Bengal Cat Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Bengal Cat?

The Bengal, unsurprisingly, has quite the history when it comes to its origins. It's said that one of its ancestors is the small wild Asian leopard cat.

Bengals take the name from the Asian leopard's scientific name - Felis bengalensis. Crossed between the Asian leopard cat and domestic shorthairs, a breeder called Jean Mill in California was the first to make this cross.

The same cross-breeding was happening at a university by Dr Willard Centerwall. Due to the leopard's feline resistance to the feline leukemia virus, tests were being done to see if this would pass onto the offspring.

Who are Bengal Cat cats best for?

As the Bengal cat is a fairly active and sociable breed, it's going to suit families with children or cat-friendly dogs.

It's not necessarily the best breed for seniors and any couples that might have quite the active social life that is common with those in their 20s and 30s.

If you've got a fairly energetic family, then Bengals are the perfect domestic cats to have in your home.

What does the Bengal Cat look like?

Bengal cats are reasonably small with a round head and large eyes. They've also got strong muscular bodies and a streamlined shape that's much like their Asian leopard cat ancestors.

Their hind legs are longer than the front, giving them the power to run fast.

What is the coat of a Bengal Cat?

A Bengal's coat is short and thick and feels very soft to the touch. The coat itself is fairly easy to maintain and, as such, is hypoallergenic. So, the Bengal is a great option for those with allergies to cats.

What colour is the coat of a Bengal Cat?

The Bengal cat breed comes in different colours and patterns. Some Bengals almost have a coat colour that has a shimmer in the light. The three main colours are brown, silver and three snow colours. These snow colours are Seal Mink Point, Seal Lynx and Seal Sepia.

What are the most common coat patterns for the Bengal Cat?

There are a number of patterns that the Bengal can come in. The two main patterns, though, are spotted and marble.

How much grooming does a Bengal Cat need?

Bengal cats shed a lot less than most cat breeds would, and they're often in the 'least shedding' category of cat breeds. You won't find cat hair everywhere when you own a Bengal!

However, it's always good to try and maintain some grooming of your cat. A brush every week should suffice with this breed.

What is the temperament & personality of a Bengal Cat?

The Bengal is known for its loving temperament and personality. They're quite an intelligent breed, so they love to learn. Having some brain-challenging toys would be beneficial for your Bengal.

With a powerful physique comes a great level of energy. You may also find that this domestic cat has a mischievous side too!

What are the living needs of a Bengal Cat?

For these domesticated cats, they're happier to be near you. They don't mind the environment they live in, as long as they are side by side with you. However, it's important that the cats in your home have a lot to do and climb on.

Just like their wild cat ancestors, the Asian leopard cats, it's good for them to keep active and entertained. Make sure to provide plenty of toys, and spending time with them is important.

What are the habits & activity levels of a Bengal Cat?

What sort of habits does a Bengal breed have? Do they have low activity levels or high levels of energy?

Common habits

Bengals love playtime, but they also enjoy high places where they can hang out on their own. They're not lap cats, but there are always some exceptions to that rule. You'll find them enjoying their daily life as long as there is play, attention and places to climb.

Activity levels

Activity levels can vary from one domestic cat to another. With the Bengal, expect there to be some high-level energy that needs burning off daily. The Bengal is a curious and alert cat, so you can expect them to be up and about for a lot of the time.

Are Bengal Cat vocal?

Bengal cats rarely vocalise, other than when they're in heat. If you don't want domestic cats that will be loud or irritating, then the Bengal is perfect for you.

How big are Bengal Cat?

There are a couple of slight differences between a female Bengal cat and a male. This might not be that important, but it's worth knowing if you're considering this breed.

How much do Bengal Cat weigh?

A female is likely to reach the height of 28 to 36cm, whereas a fully developed male would reach 33 to 38cm.

What is the height of Bengal Cat?

Your Bengal should weigh between 3.6 to 6.8kg if male and 3.6 to 5.9kg if female.

What size is the Bengal Cat?

The Bengal is a medium-sized cat, and due to its slim physique, it's unlikely to fall into the category of large cats.

Can you train a Bengal Cat?

Whilst all cats can have some form of training, there are only a handful of breeds that are highly intelligent. The Bengal is certainly one. The breed is much like a dog in that it will pick up quite a few tricks, especially if you're teaching Bengal kittens.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Bengal Cat?

Of course, all cats can encounter various health issues in their life. Bengals can suffer from eye problems like glaucoma, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Bengals, like all cats, are also prone to bacterial and viral infections like calicivirus and rhinotracheitis.

For the Bengal, aside from the generic cat health issues, they're a fairly healthy breed.

How long does a Bengal Cat live for?

With Bengal cats being relatively healthy as a domestic breed, you can expect this breed to live anywhere between 12-16 years. That's at least a decade with them!

What diet should you give a Bengal Cat?

Feeding a cat properly can help contribute to its overall well-being. For Bengal health, they have a pretty healthy immune system already. They're an active cat, so they'll be keeping their body in good shape on a daily basis.

Just like any other carnivores, they love food that's high in protein. Think chicken, beef, fish, lamb and turkey. Cats are going to benefit from these foods, so even if you're a veggie or vegan household, make the exception for your feline friends. It's important that they get these proteins in their body.

How much does a Bengal Cat cost in Australia?

It's always good to go with a trusted breeder when it comes to this type. Make sure you're checking the breed history of the breeder themselves. There are concerns that more domestic breeding occurs with wild cats, which can influence the feral side of this breed.

For a Bengal cat, you can expect to pay anything from $1,000 up to a staggering $2,500 for a show-quality one.