Serengeti
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3.5–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–15 yrs
- active
- confident
- vocal
- devoted
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Serengeti
The Serengeti is a tall, slender, spotted cat bred to resemble the African serval without using any wild cat in its make-up. It was developed by crossing Bengals and Oriental Shorthairs, giving it long legs, large ears and a bold spotted coat.
Temperament
Active, confident and talkative. Serengetis bond strongly with their family and like to be involved in everything going on, often following owners around the house.
Play & activity
High. They need a lot of play, climbing and stimulation.
Grooming
Weekly brushing is enough for the short coat.
Care & wellbeing
This is a young and uncommon breed, so long-term health information is limited. Ask breeders about screening for conditions found in the parent breeds, such as heart disease and inherited eye problems.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5.3 kg adult- Water
- 212 ml–318 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 290 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Serengeti
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed was started in 1994 in California by Karen Sausman, crossing Bengals with Oriental Shorthairs. It is recognised by TICA. Numbers remain small worldwide.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Limited health data
- Possible inherited conditions from Bengal and Oriental lines
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Echocardiogram for breeding cats
- PRA DNA tests as appropriate
Not every Serengeti is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Serengeti right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Serengeti get?
Adult Serengetis typically weigh around 3.5–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Serengetis live?
Typically 10–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Serengeti?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Serengeti need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Serengetis affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Serengetis shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Serengetis good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Serengeti live in a flat?
It can work — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Serengetis have?
The breed can be prone to limited health data, possible inherited conditions from bengal and oriental lines. Not every Serengeti is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.