Bengal vs Savannah
Both are spotted, athletic, wild-looking cats with huge energy, and both come from crossing a domestic cat with a wild species. Bengals have a small wild cat (the Asian leopard cat) in their past, several generations back, while Savannahs come from the serval, a large African wild cat, and early generations are much closer to it.
Side by side
| Bengal | Savannah | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA | USA |
| Size | Medium to large | Large and tall |
| Weight | Usually 3.5 to 7 kg | Usually 4 to 9 kg, more in early generations |
| Lifespan | Usually 12 to 16 years | Often 12 to 17 years |
| Coat | Short, dense and silky, often with a glittery shine | Short, with bold spots on a tawny, golden or silver coat |
| Energy | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Chattiness | 4 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Grooming needed | 1 out of 5 | 1 out of 5 |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Good with other pets | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
Scores are our own rough guide. Every cat is different.
The main differences
- Ancestry: Bengals are usually many generations from the leopard cat, and pet Bengals are fully domestic. Savannah generations are labelled F1, F2 and so on, and the earliest are the closest to the serval.
- Size: Savannahs are tall and long-legged, and early generations can be very large. Bengals are medium to large and muscular.
- Rules: early-generation Savannahs can need a licence in the UK. Bengals do not.
- Needs: both need lots of play and space. Savannahs usually need more space and more secure surroundings.
Choose a Bengal if
- You want a spotted, athletic cat that is fully domestic
- You can give daily play, tall climbing and puzzle toys
- You want a cat that is easier to insure and rehome
Choose a Savannah if
- You are an experienced owner with plenty of space and time
- You are happy to follow any licensing rules
- You understand the extra cost and commitment
Our verdict
For most people who love the wild look, a Bengal is the more practical choice, with a long history as a pet and no licence issues. A Savannah, especially an early generation, can be a rewarding cat for an experienced owner with lots of space and time, but it is a big commitment. Whichever you choose, ask about health testing and check the rules with your local council.
Read the full guides: Bengal and Savannah. Or see more cat breeds. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
Is a Savannah bigger than a Bengal?
Usually taller and often larger, especially in early generations.
Do you need a licence for a Bengal or Savannah in the UK?
Early-generation Savannahs can need a Dangerous Wild Animals licence, while Bengals do not. Check with your local council before you buy.
