Cats that are brown with black spots belong to a breed known as the Bengal cat. The Bengal cat is a relatively new breed that was developed by crossing small Asian leopard cats with domestic cats. This crossbreeding allows the Bengal cat to have the exotic look of leopard spots and markings while still maintaining a domestic temperament. Bengal cats are known for being active, intelligent and highly energetic cats that thrive when given lots of playtime and environmental enrichment.
Origins of the Bengal Cat Breed
The Bengal cat was first developed in the 1970s by Jean Sugden Mill of California. Mill had a strong interest in wild cats and owned several Asian leopard cats. She wanted to try crossing the wild cats with domestic cats to create a new breed that had a more exotic look while still being suitable as pets. After several generations of breeding, Mill succeeded in developing early Bengal cats by breeding Asian leopard cats with Egyptian Maus, Abyssinians, and domestic shorthairs.
The first few generations of Bengal cats were crossed back to Asian leopard cats to continue introducing their genes. By the fourth generation, breeders began breeding the Bengals to each other. This allowed them to create a breed with a docile domestic temperament that consistently inherited the desired Bengal markings and spots.
The Bengal cat achieved full recognition as an official registered cat breed by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1983. Since then, Bengal breeders have worked to expand the diversity of patterns and colors in Bengals while maintaining health and good temperament.
Appearance of Bengal Cats
The most distinctive feature of Bengal cats are their thick, vividly patterned coats. Bengals have a short, dense coat that can feature rosette, arrowhead, or blotchy spots. The spots are generally darker than the background coat color. The most common colors are golden brown, silver, and black, but Bengals also come in snow (white), blue, and other colors.
Other features that give Bengals their wild cat look include:
- Bold mascara-like markings around the eyes
- Bright white belly and chest
- High cheekbones
- Muscular bodies
- Long, tapered tail with rings
- Large oval eyes
- Small, rounded ears
While their exotic coat is a major feature, Bengal cats have a look that is more foreign than fragile. They have medium to large athletic bodies ranging from 10-15 pounds when fully grown. Their basic physical features are those of a domestic cat, but with a very unique spotted or marbled coat.
Personality and Temperament
Although they look wild, Bengal cats were bred to have a friendly domestic temperament. However, they tend to be more active, vocal and demanding of attention than typical house cats. Here are some of the most notable personality traits of the Bengal breed:
- Intelligent – Bengals are exceptionally smart and quick to learn tricks or how to operate puzzle toys.
- Curious – Their curious nature means they love to explore, investigate new objects, and climb up high.
- Energetic – Bengal cats are very agile and active. They love to run, jump, and play.
- Affectionate – While independent at times, most Bengals form a close bond with their owners.
- Demanding – Bengals thrive on interaction and tend to be vocal when wanting attention.
- Adventurous – A Bengal will often follow owners around the house and enjoy being involved in activities.
Many Bengal cat owners describe living with these cats as much more like having a dog or monkey than a regular house cat. While challenging at times, their energetic and inquisitive nature also makes them fun loving companions when provided proper care.
Activity Level
Bengal cats have energy levels on the higher end of the spectrum for domestic cats. A Bengal kitten or young adult can seem in perpetual motion, running and leaping through the house without end. Even adult Bengals tend to retain a significant amount of energetic kitten-like behavior compared to other breeds.
Here are some key facts about the activity needs of Bengal cats:
- Require at least 60-90 minutes per day of active play and exercise.
- Enjoy having cat trees, tunnels,scratching posts, cat wheels, and puzzle feeders.
- Need opportunities to run and jump or they may get into trouble.
- Love food puzzle toys that make them “hunt” for meals.
- Should have regular play sessions with interactive cat toys.
Bengals are best suited for active households that can keep up with their needs for frequent play and environmental enrichment. They can become bored or destructive if left alone for long periods without stimulation.
Bengal Cat Care
While exotically patterned, Bengal cats have similar basic care needs as other domestic cat breeds. Here is a summary of important care guidelines for Bengal cat owners:
Diet
Bengals have no special dietary needs. Feed a high quality commercial cat food and avoid overfeeding as Bengals are energetic and prone to obesity if not properly exercised.
Grooming
Bengals have a short, sleek coat that only requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair. Trim nails as needed.
Health
Bengal cats tend to have excellent health, especially when purchased from a reputable breeder. Some potential health issues to be aware of include heart disease, cancer, and joint problems.
Litter Box
Provide at least one litter box per cat plus an extra. Scoop daily and clean boxes thoroughly each week. Use unscented clumping litter.
Socialization
Bengal kittens should be gradually introduced to new people, pets, places, and handling. Exposing them to a wide range of experiences helps them become confident, friendly cats.
Finding a Bengal Cat
Bengal cats and kittens can often be found for sale from breeders in many areas. Here are some tips for finding a Bengal breeder:
- Search for local Bengal cat breeder clubs and associations.
- Visit a TICA cat show to meet breeders and cats in person.
- Check listings from breeder websites and kitten finder services.
- Expect to pay $800-$1500+ for a Bengal kitten from a reputable breeder.
When selecting a breeder, be sure to choose one that health tests their breeding cats and provides vet records, health guarantees, and general health and genetic counseling. Seeing the kitten with its mother and litter mates can offer helpful insight as well.
Adopting a Bengal Cat
In addition to breeders, Bengal cats can sometimes be adopted from rescue organizations and shelters. Here are some tips for adopting a Bengal:
- Search Petfinder listings for Bengal cat rescues nationwide.
- Contact local breed-specific Bengal cat rescues.
- Ask shelters if they have any Bengal cats or mixes available.
- Be ready to provide lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Expect to pay $50-$500+ adoption donation for a Bengal.
When adopting an adult Bengal, try to learn about its history and past home environment if possible. This can help you better understand its needs and personality.
Should You Get a Bengal Cat?
Before deciding to get a Bengal cat, make sure you fully consider both the positives and challenges of sharing your home with one of these exotic felines:
| Potential Pros | Potential Challenges |
|---|---|
| Beautiful and unique appearance | Require a lot of interactive playtime |
| Fun, affectionate personality | Prone to mischief when bored |
| Very intelligent and trainable | Need space to run and climb |
| Bonds strongly with owners | May have loud voice and be talkative |
| Full of energy and spirit | Can be destructive if not exercised |
Bengal cats can make wonderful pets for owners who are able to meet their high activity needs and interact with them frequently. Their exotic beauty and playful nature can provide years of companionship and fun. However, they require more time, effort, and environmental enrichment than the average house cat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Bengal cats get?
Bengal cats typically grow to 10-15 pounds for males and 8-12 pounds for females. They have a medium to large athletic build.
Are Bengal cats hypoallergenic?
No, Bengal cats are not hypoallergenic. While some individuals with allergies report tolerating them better than other breeds, Bengals can still trigger allergies.
Do Bengal cats shed?
Yes, Bengal cats do shed. They have a short, fine coat that requires weekly brushing and will shed seasonally.
Are Bengal cats good pets?
Bengals can make excellent pets for owners able to meet their high exercise needs. Their energetic, affectionate nature makes them entertaining companions but they require extensive playtime and environmental enrichment.
Do Bengal cats need a companion?
Bengals are highly social and most enjoy having a feline companion to play and interact with. Another cat can provide enrichment when owners are away.
Conclusion
Bengal cats are a unique breed renowned for their exotic spotted coats but bred to have a friendly domestic temperament. While high maintenance compared to some cats, Bengals reward their owners with an outgoing, fun-loving personality. Their distinctive appearance coupled with their energetic and affectionate nature makes them interesting companions for cat lovers able to keep them actively engaged with daily exercise, playtime, and environmental enrichment.
