Bengal Tiger Cat is a unique cross-bred species achieved from cross-breeding between the South Asian leopard, found in jungles, and known for its wild persona, and timid and gentle domestic cat, with the perfect traits of a friendly and loving pet.
These cats come in different leopard and tiger patterns and therefore can appear wild. You would find them in spots, rosettes, markings, marbled patterns, and also in various colors and hues that look gorgeous on them.
A cat lover is usually in awe of the majestic look that Bengal tiger cats usually have. They have the wildness of a jungle leopard in their appearance and the loving demeanor of a domestic cat, thus making for a great pet. Let’s know some facts about the Bengal tiger cat.
Bengal Tiger Cat: History and Origin
Bengal Tiger Cat is a species of cat that wasn’t officially established until the 1970s when Jean Mill, a graduate in Genetics, intentionally cross-bred the South Asian leopard with the domestic cat to achieve a unique breed that we now know as the Bengal cat.
Her several attempts were not successful at the beginning but in 1975 she resumed her breeding efforts and successfully established a generation of the Bengal tiger cat.
In 1983, The International Cat Association officially accepted and registered the Bengal tiger cat as a breed of domestic cat. This was a big step in making the tiger cats a popular breed.
And almost after a decade, in 1991, the Bengal tiger cat gained championship status. And soon later, various cat associations around the world accepted the Bengal tiger breed as an official domestic breed.
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Bengal Tiger Cat: Appearance
Bengal Cats have a unique appearance and their coat resembles the Asian leopard. They come in various coats and colors and are known to have rosettes and spotting’s. Because of this, they get a natural Tiger like appearance that gives them a wild look.
Bengal Cats have long body and their rear legs are longer than the frontal ones. This allows them to have a graceful stride and easily jump to elevated levels.
Their bodies are quite lean and stout. Obese Bengals are rare to find because they naturally have a leaner build. Along with having slim bodies, they are naturally muscular too, and have the capability of being very active throughout the day.
Because of such a body build, they enjoy outdoor activities a lot and tend to be energetic and quickly responsive.
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Colors
Bengals come in various cat colors such as brown, seal lynx, sepia, silver, mink spotted, etc.
Bengals can have a variety of markings, spots, and patterns on their coats. The patterns can be clouded, marbled, spotted, or rosette and the colors can be as vivid as red, brown, black, and grey.
Broadly speaking, Bengal tiger cats have four distinct coat patterns – ticked, mackerel spotted and blotched.
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Other Features
Bengals have round, small heads, large eyes, and distinct and vivid markings. Some Bengal varieties such as the Melanistic one have a black shiny coat that gives off a healthy appearance and looks splendid in sunlight. As the coat is shiny, black melanistic cats are said to be one of the most gorgeous-looking cats.
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Bengal Tiger Cat: Nature and Demeanor
Bengal Cats are known for their calm demeanor which is quite ironic for the wild and seemingly aggressive look they carry, thanks to their wild roots. Even though some get intimidated by the look of these felines, they come across as rather cooperative and friendly.
Bengals have quirks that make them distinct and charming. For example, they are extremely water friendly and would love to play in the pool for unbelievably long hours. You would be surprised at their water skills.
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Other than that these little and sturdy feline creatures love to learn new tricks and please their masters with their little performances. As a pet owner, you would find yourself getting startled by their little quirks and activities, which also definitely do the work of keeping you entertained throughout the day.
Moreover, these cats love to be active all day around. Their lean and muscular body makes it perfect for them to jump around all day and be goofy and cute. You would want to keep an eye on them in your house. Because they naturally have an explorer’s spirit. They love to stumble upon new adventures.
Even though they are very active, that doesn’t mean they don’t like a good cuddle. They would love to curl up in your lap after a long day of goofing around here and there.
Bengal Tiger Cats: Training and Care
Bengal Tiger Cats need regular mental stimulation as they are naturally very smart. So, if you do not give them a regular dose of mental training, they would become dull.
Make sure you teach your Bengals various tricks and games. Do not worry about whether or not they will adapt to it, because they are very smart. They can easily learn various tricks and potty training is also very easy for them.
You can buy them some fun cat toys that will test their skills and will keep them engaged and active. Bengals love new objects so bombarding them with their favourite toys would make them love you even more.
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Bengal Tiger Cats: Health Concerns
There are certain health concerns according to Nationwide pet insurance policyholders that Bengal tiger cats are prone to.
These are lymphosarcoma which is cancer in the lymphatic tissue, chronic renal failure, which is a kidney disease, upset stomach, Pancreatitis, which is a disease that affects the pancreas, as the name clearly suggests, and FUTD, which stands for Feline Urinary Tract Disease.
Read more: Bengal Cat Lifespan: How Long Do Bengal Cats Live?
Conclusion
Bengal Tiger cats are extremely lovable creatures who have a knack for being smart and intelligent. Their majestic and wild appearance gives them an intimidating look but does not get deceived by their wildness. By nature, they are quite calm and friendly. So you won’t have to worry about inviting some friends over to your house because these cats love to make friends!