Although Bengal cats may have a wild appearance, they have a domestic personality and size. Additionally, they also look cute, and compared to bigger, exotic cats, this breed can stay at your home safely.
Bengal cats are an amalgam of Asian leopard cats and domestic cats. The early-generation hybrids are considered exotic cats and owning one might be prohibited in your state.
When it comes to registered Bengal cats, they are four generations away from their wild ancestors. Furthermore, Bengal cats of the fifth generation and beyond are allowed in most places. However, you must verify your local laws before getting one.
Whether you are considering to be a Bengal cat parent or are already one, then here are some surprising facts about this wild-looking yet domesticated cat.
Bengal Cats Are Popular for Their Distinct Features
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Ultimately, one of the best features of Bengals is their unique appearance, after all, they have a resemblance to those tiny jungle cats.
The coats of Bengals are short and smooth and have a multi-colored effect. If a Bengal cat’s coat catches light, you can see that it looks glittery. The most well-known characteristic of Bengal cats is likely their striking, unique markings.
Typically, they have spotted coats, which is the same as a cheetah. Or they can have marbled coats with lengthy wiggly stripes like a marble stone. Although most Bengals come in brown and black, their coats can vary, from charcoal to silver as well as blue.
Bengal Cats Have a Fascinating Origin
Bengal cats originated in America and with their wild ancestry, it seems that they haven’t existed that long.
It was during the 1960s and 70s, when Dr. Willard Centerwall, a pediatrician started breeding domestic cats with Asian leopard cats to study their genetics. Based on his work, he discovered that they are invulnerable to the feline leukemia virus. He was hoping that through his research he could help those who have compromised immune systems.
Eventually, Centerwall got seriously ill, so he decided to give his hybrid cats to Jean Sudgen Mill. During the early part of the 1960s, Mill also had some experiments with crossbreeding domestic cats and exotic cats. However, when her husband died, she took a break from her experiments.
When Centerwall gave the hybrids to Mill, she continued to breed the cats and boost the newly developed kitties. Originally, she named these hybrids “leopardette.” However, it was later changed to Bengal, which is taken from the Prionailurus bengalensis, which is the scientific name of the Asian leopard cat.
After several years of hard work, Mill’s work finally paid off. At last, in 1983, the Bengal was accepted by The International Cat Association.
Bengal Cats Are Extremely Active
Although Bengal kitties are bred from wildcats, some of their owners reveal that they are highly intelligent, vocal, and very active. Hence, if you want a cat that simply wants to curl up and relax in a sunny spot, then Bengals might not be the best pet for you.
Bengal Cats Can Be Predators
Another distinct feature of Bengal cats is their strong predatory instinct. So, be sure to keep those small pets, such as mice, hamsters, and bunnies, away from them. If you are a queasy kind of person, then a Bengal cat might not be the best pet for you.
Bengals Can Be Big
Although Bengals are not as heavy as Maine Coon cats, however, they can get quite large. On average, the weight of a male Bengal cat is between 10 and 15 pounds, while the weight of a female Bengal cat is between 8 and 10 pounds. However, there are some exceptions, the weight of bigger male Bengal cats could go as high as 20 to 22 pounds.
Bengal Cats Are Quite Costly
If you are interested in purchasing a Bengal cat, then you should start saving some money since you will need some serious cash.
A non-show Bengal cat would probably cost a few hundred dollars. However, if you are looking for a show-quality Bengal cat, then it could cost you thousands of dollars.
According to the Bengal Cat Club, their prices will likely depend on several factors including the generation taken away from the Asian leopard cat, their quality, gender, breeder, as well as their location. They reveal that one of the most expensive one costs $10,000. Although there are claims, that a British woman bought a Bengal cat for $50,000.
Bengals Have an Associated Breed Known as Cheetoh
Cheetoh is a combination of Ocicat and Bengal. It was in 2001 when this breed was introduced in the United States. Carol Drymon was the one who originally bred them, hoping that she could develop a distinct pedigree, and luckily, she accomplished her goal.
A Cheetoh cat has the same appearance as a tiny cheetah, however, their temperament, personality, and size have a resemblance to a domestic cat.
FAQs About Bengal Cats
How Do I Tell If a Cat Is a Bengal Mix?
Aside from having genetic testing, there are numerous ways of determining whether a cat is a Bengal mix. The first thing to do is to verify the markings and coat colors of the cat. Can you see any rosettes or spots? Are there any spots on their bellies? Can you see any white fur on their bodies? Do the ends of their fur look shimmering?
All of these are indications that your cat is a Bengal. The next thing to check is the physique of the kitty. Does it have a lean and muscular body? Does the cat have a small head and a long body? Is the cat not overweight?
Lastly, how does the kitty behave? Is it extremely full of energy? Do you see it chirp? Is the cat vocal? Take note that all of these are the distinct traits of Bengal cats.
How Much Do Bengals Cost?
Since Bengals are purebred, it is expected that they can be extremely expensive. As we’ve mentioned above, there are several factors that can affect its price.
But most likely the price range of a Bengal cat is between $1,500 to $3,000, depending on your location. Additionally, it is important to look for a professional breeder. Be sure to look for reputable Bengal Cat breeders and do a lot of research to guarantee that you are purchasing from an ethical breeder.
How Many Years Can a Bengal Cat Live?
Most likely, the life expectancy of Bengal cats is between 12 to 16 years.
Are Bengals High-Maintenance Breeds?
Absolutely! Bengal cats are well-known for being an extremely high-maintenance breed. In other words, you must provide them with more attention, affection, and playtime. Bengals make strong connections with their parents and are always longing for your company. Since they are extremely intelligent, be sure to keep them stimulated physically and mentally.
Finding A Reputable Bengal cat Breeder
Be sure to choose a reputable breeder that abides by ethical breeding practices.
Lone Star Bengal Cats is the best place to find those cute Bengal kitties. Contact us at 817-602-4807 or email us at marla@lonestarbengals.com for more information.
