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The Scratching Post
Bengal
The Bengal is a relatively new hybrid breed of medium-sized cat. The face of the cat has a series of distinct horizontal stripes, known as mascara, which extends from alongside the eye to the back of the neck. The sides and top of the body are marked with rosette spots similar to those on the jaguar. The legs and tail consists of symmetrical stripes and the coat comes in several tabby colors. The body of this breed is long, muscular and solid. They have a long and muscular neck which is thick and large. The muzzle is full and broad with large whisker pads. The nose is large and wide and the eyes are oval and large. Eye color ranges from gold to green to aqua. The ears are relatively short, wide at the base and rounded at the tips. The luxurious coat is close-lying, thick and surprisingly soft and silky. The Bengal comes in two coat patterns: spotted and marbled.
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Temperament
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The Bengal cat is very high-energy, curious and intelligent. They love to be in the middle of whatever the human is engaged in as well as following them around the house. Though this breed is friendly, they are not considered "lap cats". Most Bengals prefer to be petted or played with without being held. They are loving, dependable cats who are very responsive to their human family. This breed forms strong bonds with their owners and become loving, faithful friends for life. They have no problems communicating and interacting with their humans and will make their feelings known. They love to have fun and assume you are on the same page. Bengals are extremely graceful, strong and agile. If you treasure your fragile knickknacks, this might not be the breed for you. Bengals also love the water, particularly if it's running. Some in this breed will dip their paws in water while others will take a romp in the shower or a swim in the bathtub with you. Some Bengals can be taught to eliminate in the toilet.
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Height, Weight
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Male Weight: 10-18 lbs. ; Female Weight: 7-12 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Bengals are a hardy and healthy cat with no known breed-related genetic problems. Make sure that you purchase your Bengal from a reputable breeder.
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Living Conditions
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This is a very active breed that needs a yard and plenty of room to run, hunt and play. Bengal kittens can be quite destructive so please prepare your furniture and home for its arrival. They need a variety of toys as well as a scratching post to decrease their destructive behavior.
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Exercise
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This breed loves to run, hunt and play with humans, cats and other animals.
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Life Expectancy
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12-15 years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed requires weekly brushing and combing.
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Origin
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This breed originated in 1963 when a female Asian Leopard Cat was bred with a black short-haired domestic male. A female of this litter (Kin Kin) was bred with her father and produced a litter of both plain and spotted kittens. The breed's name was taken from the Asian Leopard Cat's scientific name, Felis bengalensis and has no affiliation with the commonly known Bengal Tiger.
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