Bengal cats have a similar appearance to their wild counterparts but are domestic cats in terms of size and temperament. They are very adorable and can be safely kept in households, unlike larger, exotic cats.
Bengal cats are a hybrid of domestic cats and Asian leopard cats. Early hybrid cat ownership may be prohibited in your state as exotic animals. The ancestors of registered Bengal cats lived in the wild at least four generations ago. Fifth generation and later hybrids are frequently approved, but you should always check your neighborhood’s regulations before bringing one inside.
Whether you already have a Bengal cat or are considering obtaining one, learn some fascinating details about this domesticated cat that seems wild while ogling at some adorable images.
- The History of Bengal Cats Is Interesting
Bengal cats originated in America and haven’t been around for very long given their wild past.
In the 1960s and 1970s, pediatrician Dr. Willard Centerwall began mating domestic cats with Asian leopard cats to study their genetics. His research showed that they were immune to the feline leukemia virus, and he expected that one day this work might be applied to humans with compromised immune systems.
After becoming critically ill, Centerwall offered Jean Sudgen Mill his hybrid kittens. She had experimented with mating domestic cats and exotic cats in the early 1960s, but after her husband passed away, she gave up breeding.
After Centerwall’s hybrid kittens were delivered, Mill persevered in mating the cats and developing the newly developed breed. In honor of the scientific name for the Asian leopard cat, Prionailurus bengalensis, the animal’s name was changed from “leopardette” to “Bengal.”
Finally, Mill was able to convince The International Cat Association to recognize the Bengal in 1983.
2. Bengal Cats Are Known for Having a Distinctive Appearance
Since they resemble little jungle cats, Bengals’ look is probably what makes them most well-known.
Bengal cats have short, silky coats with an iridescent sheen that, depending on how the light hits it, may appear to glitter.
They may have the most distinctive marks, which are eye-catching and recognizable. Generally speaking, their coats can be speckled or marbled with lengthy, rather wavy stripes like to those found in marble stone (like a cheetah). Bengals often have black or brown coats, although they can also have silver, charcoal, or even blue coats.
- Bengal Cats Have a Lot of Activity
Despite the fact that Bengal cats have made up the majority of the wildcat population, owners claim that their cats are unusually energetic, vocal, and intelligent. If all you want is a cat that likes to lounge around in the sun, a Bengal cat is probably not the perfect pet for you.
- Bengals could become very enormous.
Although not as heavy as a Maine Coon, a Bengal cat can get rather huge. Female Bengal cats normally weigh 8 to 10 pounds, while male Bengal cats weigh 10 to 15 pounds.
There are a few exceptions, though: Larger-framed male Bengal cats can weigh up to 22 pounds.
- Bengal cats exhibit predatory instincts
Due to their intense hunting instinct, Bengal cats should not be around bunnies, hamsters, mice, or other small creatures.
If you’re allergic to blood or simply don’t want to periodically wake up to a dead mouse or bird, a Bengal cat might not be the right cat for you.
- Bengal Cats Can Be Very Expensive
If you want a Bengal cat, you better start saving your money right away because they may be quite pricey.
If you’re trying to find a Bengal cat that isn’t in a show, you’ll probably have to spend a few hundred dollars. However, if you’re searching for a Bengal that would be good for a show, the price can go up to thousands of dollars. According to the Bengal Cat Club, prices depend on location, breeder, gender, quality, and generational separation from Asian leopard cats. While a Bengal cat is said to have cost a British woman $50,000, one of the highest prices mentioned is $10,000.
- Bengals Create a Spin-Off Breed Called the Cheetoh
In 2001, the Bengal-Ocicat cross popularly known as the “Cheetoh” made its debut in the US. Originally, they were produced by a woman by the name of Carol Drymon with the goal of establishing a separate lineage, and she was successful in doing so.
The Cheetoh is a little cheetah that resembles a domestic cat in terms of size, behavior, and appearance.
FAQ
- How much a Bengal cat costs
Bengal kitten costs can range from $150 to $3000 depending on location.
- How can you tell whether your cat is part Bengal?
There are various methods to determine if your cat is a Bengal mix besides genetic testing. Start by examining the hues and patterns on your cat’s coat. Do they possess rosettes or spots? Do you see their tummies? Do they have any white fur anywhere on their body? Are the tips of their fur a little shimmery? All of these point to a Bengal. Next, look to determine if your cat has a lean, muscular build. No excess weight? Does it have a big head and a long body? Lastly, how does your cat act? Is it vocal? Are they chirping? a great deal of energy? Bengals possess each of these qualities.
- How long is the lifespan of a Bengal cat?
Bengal cats live between 12 and 16 years on average.
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