Bengal vs Savannah Cat: Size, Energy, Cost and Legality Compared
Bengals and Savannahs are two of the most striking cats in the world, with leopard-like spots, athletic bodies and a hint of the wild. Both began as crosses between domestic cats and small wild cats. For anyone drawn to the wild look, choosing between them requires thinking about size, energy, law and cost.
Origins
Bengal. Developed from crosses between domestic cats and the Asian leopard cat, beginning in the 1960s and 1970s. After several generations, breeders produced cats with the leopard-like coat and domestic temperament. Bengals from fourth generation (F4) and later are generally considered fully domestic. See the Bengal profile.
Savannah. Developed from crosses between domestic cats and the serval, a tall, long-legged African wild cat, beginning in the 1980s. Savannahs are classed by filial generation, F1 to F5 and beyond, with early generations being closest to the serval. See the Savannah profile.
Size and appearance
| Feature | Bengal | Savannah |
|---|---|---|
| Typical weight | 8 to 15 pounds | 10 to 25 pounds or more, varying by generation |
| Build | Muscular, medium to large | Tall, lean, long legs and neck, big ears |
| Coat | Spotted or marbled, glittering | Spotted, serval-like |
| Colors | Brown, snow, silver, others | Brown, silver, black, smoke |
Savannahs, especially early generations, are taller and more dramatic, while Bengals are more compact.
Temperament and energy
Both breeds are very active, intelligent and curious. They climb, jump, explore and investigate. Both need plenty of play and mental challenge, and many learn tricks and walk on a harness. See harness training a cat and indoor cat enrichment ideas.
Bengals are typically confident and sociable, though they can be demanding, and many love water. Savannahs are often described as dog-like and loyal, bonding closely with their people, but they may be wary of strangers and have a powerful jump, sometimes reaching heights of six feet or more. Early-generation Savannahs can be stronger and more unpredictable, while later generations are more like Bengals in manageability.
Neither breed is a good fit for an owner who is away all day. See leaving a cat alone.
Legal rules
Laws on hybrid cats vary across the United States and elsewhere. Some states ban hybrids entirely, some restrict early generations, and some require permits. Bengals from F4 onward are widely accepted, while Savannahs from F1 to F3 face stricter rules in many places. Check state and local rules, and housing rules, before you commit. Also check airline and travel rules.
Care and diet
Both need high-quality food and a safe, stimulating home with tall cat trees, shelves and secure outdoor space. See how to choose a cat tree and how to build a catio. Both have short coats that need only weekly brushing. See how to brush a cat.
Health
- Bengal. Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy and some gut problems. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
- Savannah. Concerns include heart disease and digestive sensitivity, and early generations may have specific needs. Some vets are less familiar with them.
Both need regular veterinary care. See cat vaccination schedule. Rabies vaccination is essential. See rabies and cats.
Cost
Bengals often cost less than Savannahs. Early-generation Savannahs can cost many thousands of dollars, in part because they are difficult to breed. Add the costs of food, enrichment, enclosures and veterinary care. See cat pet insurance guide.
Which is right for you?
Choose a Bengal if you want an exotic look, a smart and active cat, and a breed that is easier to find and more widely legal.
Choose a Savannah if you are an experienced owner with space, a large budget and a clear understanding of local laws, and you want a tall, dramatic cat.
If you are a first-time owner, a Bengal from a reputable breeder is the more realistic choice, and a calmer breed may be even better. See best cat breeds for first-time owners and how to choose a cat breed. Also see the Chausie and Ocicat profiles for similar looks with different needs.
Questions to ask a breeder
Whichever breed you choose, buy from a breeder who is open about generation, health testing and living conditions. Ask to see the parents, ask for written health guarantees, and ask which genetic tests have been done. For Bengals, ask about heart screening and eye tests. For Savannahs, ask about the generation, the legal paperwork and the plan for early socialization. Be wary of sellers who offer kittens at very low prices or who cannot answer basic questions. A good breeder will ask about your home as well, and may have a contract that requires you to return the cat if you cannot keep it. Also ask about the diet the kittens are raised on, and plan to continue it for a while to avoid stomach upsets.
When to see a vet
Choose a vet with experience with exotic breeds if possible. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Which is bigger, a Bengal or a Savannah?
Savannahs are generally taller and heavier, especially early generations.
Which is easier to own?
Bengals, because they are more common, more widely legal and usually easier to find in later generations.
Are both hybrids?
Both started as hybrids, but most pet Bengals and later-generation Savannahs are domestic cats.
Which costs more?
Early generation Savannahs can cost far more, but both can be expensive.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- The International Cat AssociationBreed information and a global cat registry.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.