Looking for an exotic-looking cat with a playful, energetic personality? The Bengal cat brings together the wild beauty of a leopard and the affectionate nature of a domestic feline. Discover everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind breed below.
The Bengal cat
Relatively new in the cat world is the Bengal cat. It’s a true domestic tiger — breeders have used wild cat bloodlines. The Bengal's stunning appearance and expressive personality make it a fantastic companion. The natural instincts are still present, but curiosity and friendliness win. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Bengal cats.
History of the Bengal cat
The Bengal cat is relatively new to the cat world. The first hybrid with wild cats originated in the US. In 1963, the first breeding experiment was conducted. The early generations were still very wild and unsuitable as house pets. Over time, their behavior became more similar to domestic cats. From the fourth generation onward, Bengal cats are considered tame.
The first hybrids were a mix between a domestic cat and an Asian leopard cat. Later, other breeds were introduced, creating the Bengal’s beautiful appearance. Today, they are bred as a pure breed. From the fifth generation, they are allowed as pets.
The character of the Bengal cat
The Bengal cat descends from wild ancestors, and you can still see this in their behavior. They are active, spirited animals — basic toys won’t do. Bengals are smart and eager to learn. Boredom is their enemy, and they need plenty of stimulation. Climbing is a favorite activity, and they love water.
Typical traits of a Bengal cat include friendliness, confidence, reliability, and dominance. They love intense cuddling and need plenty of space to move. Bengals prefer a companion with a similar energy level and are best not kept alone.
The appearance of the Bengal cat
The Bengal is often called a “domestic tiger” — thanks to its exotic looks. The coat features rosettes or spots, and the belly is lighter. Their legs are usually spotted as well, just like the rest of their body. Common coat colors include gold, orange, amber, and sand.
Bengals are sleek, athletic animals and grow into medium-sized cats. Their head is relatively small, with large almond-shaped eyes, typically green or blue. You can clearly see the wild cat ancestry in their exotic appearance — they’re a striking sight to behold.
Nutrition and health of a Bengal cat
As a purebred cat, the Bengal may suffer from breed-specific conditions. Some may go blind in their early years due to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-b). Another risk is anemia, officially known as Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKDEF). Responsible breeders test their Bengals for genetic conditions. Heart ultrasounds are also performed to detect thickened heart muscles, a sign of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).
An annual check-up with the vet is strongly recommended. Bengals are sensitive to industrial cat food. A better option is raw food or high-quality canned food. There are special formulas for Bengals — this is the best form of health care.
Is the Bengal cat banned in the Netherlands?
As mentioned, from the fourth generation onward, Bengal cats are tame. But they are only officially considered house pets from the fifth generation. Because they are a true breed, you can only purchase a Bengal kitten from a certified breeder.
It’s understandable to wonder whether Bengal cats are banned in the Netherlands. Although they are at least five generations removed from wild cats, their natural instincts are still present. They need extra attention and socialization. Provide intelligent toys, a challenging scratching post, and plenty of space to ensure a happy Bengal cat. In short: Bengal cats are not banned in the Netherlands.
Thinking of buying a Bengal cat? What’s the price?
Still excited about the Bengal cat after reading this? We totally get it! They are true pedigree cats, and certified breeders invest heavily in their socialization. Of course, this comes at a price. Expect to pay around €1000 for a Bengal kitten.
Yes, that’s quite a sum, but you’ll get a magnificent companion in return. A certified breeder is a member of a breeding association, which ensures they take full responsibility for the cat’s health. They test for genetic disorders and ensure proper vaccinations and care.
