Safari

Photo: adult cat of Safari breed

Safaris are a new hybrid breed and only about 70 individuals exist in the world. They are the product of a cross between the domestic cat and the Geoffroy’s Cat, a Bolivian species of feline. Safaris are mysterious, little known and fascinating...

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Life expectancy

The {breedName} has a life expectancy of approximately 15 years

Temperament

Adult size

Female Between 16 and 18 in
Male Between 16 and 18 in

Adult weight

Female Between 24 and 33 lb
Male Between 24 and 33 lb
Coat colour
Black Brown White Red Cream
Type of coat
Short
Eye colour
Green
Yellow
Good to know

There is a high degree of similarity between the genome of several wild cat species, which makes hybridisation between domestic cats and some of their wild cousins easier. Several of them have the same number of chromosomes, often with identical structure.

Nevertheless, the Safari is the result of a cross between the domestic cat and the Geoffroy’s Cat, Leopardus geoffroyi. These cousin species are both part of the Felidae family and are sufficiently similar from a genetic point of view to produce viable hybrid offspring. However, the genome of the Geoffroy’s Cat has 36 chromosomes next to the domestic cat’s 38. Whereas Safaris, the descendants of this hybridisations, have 37 chromosomes themselves. This genetic variability between the two species makes crossing them more difficult and the process is laborious and complicated.

When choosing a cat of this breed, it is important to be meticulous with documentation and make sure to contact trustworthy breeders.

More details about the Safari

Safari: Origins and history

The Safari originates from the United States. The initial pairing of a Geoffroy’s Cat with a domestic cat occurred in a research lab in the seventies - the practice of breeding them came about in the decades that followed. Today, there are around 70 individuals registered by TICA (The International Cat Association).

Safari: Purchase price

The purchase price of a Safari varies enormously from one kitten to another. Hower, as this breed is still very new, there is not enough date to set an average price for this cat. The price will therefore be high because of the breed’s rarity. The cat’s lineage, sex and age can also influence the cost. You should allow for at least £40 per month to meet their needs, by offering them a high quality diet and ensuring to keep them in good health.

Be wary of fraudulent breeders who deceptively try and sell cats of other breeds as Safaris.

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