Detailed description of Bengal cat
Bengal cat is a medium to a large cat breed that bears resemblance to its feral cousins. Bengal cats are lean, muscular and strong in build and can be easily distinguished by their fur that is covered in rosettes or spots.
Genesis
Bengal cats were named after the Asian leopard cat's scientific name, from which they were originally bred. The first tries of crossing wild Asian leopard cats with a domestic cat began in Belgium, but nothing came to fruition, as breeders were stopping after one or two generations. Years later, Jean Mill, a breeder from Arizona wanted to achieve a fur pattern typical for wild Bengal cats in a domesticated breed. After many tries Mill finally reached her goal: a cat with spotted fur, face with an expression of a wild cat and gentle character. To be considered a domestic Bengal cat by the major cat registries, a Bengal must be at least four generations or more from the Asian leopard cat.
Appearance
This cat breed is considered a medium to large cat breed with adult males weighing up to 8kg. Bengal cats appear muscular but lean with strong legs that are medium in length. Bengal cat has a broad head that is longer than it is wide with medium to small ears set towards the sides of the head. Eyes are large and almost round. This breed is most famous for its fur. Bengal cats have a medium in length, delicate and silky coat. In the full sunlight, Bengal's fur can appear shimmery, as if dusted with gold glitter. This breed can have a vast variety of shapes creating their signature spotted look — dots, spots, rosettes, half-moons or paw prints.
Behaviour
With their ancestry in wild cats, Bengals make for a very active, agile and energetic cat breed which can prove challenging. They need lots of physical activity that can include playing fetch, climbing to any accessible heights or even swimming. Under exercised Bengal cats can develop undesirable and even destructive habits. As these cats have quite nimble paws they can easily turn to grab personal belongings or pull stuff down from tables or shelves around the house. Bengal cats are really fond of water, so make sure to not leave any access to aquariums or ponds as your cat will gladly try to fish for any living creatures. You can even expect your Bengal cat to frequently join you in the bath or shower.
Requirements
Bengal cats are very active and intelligent and will need lots of physical and mental stimulation to keep in the best shape possible. These cats are fond of climbing so you'll have to supply your Bengal cat with at least one tall cat tree. Bengal cats will love any puzzle toys that will challenge them to think and exercise their mind.
Daily care
With their short to medium in length coat, Bengal cats do not require any particular grooming or care. Brushing once a week will help get rid of dead hair and minimise the risk of hairballs forming in your cat's digestive system. During shedding season, mainly in spring and winter, it is advised to brush your cat daily. Trim your cat's claws when they get too long and you can see your cat's paws snagging on furniture or your clothing.
