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Questions to Ask a Savannah Breeder Before You Buy (2026)

Savannah breeding has more disreputable operations than almost any other breed. The exotic appeal and high prices attract breeders who prioritize profit over health and ethics. These questions protect you from a $5,000–20,000+ mistake.

Health Testing Questions — Non-Negotiable

Are your breeding cats HCM-screened? Ask for documentation of cardiac screening.
Have kittens been screened for liver shunts (portosystemic shunts)? More common in F1/F2 generations. Ask specifically about this for early-generation kittens.
What vaccine protocol do you use? Some Savannahs react to modified live vaccines. Ask if they use killed vaccines and what their protocol is.
What health guarantee does your contract include? A reputable breeder offers at minimum a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Read the contract carefully.

Generation and Registration Questions

What filial generation is this kitten (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5)? Generation significantly affects temperament, size, and price. F1/F2 are the most exotic and most demanding. F4/F5 are closer to domestic cats in temperament.
Is the kitten TICA-registered? Registration provides accountability and confirms the breeding lineage.
Can you provide the pedigree? A reputable breeder provides full pedigree documentation.

Legal and Ownership Questions

Is Savannah ownership legal in my state/city? Savannahs are banned or restricted in several US states and many municipalities. The breeder should know this and ask where you live before selling. If they don't ask, that's a red flag.
Do you take cats back if the owner can't keep them? Reputable breeders have a return policy. Savannahs are sometimes surrendered when owners underestimate the demands.

Socialization and Environment Questions

Are kittens raised in your home? Home-raised Savannahs are better socialized. Cattery-only raising can produce more skittish animals.
At what age do you release kittens? 12–16 weeks minimum. Earlier is a red flag.
Have kittens been exposed to dogs, children, and different environments? Critical for a breed this active and intelligent.

Red Flags to Watch For

Claiming F1 or F2 kittens at prices below $5,000 — genuine F1 Savannahs cost $10,000–20,000+
No TICA registration or pedigree documentation
No health testing documentation
Not asking where you live (legal restrictions)
Kittens available immediately with no waitlist
Pressure to decide quickly

What a Good Savannah Costs

F5: $3,000–5,000. F4: $4,000–7,000. F3: $5,000–10,000. F2: $8,000–15,000. F1: $10,000–20,000+. See: How Much Does a Savannah Cat Cost?

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