How To Select a Bengal

The Bengal is a relatively new breed of cat. It is a cross between domestic shorthair cats, or what you probably think of when you picture a pet cat, and wild Asian Leopard cats that live in forests. This unique cat breed has distinctive markings, and makes a great pet for the right household. Bengals are known for their beautiful silky fur. Often, a Bengal's fur has gold flecks, which are referred to as "glitter." Here's how to select a Bengal:

1. Understand the breed's temperament. Bengals are beautiful, graceful, and intelligent. Bengal cats are hardy and have very few care requirements other than shelter, food, and water. They are curious and loving, and enjoy sleeping at the foot of the bed, yet are independent. A Bengal will probably not end up being a lap cat. They are usually good with children, and are smart enough to learn tricks.
2. Know your options. Bengals are relatively rare, so you'll most likely need to purchase one from a breeder, as they are not often seen in shelters or cat rescues. Most Bengals are sold as kittens, but be sure to select a Bengal over 12 weeks old. Any younger than this and they're not quite ready to leave their mother, although some unscrupulous breeder will let you take a Bengal kitten home much earlier.
3. Choose a breeder. Most Bengals cost about $500 to $600 for purebred quality, or $1000 or more if you plan to show the cat. A breeder will nearly always require a written agreement and will provide a health guarantee.
4. Ask about the lineage. Because Bengals were bred from wild cats fairly recently, there are still some first-generation crosses. These are referred to as F1. In some states, you'd need a special permit to own them, and they are not very domesticated. If you are looking for a true pet, look for a Bengal that is at least four generations removed from the wild Asian Leopard.
5. Ask about health conditions. A reputable breeder will guarantee that when you select a Bengal from their litter, it will not have feline leukemia or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
6. Hold the cat. Always pick up and hold any cat you're considering, no matter the breed. Check for overall health, including good muscle tone, and watch for signs of illness, including sneezing or runny eyes. Make sure that the ears are clean and pink inside. Check for fleas, bald patches, or dry, flaky skin. If you are looking at a Bengal less than 12 weeks old, keep in mind that their markings have not yet turned permanent. They will probably look fuzzy and unclear, and you may not be able to get an idea of what they will look like as they get older. If you plan to show your Bengal, avoid selecting a Bengal with long fur or a ticked pattern, because these are considered to be faults by show judges.
7. Your Bengal's veterinary visit. As soon as possible after you select a Bengal, take it to your veterinarian. Even though it should have had its immunizations before it left the breeder, you still want your vet to confirm its health. This is particularly necessary if you have other pets at home, since you don't want to introduce any illnesses or diseases to your other cats.

Bengals are a unique breed that was started in the 1960s. Although they were originally bred with wild cats, domesticated Bengals make excellent pets. Loving yet independent, they are easy to care for and have beautiful fur.