Safari

Overall description of the breed

The Safari, also known as "Criollo" or "Appaloosa," is a hybrid cat breed that embodies the wild beauty of African wildcats while retaining the affectionate and social nature of domestic cats. The history of the Safari dates back to the 1970s when a passion for exotic felines led to bold experiments in crossing domestic cats with wild felines.

One of the key figures in the creation of the Safari breed is Patrick Kelley, a cat breeder based in the United States. In the 1970s, Kelley began crossing Geoffroy's cats (Leopardus geoffroyi) from South America with Siamese and Oriental Shorthair domestic cats. The goal was to create a new breed that would combine the majestic appearance of servals with the loving traits of domestic cats.

The name "Safari" echoes the African origin of the wildcats that served as the foundation for the breed's creation. The result of these crosses was a short-haired, spotted cat reminiscent of the appearance of wildcats in the African savannah. The Safari quickly drew attention for its unique appearance and resemblance to wild felines.

The morphology of the Safari reflects its hybrid heritage. These cats typically have an elegant and muscular appearance with long, slender legs. Their ears are relatively large and pointed, resembling those of servals, and their coat is short and dense, with various spots that evoke the look of wildcats.

The coat colors of the Safari vary, but they are often in shades of fawn, red, and black, with spotted markings (spotted tabby). The coat patterns and colors are designed to mimic the appearance of servals and other African wildcats.

As for temperament, the Safari combines the wild with friendly and social personality traits. These cats are often described as intelligent, curious, and active. While they have a more independent nature than some other domestic cats, they can also become very attached to their owners and enjoy human interaction.

In terms of measurements, the average weight of a Safari usually ranges between 6 and 9 kg (13,2 to 19,8 lb), but some specimens can reach up to 15 kg (33lb). Regarding size, Safaris typically measure between 35 and 45 cm (13,5 to 17,5 inches) at the shoulder.

The official recognition of the Safari breed is still relatively limited. This breed is not yet recognized by major cat organizations and is rare; in 2007, only 100 registered specimens were recorded by the TICA (The International Cat Association), one of the few feline clubs that unofficially recognize it today. Nevertheless, clubs and groups dedicated to the Safari are actively working to promote the breed and establish breed standards, hoping for broader recognition in the future.

In conclusion, the Safari embodies the adventurous spirit and boldness of feline enthusiasts who sought to capture the beauty of African wildcats in a unique domestic cat breed. Although its official recognition is still pending, the Safari draws attention for its exotic appearance and endearing personality. With its elegant morphology and distinctive nature, the Safari has the potential to become a cherished breed for cat lovers worldwide while reflecting the majestic essence of the great African predators.