Is a Bengal A Wild Cat?

Not at all! Although it has a beautiful wild looking appearance, the Bengal behaves like other cats in most respects. Years and years of goal-oriented breeding have resulted in a Bengal Cat with a beautiful and exotic look and a pleasant and affectionate nature. Bengals are active, curious, and almost dog-like in their dealings with the owner, and they prefer to accompany the owner everywhere.

The only areas, in which the Bengal Cat has retained a "wild" behavior is in the way it moves and in its handling of water. The Bengal is usually fast as lightning, and it uses its paws for picking up things (just like a squirrel). Moreover, numerous Bengal cats and Kittens enjoy playing with water - just like their wild ancestors in the jungle.

Is the Bengal an Aggressive Cat?

NO! Unfortunately, some people, unfamiliar with the Bengals, spread this opinion - perhaps because in the early days of the Bengal history, a few Bengals did not behave very well in the exhibition halls (at least, this is the only explanation we Bengal breeders can come up with).
However, due to responsible and caring breeders, the present-day Bengal has a loving and affectionate nature. In addition, the first generations after crossing a leopard cat with a domestic cat (the first three generations are called F1, F2, and F3 respectively - F stands for "foundation") may have inherited the shy nature, although this is not always the case. However, Bengals sold as pets are four or more generations away from their Asian ancestor, and they have the pleasant character of the domestic cat.

Sometimes, a litter of Bengal kittens comprise a kitten, which has inherited the shy character of its forefather. Such a kitten should be taken into special consideration by the breeder, as it is neither suited for being a show cat nor a family cat. It may, however, turn out to be an excellent companion for a single owner.

In addition, the The International Cat Association (TICA) Bengal Standard mentions that a Bengal must not show aggression. Therefore, Bengals bred by responsible breeders are loving and devoted family cats - as a visit to such a breeder will most certainly confirm.

Are Bengals OK with Children?

YES, Bengal cats are excellent family pets, and they love to play and sleep with the children of the family. Numerous Bengal breeders are themselves parents of small children, and they can confirm this to be an excellent combination. However, please remember that children must be taught to treat animals correctly - this applies to all animals, and it is of course the parents' responsibility to teach them.

So Bengals Make Great Pets Then?

YES, In most respects, the Bengal behaves more like a dog than like a cat! It will follow its owner everywhere and is interested in the family doings. It enjoys helping with floor washing or doing the dishes and may even accompany its owner in the bath or shower!!.
It is curious and playful (many Bengals will entertain themselves for hours playing with a ball of paper) and it loves being cuddled when it has finished its chores. It likes to be in high positions - in this respect, their wild ancestry does not fail them. A tall cat tree is popular, but a Bengal will make do with a tall bookshelf, or other tall piece of furniture. From this high position, it will survey the activities of the household.

Do Bengals Get Along with other household pets such as dogs or other cats?

YES, I think Bengals are a cross between dog and a cat in their behavior. Bengals enjoy playing with dogs, cats and of course the entire family. Bengals are very interactive with their families and nothing makes them happier than to be a part of the family. I know of friends that have Bengals, Siamese Cats, Rotweillers and Pugs. They all get along very well, in fact Bengals are sometimes better playmates for small dogs than larger dogs.

Of course, that said it is up to the owner to ensure all pets are properly introduced to each other and a good caring owner shoudl have no problem intregrating bengals into the family household.

I'm still not sure, can I give you a call and have a chat about them?

YES, by all means, feel free to contact me via email or give me a call and I will be happy to answer any of your questions.