Although they might look like they’re ready to prowl through the jungle, a Bengal cat is more about prowling into your lap - and your heart. These loving, friendly, affectionate cats make beautiful pets who get along well with all family members, including children, dogs, and other cats. Intelligent and active, busy Bengals love nothing more than climbing, jumping and hanging with their favourite humans - they thrive on human companionship.
Bengal Facts
Bengal cats were originally bred from domestic cats and Asian leopard cats. Although they still have their tell-tale wild cat coats, these gentle, affectionate cats are beautiful inside as well as out.
- Breed: Bengal
- Height: 20-25cm
- Weight: 3.5-7kg
- Life Span: 9-15 years
- Coat: Short, smooth
- Colour: silver or dark brown
What Does a Bengal Look Like?
With their boldly patterned coats, a Bengal looks like a wild jungle cat - and they’re the only domestic cat breed that does. This is thanks to their rosette markings (the dark marks on their coats that look like roses) which reflect their wild Asian leopard heritage. Not all Bengal cats have rosette markings. Some have spotted or marbled coats, which are equally beautiful.
Bengal cats’ coats are dense, short and super soft to touch, like rabbits’ fur. They come in a range of colours, including brown, silver and white. A Bengal’s eye colour can be brown, yellow, orange or green.
Weighing about the same as other cats, they’re slightly larger due to their long, muscular bodies and lengthy legs.
Bengal
Bengal Temperament: Soft and Sweet
Wild looks on the outside, gentle and affectionate on the inside. Bengal cats are very sweet and friendly and they bond strongly to their humans. They may even have a favourite. Bengals get on well with children, other cats, and even dogs. But you do need to introduce them to other family members when they’re still young. An older Bengal that’s used to things their way won’t take kindly to new people and pets.
Social cats, Bengals are happiest when they’re near their humans. If you’re away from home a lot, you might need to think about getting another cat to keep your Bengal company.
Known for being intelligent and curious, Bengals love nothing more than a good play session. Stock up on the cat toys and even a shallow tub - Bengals love water play too and will happily splash around. You can even teach a Bengal tricks or how to walk on a lead so you can enjoy outdoor adventures together.
Although not known for miaowing constantly, Bengals can be chatty cats who are keen to let you know what they need, whether that’s food, play time or pats. Expect to be warmly greeted when you return home after work. Bengals aren’t couch potatoes but they do love a warm lap to curl up in once play time is done.
Keeping Bengal Cats Healthy: 3 Issues to Watch Out For
Active, athletic cats, Bengals are normally healthy although there are a few health conditions to be aware of.
Heart Problems
Bengal cats, especially older ones, can be prone to developing heart disease, also called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It can cause the heart muscle to thicken, resulting in blood clots, heart failure and a shorter lifespan.
Eye Issues
Bengals are at risk of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This condition eventually leads to blindness and there’s currently no treatment or cure. However, most cats adapt well to blindness and continue to lead happy lives.
Anaesthetic Allergies
Bengals can be allergic to anaesthetics and a reaction to anaesthetics can be fatal. Careful monitoring during surgery (including neutering and spaying) can help avoid a reaction.
Caring for Your Bengal Cat
Grooming a Bengal is a breeze. Instead, you’ll be spending plenty of time keeping them physically and mentally active.
Grooming
To keep a Bengal looking their best, give them a brush once a week. That’s all their gorgeous coat needs. As water babies, they might enjoy the occasional bath.
Otherwise, their grooming needs are the same as any other cat’s: regular claw trimming, occasional ear cleaning, and daily toothbrushing. Finally, keep their litter box clean and sweet smelling.
Nutrition
Exercise and play time
Keeping a Bengal cat physically and mentally engaged is the key to having a happy Bengal cat. This starts with ensuring there are plenty of things for this lengthy, leggy cat to climb. Invest in a cat tree and plenty of toys. Super agile cats and great climbers, Bengals will explore every area of your home, including high up shelves.
With their breeding from wild big cats, Bengals have a high prey drive and love to watch birds from the safety of home. Expect to hear them chittering and chattering if some get too near. You could invest in a wall-mounted bed or hammock for a prime viewing spot.
Keep your Bengal mentally stimulated by introducing them as a kitten to other people and pets. A lead and harness for outdoor adventures is a good idea. Thanks to their smarts, Bengals need a wide range of experiences to keep them engaged enrichment toys will help keep their minds stimulated.
Litter training your Bengal
It is usually easy to train a Bengal to use a litter tray as they will respond best to positive reinforcement. Read our blog: Cat litter tips from our cat fanatic for tips and advice on litter and litter training.
Use a quality litter and keep the litter tray spotlessly clean. Cats are very particular about bathroom hygiene, and a clean litter box will help to keep the coat clean as well. Speaking of litter boxes, ensure to get a litter box that fits your cat to ensure they have plenty of room to turn around and squat.