BENGAL: A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
They truly look like wild cats in appearance. A large, athletic breed, these cats are playful and are always looking for an adventure!
They truly look like wild cats in appearance. A large, athletic breed, these cats are playful and are always looking for an adventure!
When people think of cats, not many breeds come to mind as quickly as the Bengal Cat. Coming from the hybrid mix of the Asian Leopard Cat, Egyptian Mau and the domestic cat, Bengals have a unique appearance like no other.
Depending on their pattern and coat, this means that the average Bengal can fetch anything from SG$1,400 to SG$25,000 (Champion Bloodlines) with only the Savannah or Ashera to beat the price tag, making them one of the top “designer” type cats in the world. The current world average is somewhere between US$1,500 - US$3,000.
What makes the price so justified? While many believe that the piece of pedigree paper is justification enough, the actual price of breeding the cat is also a big part of the price tag.
Trait Marks
The typical traits of a cat also play a part, such as generation, quality, age, temperament, and demand which is usually associated with the coat. With the average requirement for a Bengal to be at least four generations from the Asian Leopard Cat, it is no wonder their coats are truly unique.
Bengal Cats have an athletic appearance with its lean, balanced look. The large triangularshaped head is supported by a thick neck. Large feet and a thick tail complete the overall feral cat look. Their high cheekbones, dark markings around the eyes and the small ears make them specifically distinctive. And their coats have a plush feel, unlike any other cat breed.
Keep your Bengal happy and free from boredom by adding on toys that would simulate the hunting instinct in them. If you’re thinking of a cat that will laze on the couch all day long, the Bengal will certainly not fit the bill!
Fast Learner
As a pet, they are known to be highly intelligent and trainable, creating the perfect housecat to have for any type of owner. They are also often known to learn basic tricks like sit and lie down. Bengals are great at observing their owners and adapting to their gestures and expressions.
Their memory is known to be top as well, often remembering things for long periods of
time, such as avoiding a particular room for weeks after being stuck in it all day.
A truly unique trait they have are their love for water! They are often seen dipping their paws and then licking rather than drinking straight from the bowl.
Due to their energetic nature and the breed’s specific historical traits, Bengals need a complete and balanced cat food rich in protein. When it comes to grooming, the Bengal does not shed as much as regular cats so you need not worry about brushing as often as you would another breed.
In terms of health, the Bengal Cat has a lot of generational issues that are passed down from years of breeding. It is always wise to bring your cat for regular check-ups to catch the early stages of these issues. A regularly planned washing routine for your Bengal would also be wise.