Is a Bengal very wild or aggressive?
Not at all. The Bengal’s temperament is purely domestic. Years of careful and purposeful breeding have resulted in a cat with a beautiful and exotic look while being an even-tempered, gentle, affectionate, and playful family pet.
Is the Bengal related to the Bengal tiger?
No. The Bengal’s name is derived from the species name of its wild ancestor, Felis bengalensis, an Asian leopard cat.
How big do Bengals get?
Bengals are medium to large for house cats. Females average around 8-12 pounds and males around 10-15 pounds. Some males are really large and can weigh over 20 pounds.
Do Bengals get along with other animals?
In most cases, Bengals get along great with other animals. Introducing cats is always a challenge, but Bengals love having a feline companion of their own and do great in pairs! In our experiences, Bengals also enjoy being around dogs and other household animals that bring them a source of entertainment.
I have allergies to cats but I’ve heard that Bengals are hypoallergenic. Is this true?
Bengals are said to be somewhat hypoallergenic because of their unique coats. Their fur is like the soft pelt of a rabbit and it does not shed as much as most cats. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will not be allergic to them. We recommend spending an adequate amount of time around Bengals before deciding if they are a good fit for your home.
What is like to live with a Bengal?
Bengals are much more active than most of their feline counterparts. They still love their sleep, but they are incredibly curious about the goings on of the household. They love to help do the dishes, follow you around, and push everything you own off the counter. They are extremely playful and energetic; Sadie will even follow me around the house at full speed while trying to run up and do flips off the walls. They are a constant source of entertainment!
Can you keep Bengals with children?
Bengals make great family pets, and they will love the play and activity that comes with children. However, children must be taught how to properly handle, treat, and play with any cat for the safety of both the animal and the child. Without caution, a cat could inadvertently scratch a child during play or the child could inadvertently harm the cat.
Do Bengals need a special diet?
No. However, I recommend researching feline nutrition and carefully choosing a quality food. Cats are obligate (strict) carnivores and there are many commercial diets that contain filler ingredients that are not suitable for felines. Your Bengal will be much better off with a quality diet fit for a carnivore.
