The Bengal Cat

The Bengal cat is a cross between the domestic cat and the Asian leopard cat which is commonly refered to as the "ALC". Crosses between domestic cats and wild cats have occured for centuries, but in the case of the Bengal, the breed and official breed standard were not adopted until the late 1980's. The Bengal cats commonly kept as pets are several generations removed from the ALC and can make pleasant companions, but this is not a fully domesticated breed and first time cat owners might consider a more predictable option.

 Cool Cat Facts... 
The Asian wild cat has been crossed with house cats for centuries in attempts to create a domestic cat with the look of a leopard or tiger. The gorgeous Bengal, newly developed in the late 1980's, is a fine result.                                                                   

Is A Bengal Cat Right For You?

The Bengal cat is not recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. but it is gaining in popularity among pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breeds. Often quite large and retaining a wild look that is stunningly attractive, the Bengal can make a fine pet in the right environment, but requires lots of stimulation and, ideally, room to roam. A secure cat pen outdoors would be greatly appreciated by this often prey-driven cat. The oportunity to stalk about in a natural setting can help with boredom. Bengals can have a very dog-like personality and enjoy learning tricks, playing fetch and walking on a leash. Shedding may be high and regular grooming is desired. These are sturdy large-sized cats that have few breed-related health issues. Because they are a very active domestic/wild hybrid, the Bengal may not be suitable for a family with children or additional pets.

Bengal Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head should be a broad modified wedge with rounded contours. Longer than it is wide and slightly small in proportion to body size. Profile: Gently curving forehead to bridge. The nose is large and wide with fullness to the nose leather and a bridge that extends above the eyes for a distinctive look. The muzzle is full and broad with thick whiskers and high, angular cheekbones. The ears are medium to large in size, tapered and set high on the head. in size Height: Medium to medium-short, allowance to be made for larger appearing ears on kittens up to 12 months. Base: Wide in proportion to height. Lynx type tufts on the ears are not desirable. The eyes are large and deep-set, slightly oval in shape. Eyes may be any color.
Body and Tail: The neck is thick and muscular, large in proportion to head. The body is long, powerful and muscular, medium to large in size. The legs are of medium length in proportion to the body, muscular and powerful with robust bone. The tail is thick and medium length with rounded tip. The feet are large and round with prominent knuckling and big-bones.
Coat: The coat is short, sleek and soft, often with an iridescent quality known as "glitter" which gives the cat a gorgeous sheen.
Pattern: The markings should contrast strongly with the base color and should be a spotted or rosette type pattern as apposed to the typical "tabby" pattern. The belly should be spotted as well, and pure white belly with no spots is not desirable.
Overall Appearance: This should be a very muscular and large cat with a distinctly unique look. The more wild and removed from the typical domestic cat in pattern and general appearance the better. High marks for muscularity and distinctive coat pattern.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

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