Hi Laura,
I think if Echo is used to being around other cats, you should not have a problem with a "regular" cat, as long as he or she is of the same energy level as Echo, and seems to be a good match personality wise. If the new kitty is laid back and Echo is not, (or vice versa) there might be an issue with the new cat not wanting to play or interact with Echo. Some breeds are known to like a quieter, more sedate life...Ragdolls are one. There are several high-energy breeds of cats that make wonderful playmates with Savannahs...my Ocicat is every bit as high-energy as my Savannahs, and is the perfect complement for them; Abyssinians and Siamese are others. I also have a DSH who is not so active, but fits in very well with everyone; she takes the energy level here in stride and sometimes joins in the fun. Almost every kitten I have placed has gone to a home with an older non- Savannah cat, with great results. I think for the most part, as long as they both are altered, it should not make a difference whether they are male or female. Some female cats, however, will not tolerate any other female in the house, even when spayed. Those cats seem to do best with an altered male. If you decide a friend would be good for Echo, be sure the new cat is healthy and quarantined at first, and introduce the two cats slowly after the quarantine period. You might consider a young adult cat or older kitten, rather than a mature (older than 5-7 years) feline who may be set in their ways. It may take a while for the cats to warm up to each other and become buddies. Don't be discouraged if that happens; but be willing to let the introduction period be as long as needed, several months even. I would also recommend not changing anything else in your household (decor, moving furniture, food, etc) when the introduction period is in effect, and be sure to add another litter box or 2, and it also helps to have a quiet safe area each cat can retreat to if they need to get away from each other. Good luck!
