Domestic Bengal Cats
83An Adorable Litter of Bengals!
These Cats Can be Trained Like Dogs!
Have you Ever Seen a Cat do This?
Thinking about getting a new pet for the family, but can't decide between a cat or a dog? Perhaps you should adopt a Bengal! These beautiful felines are unique, and in some ways easier to care for than other domestic cats. Pure bred animals have the following traits:
- A love of water - some even will swim!
- Playfulness - they enjoy chasing balls, and running on wheels
- They can be trained to walk on leashes
- They can be trained to sit and do tricks
- Highly loyal
- "Talkative"
- Amazing jumping/balancing abilities
The Bengal breed is fully domesticated, although it was originally bred from a cross between an Asian Leopard Cat (a small, wild cat that lives in forests) and a "regular" domestic cat breed such as Abyssinian, American Shorthair, or Burmese. Now, only its markings are wild-looking. To be accepted for registration by the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA), The International Cat Association (TICA) or the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), a Bengal Cat must be at least four generations (F-4) away from its Asian Leopard Cat ancestor. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) considers Bengals to be "wild," however, and will not accept them for showing or registration.
Similarly, in the United Kingdom, it is currently unlawful to own one a Bengal under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976. The government is considering adopting regulations to lift the ban, however.
The Bengal breed was first "created" in 1963, but formal breeding programs did not start until the 1980s. It was formally recognized by TICA in 1984 as a registered breed.
Variations of the Breed
There are many beautiful types of Bengal Cats, which differ primarily based on their coat markings and color. In general, the cats are medium-sized and muscular, weighing anywhere from 10-18 pounds when full-grown. Bengals eat the same diet as other breeds, unless there are special health issues. Of course, they should be vaccinated as any other breed. Unless you plan to breed or show your feline, it should be spayed or neutered, as well.
Markings:
- Spotted The most desirable spots are two-toned (dark around the outside and lighter on the inside). These are found along the body of the animal, with striping usually on the legs and face
- Marbled As the name implies, stripes/marking on the coat are swirled around in a beautiful marbled pattern
- Glittered Glittering is not so much a mark, but a characteristic of the coat. In some cats, it looks as though gold dust has been scattered over the top. Obviously, these specimens are highly valued!
Colors:
- Brown (aka Gold)
- Seal Sepia
- Seal Mink
- Silver - Very rare; just recognized in 1994
- Blue (may occur, but not formally recognized by associations yet)
- Black (same as above)
- Cinnamon (same as above)
- Red (same as above)
Combining markings and colors, you can find the following Bengal variations eligible for competitions, among others: Brown Spotted Tabby, Brown Marbled Tabby, Seal Sepia Spotted Tabby, Seal Sepia Marbled Tabby, Seal Mink Spotted Tabby, Seal Mink Marbled Tabby, Seal Spotted Lynx Point and Seal Marbled Lynx Point.
Most versions of the breed are short-haired. However, you can now find a few long-haired Bengal Cats, as well. As with the colors that are not formally recognized, they simply make wonderful pets. Just do not plan on showing or breeding your Bengal.
Bengal Cat "Talks" to the Birds
Lots of Bengal Internet Resources
- Official Bengal Cat Website
- Bengal Cat Breeders
A resource of listed breeders from around the United States and the world, including available kittens! - Bengal Rescue Network
- Pets 4 You (Page on Bengal Kittens)
- International Bengal Cat Connection
- Bengal Cat Clubs and Associations
Where Can you Find a Bengal?
It is surprisingly easy to find a Bengal. We adopted one from a breeder in our relatively small Central Oregon city about 18 months ago. However, as with any pet, you need to do thorough research about the breeder and their operations and make sure that you are ready to bring an animal into your home. While its true that cats are relatively easy pets, you should be certain that you have the time, patience and finances to adequately care for your new family member. And find out now if anyone has allergies! Not after you bring a new kitten home!
A pure-bred Bengal Cat can be very expensive, particularly if you are seeking papers to show and/or breed the cat yourself. Prices can range from $700-2000, or more! However, in our case, the local breeder had several kittens that were a bit older (6 months old), whose markings did not "come out" for show. They were already fixed, and we got our "Romeo" for a bargain price of less than $100. You may also get lucky through a rescue organization, or even at your local Humane Society. Keep your eyes open for a Bengal!
Hungry Kitty!
Cat Breed Reading
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If you decide to adopt one of these special breeds, you should be pleasantly surprised. Even "non-cat lovers" have become converts to the Bengal breed. They are highly personable, relatively easy to train (who would say that about a cat), and have many great characteristics of a dog, but significantly less dependent!
Before you go to see a litter of Bengal kittens, or visit a cat you're considering bringing into your home, a word of warning. It will be hard to resist! The Bengal Cat is a unique, one-of-a-kind breed that will find quickly find a place in your heart (or in your shower in the morning!)
Its hard to find a more human-like feline companion! So, watch out dogs... before long the Bengals may become Man's Best Friend. Or at least give you a serious run for your money!
p.s. They generally get along great with dogs, too. Must be the common misperception of the breed that they are actually dog-like!
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I also recommend that you check out www.peachygreen.com for some great, interesting articles on wildlife and the environment! See you over there.
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Comments
Bengals are beautiful cats, but seem to be a handful. I have a hard enough time with my Ocicat :)
Thanks John! I will definitely check out the website (not that I EVER waste time - LOL!). Uninvited Writer, I would love to find out more about the Ocicat. I did research the Bengal breed before we got our cat a few years back. I'll bet they might be a handful together!
These cats are so beautiful. I love the photos.
Thanks Stacie - even our cat (a "reject") is really cool looking. We get comments all the time about him. He's a fun pet to have - and definitely acts like he's one of the dogs!
What amazing pictures Steph! I love them. I should not be allowed to read animal hubs because then I just want to go and add on to my already too numerous zoo.
Great hub regards Zsuzsy
Beutiful pictures, I love cats, but mainly had siamese both of mine were like dogs they would follow you around everywhere. People think you cannot train them. Wrong.. You sure can....and they train you too. ....very cunning and clever cats.
Great hub
Steph, what beauties! Great information too :)
Zsuzsy - I was almost thinking the same thing about making the hub! Oh no... I shouldn't be doing this!! These kitties are so dang cute! Thank you! Eileen, my first cat ever was part Siamese, and those cats are very smart and trainable too. Talkable, as well. I think that's why I like our Bengal so much. Amy Jane - thanks for your comments, as well. This was a fun one. Steph
Very interesting, Steph! They really are lovely. Do they tend to do well at cat shows?
Lovely loooking animals... I read in the uk a while back that someone had bred a "tiger cat". I am not sure what the make up of the "breed" was, but, as the name suggests they were bred with stripes!
Hi Kat, I'm not sure about cat shows. I imagine they would steal the show! Let me find out more... Gadzooks, these are not tiger cats, although the name implies such. They come from a heritage of an Asian Leopard Cat. There are other cross-breeds, as well though, including Ocicats, etc. Maybe I should write some more Hubs? :-)
Gorgeous pictures! I'm not much of a cat person, but the bengal is an attractive cat.Have you seen the tiger cat? I forget the actual name, but it was created by the daughter of the lady who created the bengal. It looks identical to a wild tiger, same ear shape, stripes, and everything. She selectively breed the pointed domestic cat ears to be rounded and whatnot. It's crazy. Difference is that the tiger marked cat is all domestic cat. Very selectively bred.
Hi Whitney - you might be a convert! They are really cool cats (no pun intended). I've got to go check out information on the tiger cat. That sounds very interesting - round ears! Wow!
Steph, these cats are gorgeous, but I don't see myself paying over a grand for them. I tried to do a quick search for a link, but couldn't find anything. I'll search again real quick. It would be a lot easier if I could remember their breed name.
TOYGER! That's it!
Here are a few links:
http://www.toygerbreed.com/about.htm
I couldn't find a pictures of the rounded ears. It may be something that the lady's till perfecting. I did see it in the Parade section of the paper; I saw a picture, too, but can't find one online.
Wait here: http://www.toygers.org/futhdlg1.jpg
Thanks so much! I did a search too - and I think I'm going to write a Hub about them. (I agree with the cost observation.... designer breeds! WOW!)
Haha yes that is the breed I was on about TOYGER's...
Stay tuned... hopefully tomorrow, a new Hub! :-)
Can't wait to see what you pull up and create about the Toyger.
Hey Steph, Very cool hub. I had no idea that there were cats like this. I love the spotted and marbled varities. Thanks so much for sharing! Cheers, Roland
Interesting to come across this as I just finished a commission painting for someone who has 2 of the Bengal cats. I'm going to direct her to your article because I know she would enjoy it. It's a beautifully written and presented article.
Hi A. Jill, I hope that your client or friend enjoys the article! Thank you!
Wow! I love cats. I had NO idea about this breed. I am in love with Bengal cats. Your Hub was sooo coooool! Thanks so much. I going to get one (well better talk to the wife...lol).
Daniel
Thanks Daniel - they are very cool cats! Even if your wife doesn't like cats, I think she'll like a Bengal! :-) Steph
What a beautiful breed these cats are. I want one!!
Hi Victel, Bengals are indeed beautiful and unique! They are wonderful pets.
Does anyone know someone who has a Bengal cat right now? That's AVAILABLE?
for Purchase.... or adoption?
I am new to this whole hubbing thing... and this was the first thing i pulled up...and ( So I am Very Excited!!!)...
thanks for anthing anyone can give me... i apologize for no photo... i have to wait til' my son comes home to help me w/ that! LOL i have no computer knowledge.
Kdesigns!!!
@kdesigns, depending on where you live, they are actually fairly easy to find. Our local Craig's List usually has Bengal cats or kittens available. You can find them through rescue operations too. Your best bet is to Google "Bengal" with the name of your city, county and/or state. I wish you the best of luck and enjoy your wonderful Bengal cat. They truly are amazing pets.
The pictures and videos are so cute. I like them but I don't like to keep cats with me.
Anyway, nice hub stephhicks68
Hi Dinesh, thank you! I agree that the Bengal cats are adorable. Some people think its even better to just enjoy the photos and videos without having to care for one. :)
Stephanie
Very precious breed. I love Bengal cats, though I've not had one myself. Of course, I love all cats. I just think that Bengals are incredibly adorable as kittens.
--Pat
Hi Pat - you know, as a Bengal cat owner, I have to agree with you (of course!) One of my best friends recently adopted a Bengal through a shelter - she is just a beautiful cat too. They are so personable and interactive. I think that's what makes this breed particularly special.
Very beautiful! I've never heard of them. I thought that I was in love with my Ragdolls - they might have competition now.
Hi Steph, my kitten Jimmy has the markings and temperament you describe. He even looks "gold-dusted." However, being a rescue kitty from a grass fire, I find it difficult to believe he could be a true Bengal.
I like to pretend, tho! Thanks for the fantastic hub and the fantasy inspiration!
Hi RGraf, yes, the Bengals are very beautiful, unique cats. I love Ragdolls too!
Mighty Mom - you may be surprised, your rescue kitty could definitely be a Bengal. My friend has one that she rescued. Sounds like you got a true "gem." :) Steph
Oh yes, -- Jimmy is a godsend. I will write a hub about him soon. The story behind him coming into our lives is really amazing!
I'm looking forward to it!! I love pet stories.
Hi Steph, when I saw the title of your Hub I thought . WOW, steph has actually tamed a 'tiger'. (you don't know if I'm joking or not do you? I can see that quizzical look on your face!)
Not being a cat person (I much prefer dogs) I must say that I would probably have a serious look at the 'bengal' as they do look like they would be my type of cat.(If I was going to have a cat that is!)
Well, that is hilarious!! Agvulpes, I do have a whip, so don't make me use it (no, I'm really just kidding, but I do threaten the kids from time to time). The Bengals are truly a great cat for a dog person - just ask my husband. Well, actually don't. He is much more upset about the time I spend on HubPages than the time I spend with the cat. LOL!!!
Yes Steph we had one of those imaginary whips, when our kids where growing up.
They turned into wooden spoons though! (the whips not the kids)!
For some strange reason the spoons kept disappearing?
LOL - that is so funny. (gee honey, where are all the wooden spoons???) HA!!
Steph the kids thought they might grow 'wooden spoon trees' !
That was their excuse anyway. wonder where they could have got that idea?
I have no idea?! Wooden spoon trees. Who would have known? Like when I was growing up, I was so afraid of soap apples....
soap apples....soap apples . You got me there?
Agapanthus got me. I did not know they were flowers until I got to about 10yrs old, always thought they were some garden monster, cos this nice garden down the street had a sign that read "beware of the agapanthus"
LOL - that is so funny! Beware of the Agapanthus! Soap apples.... you know. Those adorable mini soaps that are shaped like apples. But when you sass off to your mom, they fit perfectly into your mouth. Blech!! (it only took one time)
Do Bengals have just as much dander as regular house cats? Cause these are very beautiful cats but my mom isn't sure if shes allergic to the hair or the dander and since im living with her at the moment i have to think of her! I would love to get one cause they sound like the perfect cat for me since im more of a dog person. But my dog is getting kkind of old and not as energeic as she was when she was younger. My mother also says that if we did get a cat that it would have to be an indoor cat! So can bengals be indoor cats or do they have to be outdoor cats?
Hi Nessa - I will be honest - Bengals do not seem to be less allergenic than regular cats. My father-in-law is allergic and he still has issues over at our home. But Bengals are much like dogs -really! They love to play, and to be walked on leashes. Our Bengal kind of went nuts inside only, but I have another friend who adopted one and has done a great job keeping him inside only. I think the issue is that our kitten was allowed to go outside before we brought him home.
Hope this helps - the Bengal is a wonderful, unique pet!
We love our Bengals we have three. They are very playful and tough at the same time, very loving cats, with a flare people would never forget. My wife Linda has trained our Bengal, Bella Mia to walk on a leash. Great pets all away around. I high recommend this breed as one of the true adventures in the feline family.
John and Linda Merriman
Hi John and Linda - thanks for the great personal story about your Bengals. They have personality like no other cat breed, wouldn't you agree?
Steph
I have bengal and his name is cheetah... he is spotted brown/gold and very lovable. He doesn't like it when we're gone to long so if you plan on getting a bengal they would need a companion or take them with you because they hate being alone. I went to texas for a week and since cheetah has a mind of his own he would come to be for awhile, lol letting me know not to do that again...
And when there tired.... they love to go lay in the sun so if you have windows leave the curtain or shade open for them to lay in it. If they are really tired they may just want to curl up with you and lay somewhere on you... cheetahs favorite spot is near my side so he can lean against me... and when he stretches out I cover him up... its so cute..
Anyway... if you plan on getting one make sure you put the time in to love them up because they will need it.. and if you have kids... even better because they can play all day if you let them... lol
That is great! Bengals really are dog-like and enjoy companionship and attention. Cheetah sounds like a cool cat. :)
The HSUS has succeeded in having bengals banned in the state of Iowa, slipped in with a law that was supposed to ban true wild animals like tigers and bears. They'll be visiting a state near you soon.
That is depressing news! Bengals are not wild cats at all, but let's see what the government says, I guess.
Steph, great hub! I am a dog lover through and through, but I was introduced to Bengal cats about six months ago now and have been doing research ever since about adopting one. Thanks for all of these helpful websites, truly a big help!
Hi Ashley - thanks! If you love dogs, then the Bengal is the cat for you!! If you do adopt one, please let me know. Best of luck - and have fun with a new pet! Steph
i will be getting one soon!!!!!!!!!!!11
Wonderful hub on unique cats! :) I love any of the striped cats! Big or small. Good to know what breeds go well with dogs, as I would like to have a dog someday. I have two black beauties. (My kitty's). Thanks for the hub!
i really want one but i have to wait
John Chancellor says:
2 years ago
Steph,
Very interesting. I had never heard of this breed. I found this very interesting. Unfortunately everyone in the house is allergic to cats.
Since you are a cat lover and if you have some time to waste, you might want to check out the site www.icanhascheezburger.com It is a site with pictures of cats (mostly) in some very funny situations with extremely funny captions. It is worth a few minutes of browsing. But since there are thousands of pictures and content is being added daily, it can be addictive.