The Bengal Cat

The Bengal Cat originated in America and is a distinct, unique breed which was derived from crossing a domestic cat with the Wild Asian Leopard Cat.

This was done in an effort to preserve the stunning beauty of the small forest dwelling leopard cat that also resembles the Ocelot or Marguay.

The first three generations are called domestic/leopard cat hybrids. These have unpredictable temperaments - and therefore are not allowed into Australia.

The fourth generation and beyond have the lovable domestic temperament and are referred to as Bengals – and are allowed into Australia.

The name “Bengal” is derived from the Latin name of the leopard cat, Felis Bengalensis. What is believed to be the first documented cross in the United States is recorded as 1963, however, there are references to domestic and wild cat crosses in earlier literature.

The Bengal makes a loving, intelligent housecat. They are litter box trained like any other domestic cat. Some Bengals love playing in water and all are curious and entertaining little creatures. They enjoy companionship from both adults and children and will fit in very easily with other family pets. Immunisation and nutrition are the same as any other domestic household cat.

This gorgeous personality comes in several colours and patterns. The main colour is brown spotted (as in leopard spots). These have a brown background with dark brown to black spots. The background can range from a light sepia brown to a really nice rufous red. The browns have green eyes. Spots will vary in size and intensity.

Then there is the Seal Lynx and Seal Mink colours (Snow Bengals). The Seal Lynx is a blue eyed white with light brown to charcoal coloured spots and tips. The Seal Mink has an off-white to ivory coloured background with contrasting spots and usually aqua coloured eyes.

The Marbled Bengal is a change from Spotted to a beautiful swirled or marbleised pattern – similar to the pattern of a Classic Tabby. The Marble also comes in the browns and whites.

Bengals also come in a blue and (recently in the USA) black colours although these are not a recognised colour for showing.