What does savannah SBT mean?

A Savannah SBT (Stud Book Tradition) cat refers to a Savannah cat that has been bred over several generations of registered Savannahs, with a specific breeding program to maintain the characteristic traits of the breed while minimizing the presence of wild genes. 

- Generations: A Savannah SBT cat is generally part of the F4 generations and beyond. These cats were born to parents who are all registered Savannahs (at least F4 or above) and no longer contain serval genes in their DNA. This means that these cats are closer to classic domestic cats, while retaining the distinctive appearance and traits of the Savannah breed.

Why is the SBT designation important? 

- Genetic Stability: Savannah SBT cats have more stable genetics, making them more suited to family life and easier to socialize compared to generations closer to the serval (F1, F2, F3). 

- Conformity to the breed standard: A Savannah SBT cat is considered a purebred cat according to the standards of the cat associations, because it comes from crosses with registered Savannahs and not from crosses with servals.

- Fewer legal restrictions: Since SBTs no longer possess serval genes, they are generally subject to fewer legal restrictions in many regions, unlike F1, F2, and F3.

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Summary 

A Savannah SBT cat is a cat that belongs to a more advanced generation of the breed, where the genetic influence of the serval is almost non-existent. These cats are often more suited as pets, while still retaining the wild and elegant appearance of Savannahs.