Servals as Pets

Native to Africa, servals are medium-sized wild cats that have been domesticated for people to keep as pets. Servals range in size from 18-40 pounds and are anywhere between 1 ½ to 2 feet tall with male servals typically larger than females. They are typically characterized by their slender build, larger back legs than front legs, small head, and yellow coat with black spots that resembles a cheetah.

Because they are typically a wild cat, servals are not very popular pets, so you may have questions and concerns if you are planning on getting one. Contact or visit your local Austin Veterinarian Clinic today to speak with a professional about keeping a serval as a pet.

Serval Behavior

Servals are typically more of a time commitment than regular house cats, especially if you want yours to be house-trained and safe around strangers. Servals have much more energy than normal cats and are therefore more playful and more work. Some common serval behavior traits include:

• They are shy and fairly nocturnal
• They hunt by sight and sound
• They can hunt prey by hearing them underground
• They enjoy playing by the water
• Instead of meowing, servals snarl, growl, and chirp
• Sometimes, they will pant in warm weather

You need to know everything you can about a serval before making the decision to get one as a pet. Not all pets are right for every family, so be sure to ask any questions you have and find out as much information as you can about them first.

Contact Us

We are here to answer any questions you have. Call your local Austin Vet Clinic today to schedule an appointment or to discuss your pet concerns.