African Wild Cat:
* Wild animal: Found in the wild, primarily in Africa and the Middle East.
* Small size: Typically weighs 5-10 pounds, much smaller than the Savannah cat.
* Shorter legs: They have a more compact body with shorter legs compared to the Savannah cat.
* Striped or spotted coat: Their coat is usually a mix of brown, gray, and tan, with stripes or spots.
* Solitary: They are generally solitary animals, unlike the Savannah cat.
* Domestication: They are not domesticated and are known to be shy and elusive.
Savannah Cat:
* Hybrid: A hybrid breed created by crossbreeding a domestic cat (usually an Abyssinian or Siamese) with an African Serval.
* Larger size: They are significantly larger than African wild cats, weighing 15-25 pounds.
* Longer legs and slender body: They have a long, slender body with long legs and a distinctive "dog-like" gait.
* Coat patterns: They have a variety of coat patterns, often with a spotted coat and distinctive "ruddy" markings.
* Social: They are known for their dog-like personality and are generally friendly and social with humans.
* Domesticated: They are domesticated, bred for companionship.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | African Wild Cat | Savannah Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Wild | Hybrid |
| Size | Small (5-10 pounds) | Larger (15-25 pounds) |
| Body type | Compact with shorter legs | Long and slender with longer legs |
| Coat pattern | Striped or spotted | Spotted with "ruddy" markings |
| Personality | Shy, elusive | Friendly, social |
| Domestication | Not domesticated | Domesticated |
Important Note: While Savannah cats are domesticated, they still retain some of the wild instincts of their Serval ancestors. They require experienced owners who understand their unique needs and can provide them with proper socialization and enrichment.