How to Select a Bengal

The Bengal is a newer breed of housecat which is essentially a cross between wild, forest-dwelling Asian Leopard Cats and domestic shorthairs.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat Collars
  • Cat Combs/brushes
  • Cat Toys
  • Cat Shampoos
  • Cat Litters
  • Cat Dishes
  • Cat Foods
  • Cat Fancy Magazine
  • Cat Carriers
  • Cat Beds
  • Cat Treats
  • Cat Scratchers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a responsible breeder who will guarantee that your Bengal is in good health and does not have Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLv) or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

    • 2

      Expect to pay between $500 and $600 for your Bengal - although top quality breeders and show cats can cost over $1,000.

    • 3

      Pick up and hold the cat or kitten to see if she has good muscle tone.

    • 4

      Make sure she's not sneezing or sniffling, that her eyes have no discharge and her ears are clean and pink inside.

    • 5

      Examine the cat's fur, which should be lush and silky. Bengals are known for their fur, which often has what's called "glitter," or gold flecks.

    • 6

      Watch out for bald patches or signs of dry or flaky skin, which could indicate an illness.

    • 7

      Check for fleas behind her ears and at the base of the tail. Flea dirt, which looks like black sand, is a sure sign.

    • 8

      Get a written sales agreement from the breeder that provides the breeder's health guarantee.

    • 9

      Take your Bengal to your own veterinarian as soon as possible to confirm that it's healthy.

    • 10

      Take a kitten home no younger than 12 weeks of age.