Take a walk on the wild side with this week’s Cat Breeds star: the Bengal. If you need a Bengal Cat Sitter in Melbourne, Perth, or any other Australian city, Mad Paws has just the ticket!
Quick Facts
Weight – 3.5 – 7kg
Lifespan – 14 – 16 years
Best breed for:
- Experienced Owners
- Owners with lots of time for play and exercise
- Large, spacious doors
Bengal Breed History ♜
For many years, breeders have been trying to find a way to recreate the beauty of wildcats with the demeanour of our friendly house companion cats. In the early 1960s, Jean S. Mill was able to accomplish just that by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat with a Domestic Shorthair. Breeding took off in the United States the 1980s, and the International Cat Association recognised the Bengal in 1991.
Today, Bengals have traveled the world and are popular pets in many different countries. Currently, Leopard Cats are no longer used in breeding programs for Bengals. In fact, most of these kitties are five generations removed from their wild forefathers.
Bengal Personality Traits and Trainability ★
One crucial thing to remember about Bengals is that they aren’t too far removed from their wild ancestors. They have a confident, curious, and assertive demeanour, and they’ll stop at nothing to explore that which catches their attention. Bengals also have a stronger hunting drive than their domestic cousins, so be ready to give them plenty of play.
You’ll often see Bengals walking around outside on a leash; that’s because they demand constant companionship and attention. These cats love humans and are not shy about showing their affection, either physically or vocally. In fact, this kitty has an impressive vocal range that it loves to share with the world.
Bengal Living Health and Grooming ✄
Bengals have a beautiful spotted short-haired glossy coat that won’t need too much grooming. That said, Bengals are so social that they tend to look forward to grooming time. Keep a brush handy for some bonding time.
While the Bengals is a healthy breed, it’s still important to adopt or obtain your cat from a responsible breeder. These cats are at a higher risk for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and may be more susceptible to feline infectious peritonitis. However, your vet will know to be on the lookout for these health risks in Bengals.
Fun Fact ♥
These felines love water! Unlike most domestic cats, Bengals will seek out and swim in pools, bathtubs, streams, and any puddle they come across.
