Black and white Bengal cat is the friendly and loving version of the jungle leopard, that you cannot actually own as a pet. But if you have always loved leopards and their majestic demeanor, black and white cats can be the perfect choice for you.
History and Origin
Bengal cats were originally bred from Asian leopard cats and domestic felines to achieve a unique breed. This was done in the early 1900s. The Asian leopard cats are known to have slender bodies and a naturally wild appearance. This is where the black and white Bengal cat gets its look.
But as the domestic feline DNA is very much present in Bengal cats, they get a friendly and domesticated temperament, making them ideal pets.
Appearance
Black and white Bengal cats have unique personalities and appearances. Not only do their coats come in meticulous shapes and patterns, but there is also a sheen to them.
They are known for their wild jungle appearance that makes them look dangerous but on the contrary, their demeanor is pretty affectionate. As they have muscular and slender bodies, with long hind legs, their stride is powerful.
There are many variations of the Bengal cat but one of the most commonly found variations is the black and white Bengal cat that has black spottings and white background. These bright contrasting colors make the Bengals look spectacular.
This melanistic variation of their coats makes them look royal. Other than black there are other varieties of coat colors as well such as cream, snow and silver, and brown.
These cats have unique almond-shaped eyes that come in various colors such as green, gold, copper, brown, and hazel.
Health
Bengal cats have strong bodies and a healthy system that is rough and tough. But they can also be prone to certain infections and health conditions. Some common diseases in Bengal cats are distal neuropathy, hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, etc.
While some of these conditions can be prevented with a healthy and active lifestyle, infections can only be prevented with proper and regular vaccination.
As a pet owner, make sure you get your Bengals vaccinated to ensure a longer and healthier life for them.
Weight Range
Bengal cats have petite bodies as they are very active and tend to roam around all day. They burn excess calories by being active and therefore they have a moderate weight range. Females can weigh anywhere around 6 – 10 lbs while a male can weigh up to 15 lbs.
Even though they are petite, it doesn’t mean they are not strong. They have a strong and well-built bone structure that makes sure they have ample energy. If not given proper food and a well-balanced carnivores’ diet, they can become meek.
Personality
Bengal cats have personalities completely opposite to their appearance. You might think their wild appearance implies they are grumpy and rebellious but that’s far from true.
These breeds are known to have very positive and joyful personalities. They love to roam around freely and explore every corner of the land they are left on. They are also quite attentive and clever and you can train them in a specific way because they can easily adapt.
They are also very loyal to their owners and are friendly with strangers if they do not sense any danger. You will see them roam around all day and climb here and there because they love to be active.
When it comes to water and outdoor activities, they are just as interested. As they love being active, water can be one of their favorite things to venture on. You can see them running around in fields because they love open areas.
Bengal Cats as Pets
Bengal cats can be great pets because not only are they very clever and attentive, they are just as friendly and loving towards their owners. They form meaningful bonds and get easily attached to anyone who treats them well.
You need to take care of their diet. They require carnivores’ meals that will give them the required strength and energy.
As pets, Bengals are quite active and they will entertain you throughout the day with their little mischiefs!