Bengal cats are distinguished by their exotic appearance of looking like a small leopard. They have a plush coat that frequently features rosettes in various tones of brown, such as patches that are rust, chocolate brown, black, or any other hue. They can have coats that are golden, rusty, brown, orange, sand, or ivory, among other colors. Some Bengal cats have fur that glitters like they've been powdered with dazzle in the light.
Bengal cats have prominent face markings, tiny, rounded heads, and huge eyes. Similar to their Asian Leopard ancestors, they have lean, muscular bodies and a sleek appearance. Their stride is strong but graceful since their back legs are longer than their front legs.
This breed needs a family who can provide entertainment and enrichment because they are so energetic and active. Failure to do so may result in behavioral issues brought on by energy overload.
This species is incredibly intelligent and can be taught to open cupboards, turn lights on and off, and perform tricks with ease.
Bengal Cat Ancestors
The first documentation of this breed was created through crossbreeding a Domestic Shorthair with a wild cat, Asian Leopard in 1963 by a California-based breeder named Jean Mill.
Asian leopard cats are wild cats that are comparable in size to domestic cats and can be found all over Asia. As you'll see, Bengal cats appear to share many traits with the Asian Leopard, including their distinguishing markings, vivacious personalities, and enjoyment of playing in the water.
The reason for this crossbreeding was an effort to pass their immunity to the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) which is one of the most common infectious diseases found in cats. In doing this, they created Bengal cats, a hybrid offspring.
Since Bengal cats may now breed with each other, wild cats are no longer necessary to create offspring of the breed.
Size of Bengal cats
Bengal cats often range in size from medium to large. They could weigh 8 to 15 pounds or more, and their height could be between 13 and 16 inches tall. These are, of course, generalizations, and every Bengal cat is unique and could be different.
Bengal Lifespan
Bengals have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
Bengal Cat Temperament
The environment and experiences that a cat has a great deal to do with their personality. Bengal cats, on the other hand, exhibit some traits that are a result of their wildcat ancestry. For example, they are often extremely clever, active, self-assured, and always vigilant—just as they would need to be to thrive in the jungle!
Bengals as Pets
Bengal cats can be both a pleasant and difficult pet due to their high level of energy and demand for companionship. Active individuals who have the time and desire to interact with them frequently may find them to be a suitable fit. These cats are noted for learning tricks rapidly and enjoy games like fetch and chase.
Bengal cats can become bored and frustrated if they are not given enough stimulation, which can result in undesirable behaviors. For example, they may overly meow or scratch at the furniture for attention.
They also have incredibly nimble paws, so you might discover that your Bengal cat has taken out all of your pots and pans from the kitchen cupboards or gone into your drawers and made a mess of your clothes.
Bengal Cats and Water
Bengal cats are totally enamored with water, just like Asian Leopard Cats. Don’t be shocked if your Bengal cat leaps into the tub or follows you into the shower without hesitation. In order to keep your Bengal cat entertained, you may wish to get a pet fountain.
Bear in mind that Bengal cats can be dangerous near aquarium fish due to their love of water. These cats won't be deterred from dropping their paws into the aquarium to scoop out a fishy companion to play with or eat on by the thought of getting wet. Additionally, Bengal cats have a strong desire to hunt, so make sure to keep tiny animals like hamsters or rabbits out of harm's way.
Fun Facts
There are many interesting things to know about Bengal cats besides the fact that they enjoy the water. The following are a some of the more intriguing ones:
- Bengal cats were once known as Safari Cats until the 1970s, when their name was changed to Prionailurus bengalensis, to more accurately reflect the scientific name of the Asian Leopard cat.
- Because of their wildcat appearance, they have become valued as pets over the years. In fact, a woman in London is said to have paid $50,000 for her Bengal cat. They were given the moniker "Rolls Royce of cats" as a result.
- Bengal cats are hypoallergenic, which means that they are less prone to cause an allergic reaction than other cats.
- Bengal cats don't meow like other cats do. They create a raspy sound that sometimes resembles a bark.
- These cats can easily turn light switches on and off thanks to their nimble paws.