The Bengal cat is an athletic, agile and graceful cat with a strong, muscular body. The Bengal cat looks like a wild cat on the prowl and was originally bred by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic short hair cat. Bengals take their name from the Asian leopard cat’s scientific name, Felis bengalensis. Bengals today, are one and the same with domestic cats, with all Bengals purchased in Australia at least five generations removed from any ancestors with wild bloodlines. A Bengal will vary in size depending on gender and whether it is desexed. Their weight can range from 3.5kg up to 8kg or more, and they have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
Bengal cats are fun to live with and are active and highly intelligent cats. They can be talkative and like to play games and learn tricks. They also like playing with water and usually get along well with other cats, dogs and horses. Climbing is one of their strengths and a tall cat tree is a must. If all of this sounds very busy, on the other hand, most Bengals also like a cuddle and a scratch, will sit on your lap and like to share your bed.
