breeding. I don't mind, though, since I'm away from home for work (although not as much as I was when we started our cattery). So, vacation to me is spending a whole week sleeping in my bed. The last thing I want to (or can) do is travel on weekends or for a week of vacation. If I need to be gone a couple of days for a cat show or something, I must arrange for my pet sitter to come.

Do you raw feed your cats?

We've been raw feeding since we got our first Savannahs. Our cats are almost exclusively raw-fed, but we give some canned food here and there. I spend my time helping get our kitty families (and anyone else that needs help) educated and starting with raw diets. And, of course, offer advice along the way if they encounter any issues.

Do you or have you bred any other type of cat or animal?

Nope, Savannah's were our first breeding endeavor and my first animal passion.

What do you think about the phasing out of F1 Savannahs?

A Committee is in place to fight the standing rule against registering new Exotics for use in TICA Breeding programs as of September 21st. They presented new wording to rescind and revise that rule. The TICA board of directors will vote at the next board meeting. If it passes, then it will be voted on by TICA members. I hope this passes, as I can't imagine our breed not bringing in any new Servals at this point in development.

What about phasing out F2s and F3s?

On top of all said above, I'd personally miss my early generation Savannahs. They're definitely like no other in purrsonality and intensity.

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You mentioned you work 60 hours a week at your job. What do you do for a living and can you mostly work from home?

I work for a major medical manufacturer. My primary role is traveling throughout my corner of the country, training people to use our medical imaging equipment for my specific modality. I have a secondary role in managing our call center (and staffing it sometimes) and teaching people to work our call center and do other parts of our job remotely.

My job is a varied schedule based on company and customer needs. My job varies between working from home (longer than an eight-hour shift due to compliance “paperwork”), traveling out of state for four to five days, or any schedule between those.

What else would you like the Savannah world to know about you and your cattery?

Above all else, I'm an ethical animal lover, and my cats come first, no questions asked. We might be a small cattery compared to most, and we don't have a fancy professional website or take professional pictures. But we put everything we have into our cattery, and I think we've produced some outstanding Savannahs.

NitroKatz is located in Connecticut and is a TICA-registered hobby breeder of guaranteed healthy, happy, stunning, and pre-spoiled Savannah kittens! NitroKatz is currently producing the highest quality F2B, F3C, and F7SBT Savannah kittens.

NitroKatz's breeding philosophy mirrors that of many catteries, breeding for HEALTH, TEMPERAMENT, and then TYPE. All cats are fully tested when joining and regularly. They are fed the best raw diet with supplements and given lots of toys, playtime, and other enrichment to ensure every kitten has a healthy start in life.

Every kitten comes with a full written HEALTH guarantee. All the cats are pets first and foremost, so only those with the best TEMPERAMENT are kept in the breeding program. This guarantees the new kitten comes with a great TEMPERAMENT, both through genetics as well as socialization.

Our breeding cats are hand-selected to have outstanding and complementary TYPE from some of the best Savannah breeders in the world. This promises every new kitten represents a stunning example of the breed and will possess many traits of the Savannah breed standard, which can be reviewed HERE.

https://nitrokatzsavannahs.com

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Cats of NitroKatz

Cats of NitroKatz

Available: F2 "Nuru" F2 Nuru is a spayed, one-and-a-half-year-old Silver Spotted female.

We imported her for our breeding program, but that didn't work out as we'd hoped. She's petite but proportionate and is ALL early-generation Savannah with her long legs and body. She LOVES to play, and once she gets to know you, she also likes petting and cuddling. But like most earlygeneration Savannahs, she does NOT want to be picked up or restrained.

She's a timid, quiet girl who will take time to acclimate to a new family. (people, pets, kids, activity, etc.) the more you have going on in your home, the longer it will take her to adjust.

Due to her age, she's priced similarly to an F3 at $3,000. This is a great opportunity if you've always wanted an early-generation Savannah! We'll only place Nuru in the US, with NO flights for her. She must be picked up at our cattery in Lebanon, CT, and live within an 8-hour drive. Before contacting us, please check your legality here: https://www.hybridlaw.com/.

If you want to be Nuru's furrever home, please email us your location and a home description. You can provide her to NitroKatzSavannahs@gmail.com.

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A Memorial Tribute to Savannah Breeder Donna Pinillos by: Suzette Moore-Carter Savannah Owner

A Facebook friend, Mandi, from the United Kingdom, recommended Donna when I asked her about three breeders located in South Carolina.

Mandi asked me to let her speak to Donna because she knew of a litter of F-2 kittens coming in the next few weeks.

Mandi sent me a picture of the kitten's mamma laying by Donna's feet, pregnant with them. A few weeks later, I got an email from Donna and a picture of four wet, newly born kittens.

Donna thought she had three females and one male.

I asked her to pick the BEST female for me, as I couldn't make the eight-hour trip until June. She said to give her a few weeks with the kittens to learn their personalities.

About two weeks later, I got a picture of a mom nursing her kittens and a video of a little lightcolored kitten. I asked Donna if that was mine, and she said, "Yes." That was my "Athena-Grace." Every weekend after that, I'd receive either a picture or video of my kitten. Most of the time, it was Saturday, occasionally Sunday, with Donna apologizing for "being so busy, but wanted to send something for the week. I knew then that she was an exceptional breeder.

During our early conversations, she told me she'd been a truck driver and saw a Savannah Cat in a magazine. She contacted the breeder, who said, "She only sold her kittens to celebrities and those kinds of people." Donna mentioned to her husband, Cesar, that she felt disrespected, as if being a truck driver wouldn't allow her to afford a Savannah Cat. It was then that she decided to start a cattery. And she did just that!

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After a few weeks, Donna posted the kittens' pictures to the Savannah Cat group on Facebook and tagged each owner's name. Those kittens were all sold within the first week of their life. The other two "girl" kittens turned out to be boys. Later on, one of those would become my BartleyZeus. Donna was so embarrassed! By this time, we would talk and text each other periodically about Athena, my girl.

I had a small kitten-sized harness for her and asked Donna if she would mind getting used to it if I sent it to her. She happily agreed, and I also asked her if she would start calling her by her name, Athena-Grace, or for short, Athena.

A new breeder in Melbourne, Florida, had initially purchased Bartley. When Donna discovered he was a boy, that buyer decided to wait on the next litter for a female kitten. Donna had named him Mickey due to his large ears.

My husband started following her cattery on Facebook, decided he wanted him, and asked Donna to call him Bartley. Don drove up to get Bartley-Zeus a few weeks later. Now we had two of Donna's babies!

Donna and I had already planned for my mom and me to pick up Athena the first week of June so I could meet the rest of her cats and servals she kept as pets. When Don went to pick up Bartley, he expected the kittens Donna kept in her special "kitten room" (off her master bedroom) to take off fleeing from a stranger. Far from it! All four kittens ran to him, with Bartley leading the way! Two were fighting over being in his hair, and two crawled up his legs. Donna snapped a photo of Bartley and Don and sent it to me. Donna was having a family cookout that holiday weekend and invited us both. I had other plans, and Don needed to return home immediately. She treated us like we were part of her family and had only known us for a couple of months.

A few weeks passed, and I received a video of my Athena and her mom, Livie. Donna talked to Livie in her cutest baby voice, and Livie jumped right up, left Athena flat, and ran over to Donna. That was another time I saw how much Donna's cats loved her.

When Donna put on Athena's harness for the first time, she sent me the video. It was beyond hilarious. Athena acted like she had cooties, trying to escape the harness. It was way too funny! Another few videos featured Athena giving Donna a new hair-do and all four kittens "helping" her sweep the kitten room. My favorite was the one she called their "jailbreak," where all four had knocked down the screen door to their kitten room and ran around her bedroom.

On Don's eight-hour trip back to Florida with Bartley, Donna kept in touch with me by text and phone. She asked me if one of us could please sleep with Bartley that evening as he'd never been

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away from his siblings and was so young. Of course, we'd already discussed that and decided Don would spend the evening with him in our guest room. Again, such an amazing and caring person.

Donna texted me the next morning to ask how Athena was doing. Don and she would text back and forth and exchange Bartley's pictures, and I'd do the same with Athena. I stayed for a few more weeks with my family in N.C. with Athena. Later that same summer, Hurricane Matthew threatened Donna's home. Since her area was prone to flooding, she brought all of her cats inside her home to safety. Not Bentley. He wouldn't go in, so she'd spend the hurricane with him in his pen while her property flooded. And if that weren't enough, she'd had a litter of F3's born during that time.

A week later, it was my turn to meet Athena. Donna had invited my mom and me to stay over as we had a threehour drive from my parents' house in N.C. We arrived, being greeted by Donna and her husband. My mom stayed in the living room with Cesar talking and watching TV with a few of Donna's other kittens. Donna led me back to her kitten room. There, three beautiful sweet kittens greeted me. We sat on the steps and talked while two of those precious kittens were all over me! But neither was my Athena--she was attached to Donna.

That Christmas, Don purchased one of those F-3 kittens because, as he said, "she's the most amazing breeder with the most personality-filled cats." Any questions I had about my two and later my third, Donna always had a logical answer. I could ask her anything. She was always available. We kept in touch, and she became a very good friend to both Don and me.

We went to visit her outside pens to meet some of her other cats, especially her servals. Wow! Just wow! Her male serval, Bentley, was super attached to her. I couldn't meet him up close as he was "momma's baby," and that was it. I was okay with that. But, I met her female serval, Afra, and what a lover she was! I got my first and only kiss from a serval that day! Her cats had the best setup I'd ever seen. Each pen was spotless with a scratching post and a kiddie pool. All her cats were attentive to her as she took me to meet each one. It was apparent how much they all loved her. We were there for a few hours, and when it was time to go, I asked if she would bring Athena to my car. I couldn't separate Athena from her brothers as they ran and played. Donna brought her and teared up when she leaned into the car to give her to me. I told her not to worry; Athena would have the most wonderful life with me and to never change. She was indeed in it for the love of her cats, not the money.

In the Spring of that next year, Don sent her a cute picture of Matthew, the F-3. For the first time, she didn't respond; and she'd always respond. Donna loved to hear about "her babies." A few days later, we'd learn she suffered a brain hemorrhage and stroke. She stayed in the hospital for three months but couldn't recover. Her family brought her home and set up her bed in the living room overlooking her cats. She passed away peacefully a few weeks later, at the age of 55.

There was a memorial service for her in the fall. Along with her family were many friends she'd met as breeders of their cats, as well as other breeders too. We will forever miss Donna. I often want to share Athena, Bartley, and Matthew's pictures and videos with her. She'll always be known to my fur kids as "their Mommy-Donna."

.

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What the "F" is that "F" Word? by: Debra Roberts One of the first things people new to the Savannah world ask is, "what's the 'F#' mean when reading about Savannahs"? First, it's essential to define the "F" word when referring to our beloved Savannahs.

The "F" stands for Filial and is descended from the Latin "filius," meaning "son," and "filia," meaning "daughter." In English (where it's been used since at least the 14th century), it's always applied to both sexes.

So, now we know that filial refers to a son or daughter descendent. We now apply that to mean the African Serval's son or daughter, the point of origin where the Savannah begins. An easy example is F1 = the son or daughter of a serval—F2 = the grandson or granddaughter of a serval, and so on down the line. Now, let's move on to what the number means.

The number refers to how many generations removed the Savannah is from its African Serval parent/ancestor. An F1 Savannah Cat is a first-generation offspring from a serval parent. In Savannah, breeding is generally a male serval bred to a domestic or Savannah female, mostly the latter. An F2 is a second-generation offspring, with the serval being their grandparent. An F3 is a third-generation offspring, making the serval their great-grandparent and, down the line, to F8.

To take things one step further, you'll also, at times, see a letter following the filial and number, such as F3 "C." The letters are for Savannah to Savannah breeding only. For example, our Savannah Luna is an "F3C". Here's the breakdown: A = one parent is a Savannah, and the other parent an outcross, which is the serval in this case. The father is a serval and the mother is a Savannah.

(Fact: F1-F4 and some F5 Savannah males are sterile).

B = both parents are Savannahs, with at least one parent being an "A" and at least one grandparent on either side, an outcross/serval.

C = one parent is "B," and the other can be "B, C, or SBT," and at least one grandparent is an “A”.

You'll also see "SBT," which stands for "Stud Book Tradition."

SBT means the kitten has Savannah parents for at least three generations, making them a purebred Savannah Cat. In summary, any generation male (usually F5-8), when bred to an F1 female, produces an F2 kitten. An F2 female bred to any generation male produces an F3 and so forth. Here's another example: an F3 female and an F6 male produces an F4 kitten. Lastly, ANY female bred to a male serval produces an F1 kitten.

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Ferris Cat Exercise Wheel G5

PHOEBE'S BIG ADVENTURE A Story of Survival Written by: Debra Roberts

Phoebe's our sweet, docile, F5 Savannah girl, whose spots are concealed within her beautiful, unique autumnleaf and ginger-colored coat Phoebe was born 6/21/17 and is full littermate to our silver F5 girl, Calypso.

We got a late start with this little one, as she'd been with her breeder, Paul Casaudoumecq, until coming to live with us on 10/24/18. We never imagined having three, let alone four Savannahs! Phoebe needed a home and where better than with her sister?

What led up to her coming to live with us, is her incredible survival story.

After escaping out the door, running across many acres, and scaling an out-of-reach, unusually-shaped tree (pictured on page 40), Phoebe spent ten days balancing on a branch. Paul couldn't locate her for four days!

Being an experienced climber, he used his gear in an attempt to reach her, making it to the junction of the trunk and the branch. But the branch couldn't hold any human weight. He made multiple trips on foot daily to coax her and feed her by hoisting a laundry basket on a rope, containing raw chicken. Phoebe (then known as "Patches") wasn't able to muster the courage to traverse the thready branches and steep decline to get to the basket. Day after day, Paul tried to lure her down, to no avail--all the while, telling me "she's coming to live with you when I finally get her"!

We'd always had a soft spot for this girl from the time we visited Paul's cattery to bring home our F5 girl Calypso and F3 boy Titan.

I always asked about "Patches" and if she'd found her forever home yet. It was clear that she belonged with us--if she were to survive this ordeal. I felt terrible for not giving her home sooner, which would've avoided her being in this situation. This experience drives home how easy these cats can escape. Paul always says to me, "it's not a matter of IF they escape; it's a matter of WHEN." He's right; we've already had Titan dash out the front door once when it was least expected.

As the days lingered on, the outcome seemed more and more grim.

Paul kept me updated each day on the progress--or lack thereof. And each day, I became more worried. On the tenth day, I received the dreaded message from Paul: "She's no longer in the tree. I'm going to grab Penny (Paul's tracking dog) to see which way she went". My heart sank, and I called my husband to give him the sad news.

It wasn't 30 minutes before I heard from Paul again. He said, "You aren't going to believe this, but I just found her in the barn, sleeping on top of my golf clubs"! I couldn't believe it!

After a visit to the vet and a week of rest, Phoebe was on a plane to Ohio! She was alive, healthy, and unscathed, having lost roughly four pounds.

When I picked Phoebe up at the airport after a full day of flying with two connections, she immediately started to purr in her crate.

Phoebe was very calm on the ride home and in our bathroom during her days of quarantine. It was as if nothing ever happened to her.

Her only stress was the other three cats hissing, growling, and trying to get in the room to see her. It was apparent she was tough as nails and used to being around numerous cats; nothing phased her--especially after what she'd been through, spending ten days stuck in a high tree!

Phoebe used two of her nine lives while stranded in that tree. When she escaped out the door, she scaled the tree and went without food and water for ten days. The second was when she [likely] fell from the tree and returned to safety in her weakened state. She's a fortunate and thankful girl who's perfectly well-behaved and the model house cat. She doesn't meow; she squeaks. She enjoys an occasional walk on the cat wheel but is mainly content to relax. She's awkward on a harness but is happy to wear it if it means she can lay in the grass and catch bugs. She's been the purrfect addition to our Savannah family.

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Phoebe Happy in Her Furrever Home

Phoebe

The "Ripple Rug" Review By: Keri Libbe, Savannah owner

I purchased the Ripple Rug for Echo, my first F2, three and a half years ago.

It was $40 on Amazon and consisted of a stiff 35" x 47" rug floor mat with a rubber backing--a flimsier version of the same rug with cut holes and small randomly placed Velcro pieces.

The concept is to position the lighter rug (with the holes) on the bottom floor mat, using Velcro®, to make tunnels for your cat. The holes can be made larger with scissors as needed. I admit I was slightly disappointed by the product when it arrived as it didn't perform as intended. The rug with the holes collapsed onto the floor mat, and the tunnels didn't stay in position. Echo would plow into it, dislodging the top rug from its bottom as soon as I replaced it.

We went so far as to make wooden spools of different heights, with Velcro at either end, to hold up the "tunnels." These, however, became "chew toys," and we had to abandon that idea. After eight or nine months, Echo rarely played in it unless I was involved, so I eventually put it away.

When Ronin came home, I decided to give the Ripple Rug another shot.

When my Savannah “Ronin” came home, I gave the Ripple Rug another shot. Despite its inability to stay in any position form, this time, it was an instant hit! Ronin made his tunnels with both the rug and the mat.

Now, at just over a year old and over 24 lbs., he enjoys it daily. He drags his toys to it, forces them into one of the smaller holes, and Serval pounces as his prey. He puts his head through one of the large holes and wears it as a cape.

He uses the top rug to play slip-and-slide, hitting it at full speed and sliding it across the hardwood floor - riding it like Aladdin. He drags it around the house, uses it as a scratching rug, and sleeps on it. Echo even joins him at times.

EACH RIPPLE RUG CONSISTS OF 24 POST-CONSUMER RECYCLED PLASTIC BOTTLES! Page 41

DIY Wall Mounted Cat House by: Laura Root, Savannah Owner We've all seen the cat furniture ads and clicked through, only to be astounded by the price. Also, did they think some of our beasts would fit into a little cube of 16"? After studying the design closely, I determined I could make one that Ascher, our 30# F2, could comfortably use with my limited woodworking experience. And it could be built with some of the Maple plywood pieces I had leftover from a previous project.

After fiddling with various dimensions, I settled on a 24" cube, having an angled corner and two entry holes, plus a hole in the top, providing another lounging area while offering a way for the two Savannahs (Tikvah, F6, and Ascher, F2) to interact. I set about designing the plan to mount it in the corner of our bedroom.

This took me about three days to build. I already had most needed materials, so it did not cost $151 (plus shipping!). But even if you need to purchase the basic materials, it won't cost even a third of what purchasing it would be.

As seen in the photos, I made two floating shelves with other scrap materials (with more carpet on top) for the cats to use as steps up to the house.

The Cut List: 2 “backs” – 24” w x 24” h (A & B backs) Both backs need rabits the entire length of their sides and dados for the bottom and top.

2 “sides” – 19” w x 24” h Both sides will need a rabit on one side (mirrored) while the opposite side, mitered at 22 ½ degrees, along with dados for the bottom and top.

1 Bottom/1 Top – Start with a square of 231/4” We’ll shape it in another step.

1 “corner” panel insert – about 8” w x 24” h Dados for the bottom and top will be needed, and miters of 22 ½ degrees on the sides.

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Equipment list: Table saw Router Drill with ½” bit Jig saw Iron-on banding (to finish the raw edges of plywood) Frog Tape Stain and topcoat Glue and spreader Multiple Clamps longer than 24” (you can never have enough clamps!)

Philips screwdriver and #8 x 2 ½” cabinet screws 4-6” ladder Adhesive-backed carpet squares (or scrap carpet and carpet tape)

Because I had enough scrap ½” thick Maple plywood, I decided to use that for the backs, sides, and corner panel.

This keeps the weight down, but I used ¾” thick maple plywood for the top and bottom, because, well... Ascher!

1. Once you have your pieces cut, the routing begins. Based on the wood I was using, I made my rabits on the sides of both the backs and mirrored sides, and the “front” panel is ¼” deep and ½” wide.

2. My dados were made ¼” deep and ¾” wide because the top and bottom were ¾” plywood. Once glued, these dados will help keep everything in alignment and offer good support for jumping and playful cats! The dados' positioning will determine how much space there will be for a ledge on the top of the house and a place for attaching to the wall; for the bottom, how much space you will have for attaching the house to the wall from the bottom. The way I built ours, there is a 2 1/4” upper ledge to contain lounging cats, and the top edge of the bottom dado is at 3” (I built this much like a very weird-shaped cabinet). This leaves more or less 18” inside the house

A "rabit" is a cut into a piece of wood along the edge. A "dado" is that same "cut" but farther inside the wood slab. The cut at the bottom is a rabbit. The cut-up in the middle is a dado.

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3. I sketched an arched opening in the center of the two sides, beginning at the TOP of the lower dado for the bottom. Once installed, This allows the bottom to flush with the opening. I used a DeWalt drill with a ½” bit to make holes at the lower corners and the beginning of the upper arch to use the jigsaw to complete the cutout. (I like arched openings, but it’s more complicated than having a square opening, which is perfectly acceptable.) My openings are 10” w x 12” h. If your cats are “normal” sized, you can make them smaller. Sand the edges of the plywood smooth.

4. The top and bottom will need to cut their “front” angles – this can be done now or later, after staining, but just before assembly. Jigsaw still in hand; decide where you’d like an opening in the top for the cats to use. I placed ours a few inches inside of the front angle, with an 8” diameter.

5. Miter at 22 ½ degrees the mirrored sides (opposite the side with the rabbit!) and both sides of the front panel. Based on what materials you use, the calculations for the width of the sides and front panel and the top and bottom cut angle will need to be done on the fly.

6. Place your iron-on banding on the tops and bottoms of all sides, backs, and front panels. This will give a nice, smooth look to this piece of cat furniture.

7. Mask all rabits and dados to prevent the stain and topcoat from getting on the edges – a clean, raw edge is necessary for the wood glue to adhere properly.

Apply your choice of stain and topcoat, sanding between layers.

8. Once the last layer of the topcoat is dried down, you can assemble the box. Begin with a back and a side, then glue the top and bottom into the dados of that corner assembly. Clamp and let the glue cure for at least 20 minutes (it grabs quickly). Continue with the other back, remembering to place glue into the top and bottom dados, clamp, and wait. Glue the last side, top and bottom, clamp, and wait.

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9. Your front panel is last – ensure proper dimensions with a dry fit. Using Frog Tape (it holds well without leaving marks on finished wood), place strips of tape on the front panel's FRONT edges. These will act as clamps (unless you've got special angle clamps, which work very well) once you apply the glue.

Remember to put glue into the top and bottom dados and the angled sides, then insert the front panel into place, making sure to line up the edges with the angled sides. Press the Frog Tape tightly around the corners, then add horizontal strips at the top, bottom, and middle to ensure good contact.

10. Once all the glue is cured, it's time to install it! We put ours at about 60" from the floor. Locate the studs in the corner and walls where you want the house, and mark them with Frog Tape. Installing took two people – one to hold in place, the other using the screwdriver. Use the ladder to reach the top ledge for installing screws there.

11. I'd ordered some 24" adhesive carpet squares, but they didn't arrive until after installing the house. It was easy even then to place the carpet on the top, cut it to fit, and cut the hole's opening. The bottom carpet was simple: just cut off the corner to fit, roll it up, insert it inside the house, and lay it down.

DIY CAT HOUSE Learn more about making your own amazing cat house!

Do you have a DIY project to share with your fellow readers?

Let's hear it!

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Don't miss our awesome cat tree below in the next issue!

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 cats. 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 needed an organization that could help pet Savannahs BEFORE being surrendered or euthanized. A group evolved, and the idea came to fruition with the help of many people. The SVCCF works with Savannah Cat Rescue to save our precious Savannahs. The SCCF works with the community and anyone needing 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, primarily focusing 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 are 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, (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.

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SCR identifies qualified foster homes and places rescued cats for evaluation until they are placed into permanent homes. SCR will work with foster homes to rehabilitate cats if necessary, have them vetted (vaccinated and spayed/neutered), and evaluate any special needs or requirements. SCR gives first preference to foster homes if their home is a good fit.

Although the Savannah breed is young, it's growing fast, and the number of Savannah cats and catteries producing Savannahs is increasing. SCR expects to see more Savannah cats in rescue in the future, but this is NOT a reflection of a breed problem; it is merely a fact of feline life.

Founded in 2003, Savannah Cat Rescue (SCR) is a volunteer service (not brick and mortar) by Savannah breeders Kristine Alessio and Brigitte Cowell Moyne, along with a core group of volunteers across the United States and Canada. The mission of SVR is to rescue Savannah Cats and educate the public about the Savannah Cat Breed.

SVR cats come from various places, the primary being breeders who've sold kittens to owners who are unprepared or unable to care for a Savannah.

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 have bred, regardless of age or circumstances.

Luckily, most Savannah breeders fall into this "good" category!

Available rescued Savannah cats are showcased on the SCR Facebook page or https://groups.io/g/SavannahCatRescue. SCR 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 SCR will be spayed or neutered and come from a foster or the current owner's home.

Please check the Hybrid Law site to ensure Savannahs are legal where you live before asking about an available Savannah. SCR will NOT adopt to anyone living in an illegal area! Contact your local Animal Control officer if you need more clarification about your community's legality, homeowners association, city, county, state, or province. Always ensure you're legally compliant with the number of pets you may own. We require landlord permission and proof to own a cat if you rent or lease your home.

Adoption fees for each Rescue Savannah are usually $200, and donations fund SCR.

When owners first contact the SVR, they prefer to help them work through any problem(s) they may have. If a resolution is unsuccessful or the owner has lost the patience or ability to deal with the situation, SCR can take possession of the cat with the owner's agreement (a legal surrender form).

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Written with permission by SCR. Please consider donating to the SCR here.

s k c i P s ' r o t i d E Mr. Peanut's Expandable Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier I've tried so many different carriers and pet taxis for our four, and this is by far the best! As much as they all love one another when at home, they hate each other when traveling. We finally bit the bullet and bought them each their own carrier. This one fits the bill for safety, expansion, and overall comfort for both your cat and you.

ökocat Natural Wood Clumping Cat Litter This plant-based litter is cleaner and healthier for your cat, family, and home. The wood fiber naturally prevents enzymes from bonding with liquid and waste to stop the creation of ammonia and odor. It clumps solid for easy scooping and is 99% dust-free. Okocat litter is biodegradable and flushable. It's made from sustainably sourced, responsibly rescued natural wood fiber that can be safely returned to the earth. Just scoop and flush one clump at a time. Okocat litter absorbs fast and never sticks to your box. With regular scooping, litter can last up to 7 weeks.

Feliscratch by Feliway Feliscratch is my go-to scratching aid! I first learned about this from Steve Dale a few years ago when we got our first Savannah. I wasn't sure I wanted to put the purple liquid on our scratching posts, but it really works! The color doesn't stay and fade away. Feliscratch redirects scratching onto the scratching post and is clinically proven to help reduce or stop unwanted scratching in the home.

When applied on the scratching surface, Feliscratch sends a message to the cat visually (blue lines) and invisibly (territory messages) to direct the cat to scratch there.

You can get it now at Chewy.com for $5.99 and Amazon Prime for $14.61.

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s k c i P s ' r o t i Ed Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Cat Wipes 100 wipes

KONG Scratch Apple Cat Toy Cat Toy

Gonicc Cat Nail Clippers

Suitical Recovery Suit for Cats

Do you have a product you love and want to share with your fellow readers? Submit it here!

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Ask Auntie Vannah

Q&A Ask us anything Sa"vannah" you want to know and we'll address it in a future issue! Check out the list of commonly asked questions on the next page.

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Is there a subscription fee to read Savannahgans Magazine®?

This is a labor of love from one Savannah lover to all others. However, we have many expenses to make this a legitimate and legal publication (insurance, trademark, web hosting, illustrator, etc.). If you'd like to support us, you can do so on our website in one of several ways listed below. It's our hope, once we get a small revenue flow, to donate proceeds to the Savannah Rescue and Care Funds! We'll always be transparent and share all donations made to these causes so you can see how your support is helping.

Shopping through any of our affiliate links (Litter-Robot, Ferris Cat Wheel, Etsy, and Amazon Products) Doing your regular Amazon shopping through our Amazon banner on our website.

Supporting us through a monthly Patreon donation Direct donations via Paypal

There's so much great information here! How long did it take to put this issue together?

We started this venture in February of this year. Minus the 6-8 week initial COVID hiatus (awaiting information from my many contributors as they adjusted to the changing climate), I finished the first issue on June 14th, 2020, and this one on September 3rd.

How often will Savannahgans Magazine® be published?

The plan is to release issues in January, April, July, and October starting in 2021. We're slowly getting on track as we release the following three issues this year, 2020. The Summer issue is slated for early September, and Fall for mid-late October 2020. The winter issue will begin on track in January 2021 and April, July, and October.

How will Savannahgans Magazine® be available for me to read?

Please go to our website, click on the tab "Magazine" at the top, or one cover photo of the current issue" on the home page. You'll also see a beautiful, full-color digital magazine with clickable links and videos! From there, you'll see a pop-up box where you can subscribe (free) and be the first to know about the next issue's release!

I want to share a great Savannah story, DIY project, or product review. How can I get it published here?

You can submit your story idea by visiting our website and clicking the "contact" tab on the top menu.

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Peri Hughes started Barron Photografix nearly two decades ago. She's a passionate photographer who enjoys gardening and spending time with her precious kitties. She enjoys learning new techniques and building her creative portfolio.

One of Peri's newest ventures is custom cat-themed gift items. These gifts range from mugs to wine tumblers and make the perfect gift for the cat lover in your life. Peri lovingly assembles each design, and her lab creates these beautiful keepsakes. Each one can be customized to your specific wants or needs. Peri and her team make your order personal by quickly answering questions and sending proofs. If you haven't checked them out, do it now on her Etsy page.

WWW.BARRONPHOTOGRAFIX.COM

Use code SAVANNAHGANS at our Etsy Store for 10% off Savannah-related products!