Male Savannah Cat

DOB appx. 1/1/05

Rescued 3/4/08

Moved to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge on December 14, 2023

Diablo is a savannah cat, which is a hybrid between a domestic cat and an African serval.

This cross-breeding is not only cruel to the animals involved but also produces confused offspring that can not figure out how to be a house pet. Diablo is very unfriendly and has inherited every bit of a serval’s hissy personality. He is also food-aggressive and turns into a dangerous wildcat at feeding time. Diablo marks his territory including his new toys, enrichment, his trees, and dens by spraying them. All of these nasty habits, just for a pretty coat pattern, don’t seem like a wise trade-off.

Because his owners discarded him for being who he was, Diablo will live out the remainder of his life in a cage. While this is sad, at least he will be free to be the wild animal that he is.

Here at Big Cat Rescue Diablo is very loved however all of his caregivers respect his wild side and do not try to treat him like a pet, something he seems to greatly appreciate. He loves his suite of cages and all the foliage provided for him to hide in. He loves lounging on his platform sniffing the gentle breezes coming off Tiger Lake.

He works diligently keeping all of his toys "well-marked!" He enjoys treats and spying on his neighbors.

September 21, 2018 - Gift For Diablo

Come along for a ride to see what a volunteer has made for Diablo the Savannah Cat who is very special to her.

March 4, 2020, Happy Rescue Anniversary

Diablo Savannah enjoys some anniversary enrichment! Diablo is very shy but is celebrating his 12 year Rescue Anniversary so Keeper Brittany brought him some spice bags and a perfume tube!

August 22, 2022 DIABLO HYBRID VET UPDATE:

Diablo was seen by Dr. Justin at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay this afternoon. He had been inappetent and seen straining to urinate yesterday and today. He had a blockage and a full bladder, which Justin was able to relieve. He will be spending at least a week in the recovery cabana so we can ensure the blockage does not reappear. We will also be trying a prescription cat food with him.

Learn more about the horrible practice of hybrid breeding at https://bigcatrescue.org/hybrid-facts/

Diablo