The Paw People

Maybe you’ve seen them doing tricks on TikTok. Maybe you even have a friend who has one. Maybe you’re the luckiest person ever, and are a pet parent to a Bengal yourself! These unique kitties are no doubt fascinating and fun pets to host in your home. Let’s find out more about this exotic breed.

Facts & Figures

How was this breed created? Well, in 1963, breeder Jean Mill mixed the Domestic Shorthair with the Asian Leopard cat. And voila, the rest is history!

Bengals can grow up to 16 inches tall and weigh up to 15 pounds. With hind legs longer than their front legs, these playful kitties have a graceful stride. Agility is their middle name. Using their sprightly paws, they can open drawers, rummage through cabinets, and even flip the lights on and off.

As with any cat, Bengals can have a wide range of personalities. Be careful with this breed in particular, though, when it comes to providing attention. Attention-starved Bengals may grow frustrated and begin to take their feelings out on you by misbehaving and causing drama. A Bengal who is completely fed up may even play dead.

Bengals can live up to 16 years old depending on a number of factors, including how well they’re taken care of. They do have some hereditary health risks, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and cataracts. As with any breed, it’s vital to schedule regular vet check-ups to help avoid health issues or catch any terminal issues early.

What Makes Them Special

Bengals are striking in their exotic appearance, flashing leopard spots on their beautiful coats. Some have fur that even shimmers like glitter in the sunlight! They’re unlike most other domestic cats in that they can be trained to do tricks, similar to dogs.

Their bodies are extremely elegant and muscular, and their minds are sharp and alert. Similar to their Asian Leopard cat descendants, they have an obsession with water. If you hop in the shower, be careful – your Bengal buddy might follow you in!

Their Perfect Owner

Owning a Bengal isn’t for the faint of heart. Don’t mistake Bengals for your typical near-self-sufficient house cat. Their perfect owner is someone who will diligently shower them with attention, playtime, and mental stimulation. Ideally, a Bengal will be able to live in a large home with room to sprint around playing chase or fetch, and this home would be decorated with cat towers, perches, and cat walks atop at least a couple walls. This will help satisfy a Bengal’s high drive and desire for exercise and adventure. An owner who can match their energy and confidence and who loves to show off their tricks to friends is an added bonus!