Information on a Bengal Cat

The Bengal cat breed that is registered today with The International Cat Association, or TICA, had its start in 1963 when a domesticated cat was bred with an Asian leopard cat. For the next 20 years, the offspring of that litter were bred to create a hybrid cat that led to the first Bengal cat litter that was born in the 1980s.

  1. Features

    • The Bengal cat has a very dramatic appearance with a short coat that offers clear and distinct rosettes and spots similar to that of a leopard or jaguar. Some Bengal cats may have more of a marbled pattern, though the spots will still be quite prominent throughout the body as well. Bengal cats are larger than most domesticated cats, with some of the male cats weighing more than 15 pounds.

    Socialization

    • Bengal cats are typically very social, always wanting to be with their owners and family. They are usually very good with other pets, provided they are introduced to those pets early in their life.

    Personality

    • The Bengal cat breed is considered to be very affectionate, enjoying the companionship of their owners and family. They are active cats that enjoy being on the go and can be quite rambunctious when in full "play" mode.

    Considerations

    • Bengal cats love to climb and explore their environment, often spending hours jumping from perch to perch and never touching the floor. To keep your Bengal and your belongings safe, you will need to "Bengal" proof your home to ensure nothing gets broken while they are climbing, playing, and exploring.

    Fun Fact

    • Unlike most domesticated cats, many Bengal cats love water and enjoy splashing through puddles or even joining you in the bathtub or shower.

    Warning

    • If you don't like a house cat to jump frequently from the floor, then a Bengal is probably not the right cat for you.