Bengal Cats – What Makes Them So Popular?
Quite a few cat breeds boast a wild cat look: Norwegian Forest Cats resemble huge arctic feline predators; Pixie Bob cats look a lot like American Bobcats; Abyssinian cats proudly sport the wild agouti coat pattern. In fact, one of the reasons we love cats so much is the distinctive raw edge to their appearance and character.
However, not many breeds possess a documented wild heritage like the Bengal. In fact, Bengal cats are direct descendants of Asian leopard cats (Felis bengalensis), bred together with domestic cats in carefully thought out breeding plans. As such, it is a relatively new breed, not yet recognized by some of the major cat breed associations such as the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).
However, it is by no means an obscure or little-known race. In fact, Bengal cats have quickly become one of the most popular breeds, with Bengal breeders and breeding programs outnumbering those of most other breeds. What made the Bengal an instant hit in the world of cat lovers? Here are three things that stand out about this cat breed, which may make you consider becoming a true Bengal cat fancier:
Rich Coat – Little Grooming
The Bengal has a rich, soft coat that does not require any unusual grooming rituals. Some brushing is always recommended, at least for bonding purposes, but the coat remains shiny and beautiful even without that extra care. The coat has a distinct ‘undomesticated’ appearance, a nod to the Bengal’s wild heritage, and some cats are said to have a royal golden sheen over their fur.
Variety of patterns and coat colors.
Bengals always display the tabby marking pattern, but that does not mean a uniform appearance. Bengal cats come in various shades of brown, with various yellowish and reddish tints. There are even “snow” white Bengals that bear a light silver tabby pattern (some of them even have blue eyes). With their tabby patterns ranging from spots (marble) to spots, the most spectacular Bengal cats present the viewer with a leopard-like display of rosettes. Rosettes, the joy and pride of many breeders, can range from a large bicolor spot to a fully developed and clearly marked rosette.
Purrrsonality of Bengal
Ultimately, cat lovers seek the companionship of a feline, and not just good looks. And this is where the Bengal cat really comes into its own, creating a huge draw for ailurophiles around the world. They are anything but fierce or wild: today’s Bengal cats, adopted into loving homes, have to be separated by at least four generations from their wild ancestors. These kitties are sweet and affectionate, yet incredibly agile, intelligent, and active. These curious felines tend to explore their surroundings and seek human interaction at all times.
This unique combination of stunning appearance, idiosyncratic heritage and, above all, bright personality, helps make the Bengal cat one of the most popular cat breeds in North America today.
