Maine Coon vs. Savannah: The Battle of the Giants#
If you want a “Big Cat,” you usually end up debating two breeds:
- The Maine Coon: The largest domestic cat breed.
- The Savannah: A hybrid cross between a domestic cat and a wild African Serval.
They are both huge. They are both expensive. But owning them is a completely different experience. One is a pet; the other is a lifestyle (and sometimes a legal liability).
1. The “Wild” Factor#
- Maine Coon: 100% Domestic. No wild blood. They have been barn cats for 200 years. Their “wild look” is just fur and bone structure.
- Savannah: Part Wild Animal. An “F1” Savannah is 50% African Serval. They retain wild instincts. They can jump 8 feet straight up. They open doors. They hunt with intensity.
2. Temperament#
- Maine Coon: The “Golden Retriever.” They want to be near you. They are lazy-playful. They sleep on your bed.
- Savannah: The “Toddler on Red Bull.” They are high-energy, intelligent, and demanding. If you don’t play with them for 2 hours a day, they will destroy your sofa. They are not lap cats.
3. Legality & Ethics#
- Maine Coon: Legal everywhere.
- Savannah: Illegal in many states (like NY, MA, HI) and countries (UK, Australia) depending on the generation. You might need a “Wild Animal Permit” to own one.
4. Size: Heavy vs. Tall#
- Maine Coon: Heavy. A male is 20-25 lbs of muscle and fluff. They are “coby” (stocky).
- Savannah: Tall. They look like a cheetah. They might weigh less (15-20 lbs) but stand much taller at the shoulder.
Conclusion#
- Get a Maine Coon if you want a massive, affectionate, safe family pet that looks wild but acts tame.
- Get a Savannah if you are an experienced owner who wants an exotic, high-maintenance animal and has checked your local laws.
Resources & Further Reading#
- TICA: Savannah Breed Standard.
- Hybrid Law: State-by-State laws on owning Hybrid Cats.