The Bengal breed originated from a cross between a domestic cat and the wild Asian Leopard Cat. This species of small wild cat, comparable to the Ocelot or Margay, weighs about 10-15 pounds. By selective breeding for temperament as well as beauty, Bengal cats have evolved that are small replicas of their wild ancestors, but have loving dependable personalities.

Throughout history there are indications of a profound human fascination with the large and small wild felines that inhabit the jungles and forest of the world. In 1963, Jean S. Mill crossed the domestic cat with the Asian Leopard Cat, a spotted five to twelve pound shy wild cat species from Asia. This was the first effort to use hybrid offspring to create a breed of domestic cat with the loving nature of a favored fireside tabby and the striking look associated with Leopards, Ocelots and Jaguars. The modern Bengal breed traces to cats bred by Mrs. Mill beginning in the early 1980's. The breed's name is a reference to the scientific name of the Asian Leopard Cat, Prionailurus bengalensis. The hybrid crosses are registered as Foundation (F1, F2 & F3) Bengals that are not eligible for show and only the females are used for breeding.

The Foundation Bengals can make wonderful pets in the right homes, though they are not for everyone. It takes time for these cats to adjust when changes are made in their environments and please keep in mind they are a lifetime commitment.   They are curious, smart, active, loyal and simply amazing.   It is extremely important that you keep up with the socialization and bonding of these  foundation kittens on an everyday basis. Bengals have the same food and immunization requirements as other domestic felines. Note: please check your state and city laws to make sure they are legal to own where you reside.

The SBT Bengal, which stands for Stud Book Tradition; is at least four generations removed from The Asian Leopard cat.  Bengals  get along well with other pets, as well as children, and have domestic litter box habits.

Accepted as a new breed in TICA in 1986, Bengals gained championship status in 1991. They are now one of the most frequently exhibited breeds in TICA. An enthusiastic group of breeders around the world have successfully fulfilled the goal of creating a docile, civilized house cat that wears the richly patterned coat of the jungle cats and has some of the arresting features that have inspired and aroused humanity for centuries.

Kittens are priced according to quality, those most fitting the desired breed standard are considered to be the show quality kittens. These naturally exhibit the best patterns, brightest colors, clearest contrast with little or no barring (rib stripes).They are meant to resemble a miniature version of the leopard, with long sleek muscular bodies, somewhat small ears, puffy whisker pads, thick tails, and light undersides.

Breeder quality kittens may have correct color and type, but may have slight flaws which would not permit them to be shown. Perhaps their coat may lack contrast or they may have one or two rib stripes.   They however have good pedigree, along with the potential to produce outstanding offspring.

Pet quality kittens might have faults, such as a kink in their tail or a white patch of hair on their throat, making them undesirable in breeding programs.   These kittens still have traits that make the Bengal so unique and make loving household pets, not used for breeding. 

Adult Bengal males weight 14-20  pounds, and the females weight 8-12 pounds.

Bengals are confident, curious,  loving, devoted and intelligent cats that make exceptional pets. 

They truly love their human companions and will follow you throughout your home, always curious, not wanting to miss out on anything going on around them.  These are the type of cats that generally greet everyone who comes to the door and will waste no time introducing themselves to all visitors. Though Bengals are  energetic, they still long to sit on a human's lap for attention and affection.  Unlike other breeds of cats, most Bengals are known to LOVE water, though it may vary with each individual cat.   In our home,  whenever the water is running in the kitchen sink or bath room our Bengals come running.  With every opportunity, our Bengals will sit on the shower seat and enjoy the mist during our showers.   Honey, our F1 will join me in shower at times and sit at my feet, directly under the water - waiting on me to give her kisses.   All Bengals have a love for heights and are excellent climbers.

Most Bengals can be harness-trained at an early age, making for a safe way for your kitty to enjoy outdoors.  Other alternatives may include the use of a pet stroller or outdoor enclosure  that will allow your Bengal to enjoy nature safely.

The above is just a short overview of the History and general information about the Bengal breed, if you have other questions or concerns about the Bengal breed; please feel free to contact us.     jemccain@sbcglobal.net  

For more information check out the Wikipedia page here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_(cat)