The Bengal Cat is a stunningly marked spotted leopard
hybrid cat exhibiting the personality and temperament desired for family
companionship while bringing the look and feel of the jungle into your home.
Although the first recorded cross in the United States between an Asian Leopard Cat and a
Domestic Cat was recorded in the early 1960's, during the late 1970's in California
genetic research was begun using the wild Asian Leopard Cat.
"F1" (or first generation
foundation offspring) females were created as a result of this research program and
foundation breeding programs were begun.
The first Bengal Cat
was registered with the International Cat Association in 1983.
The ASIAN LEOPARD CAT is a small jungle cat that can be found in the forests of Southern
Asia, India, China, Korea, and has also been reported to live in Taiwan, Philippines,
Borneo, Java, Bali and Sumatra. Some subspecies are a bit large and others remain smaller
(10-15 pounds). Because of their smaller size, the Asian Leopard Cat is a scavenger and has
been reported to be somewhat nocturnal. They have a fondness for playing in the water and
are expert swimmers.
Asian Leopard cats come in a variety of different colors and spotting
patterns.
FOUNDATION BENGAL CATS are the first three generations resulting from the Asian Leopard
Cat/Bengal cross. The first generation is referred to as an F1, the second an F2, and the
third generation an F3. Male Bengals born of these first generations are sterile, however
the females remain fertile. F1 Bengal Cats should be owned and raised only by experienced
breeders, but the remaining Bengal generations make marvelous family companions.
DOMESTIC/LATER GENERATION BENGAL CATS are 4 generations or more away from the Asian
Leopard Cat. They are registered and referred to as "SBT" Bengals. Both
male and females born of these generations are fertile. Bengal females are smaller than
males and tend to weigh in the 7-10 pound range. Males are substantially larger and often
obtain weights of 15 pounds or more. The best of both worlds, these
"man made", loudly
colored, spotted wonders are perfect family companions!
If Bengals and their special traits interest you, please
let us know so that we can assist you in making the right choice for your home situation.
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