History
Created by Jean Mill the Bengal was a deliberate breed between an Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic cat... later the addition of Indian Mau in the hopes of creating a breed that resembled a wild cat with the gentle disposition of a domesticated house cat. Jean was also hoping to dissuade anyone from the further killing of wild cats to make fashionable coats. Her thinking was if you owned one how could you possibly wear one?
Description
Female Bengals usually weigh somewhere between 7 to 10 lbs and males somewhere between 9 to 12 lbs, but its not unusual for a male to reach somewhere between 15 to 18 lbs. They are large boned and well muscled. The Bengal has horizontal facial stripes known as "mascara" which go from the eye and extend back along the neck. When you think of this cat think of the Jaguar. They come either spotted, striped or marbled in a variety of colors...blue, black seal spotted, brown marbled just to name of few...one other special feature of this fantastic feline...they look to be covered in gold dust.
Temperament
This cat is not going to be content laying in your lap all day long snoozing especially if you own more than one. Think of his gene pool he is going to be curious and adventurous at least. They enjoy heights and you will often find them there looking down on you. They get along well with other Bengals and will do well with other pets if properly socialized. The Bengal is a confident and happy feline that due to his wild cat breeds pedigree he also enjoys a good dip in the tub or pool if the weather is warm. He is attached to his people and is very affectionate towards them.
