Bengal Cats
The Bengal cat is a cross breed between an Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic feline. It was mentioned in 1889 that the cross had been sucessful although it wasn't till 1934 till it was proven in a Belgian scientific journal. In 1946 Jean Mill/Sugden, the person that was later to become the greatest influence of the development of the modern Bengal, submitted a term paper for her genetics class at UC Davis on the subject of cross breeding cats. The Bengal wasn't registered with the American Cat Fanciers Association till 1977. Most modern Bengals are a cross between the Asian Leopard Cat and Egytian Maus.
History of Bengal Cats
Physical Characteristics
The Bengal cat is a medium to large cat with a long, muscular body with robust bones. It's hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs, the feet are large & oval. The head is broad modified wedge, which is longer than wide, with small ears & pronounced whisker pads. Eyes are black rimmed & almond shaped. The tail is thick, tapering to a black tip. The coat is thick, beautifully sleek & soft feels more like a pelt than fur.
Spotted: The spots should be dark & clear, with a crisp outline with a good contrast to the background colour. The spots can be either solid, arrow shaped or as rosettes. Spots should be found on the body.
Marbled: The marbled pattern consists of contrasting horizontal swirls along the side of the cat.
Glitter: Bengal cats have a gene known as the glitter gene. It is believed this came from the kitten Jean Mill imported from India. It is a recessive gene & is highly desirable in the Bengal. It looks as if a handful of gold has been sprinkled over the coat.
Temperament
Bengals are intelligent, active, energetic cats. Due to their Asian Leopard Cat ancestry many Bengals have a love of water. They are agile, love to climb & can be vocal with a distinctive voice . They get along well with other pets & people. Bengals enjoy high places & are enthusiastic climbers. Many Bengal owners have trained their cat to walk on a harness, so they can enjoy the great outdoors in safety.