Bengal Cat - Bengal Kittens

Bengal Cat

As pets go, a Bengal cat can make a wonderful pet. However, they should come with a caution label – they are not the most laid back of cat breeds. And in my opinion – and judging on the amount that end up requiring adoption - many individuals simply don’t consider what it is they’re buying before they bring home a Bengal kitten.

I’ve no doubts that Bengals can become a great addition to any family - as a family pet - but there are drawbacks. I’m not saying that they’re little monsters but they do exhibit some rather unusual behaviour, especially in comparison to other breeds.

And so before you go out and buy a gorgeous ball of Bengal kitten fluff, you need to bear in mind several factors. Are you prepared for just how playful and demanding they can be? Or even how aggressive they can be with other cats. And don’t get me started on their horrible penchant for assassinating the local wild life population.

I’ve had five Bengal cats since 1995. I wouldn’t change a thing about any one of them. Or the fact that I’ve owned them. But I have to say that having been privy to many a premature bird/fish/mouse or frog death, it can feel a little – distasteful at times.

The fighting can also become rather disturbing, in terms of frequency and noise. Every one of my Bengals was neutered. It didn’t alter the way they continued to patrol their borders and assault any hapless moggy that strayed into/onto their hallowed ground.

Then you’ve got to address the little matter of vet bills. Due to their rather singular nature, Bengals can end up at your local vets practice on a regular basis. Looking back, it got to the stage whereby my vet or the nurses would notice me in the waiting room, raise an enquiring eyebrow and simply state “Fighting again huh.” I’m not saying you’ll have a lot of high vet bills to pay. I’m only suggesting that you should consider this is a possibility.

Bengal Kittens

And so to the Bengal kittens. If you’re not put off by the above, how to go about buying one? Well basically decided on the sex. I’d say male but it’s a matter of personal choice. Once you’ve decided you’re having one, start looking. You’ll find them advertised in the local press, pet stores and on the internet.

I’d advice that you aim for a local breeder. You are better of checking out several breeders, as opposed to jumping onto the first one that has available kittens. Shop around: prices and Bengal kitten quality can wildly vary.

Buying A Bengal Cat

The good old plain advice:

• Don’t buy the first Bengal kitten you see

• Ask around – try and inform yourself on the breeds characteristics so that you know what to look for in terms of pattern, colour, breed ‘type’ and so on

• Most breeders are in it for the money. But that doesn’t mean that they lack scruples. Check out the conditions/facilities that the breeder offers. Many Bengal breeders house their breeding queens (the moms) outdoors in roomy pens – then bring them indoors for the birthing. Are the surroundings clean and fresh. Sounds silly but it’s important. Don’t give your money to a cat farmer.

• All kittens, without exception, should be tame, inquisitive, lively and perky, bright eyed and litter trained.

• Never buy a Bengal that’s less than 12 weeks old. No matter what others tell you. They should also be wormed, free of fleas and have at least six weks free insurance

• All Bengal kittens should have pedigrees. Expect the paperwork. If there are none, walk away.

• Once you’ve decided on your Bengal kitten, place a deposit – then go back several times until he/she is ready for collection. Get to know your kitten a little. A good breeder will allow you to do this – so ask first.

Bengal Cat - Conclusion

In conclusion, considering a Bengal kitten as a new addition to your family is no bad thing. If you do go on to purchase a Bengal, you'll always find that you're delighted, amused and enchanted. They simply never lose their charm and appeal. They will adore the whole family - though usually they'll pick a favourite - and, providing you know what you're getting yourself into, you'll not regret the day you brought your Bengal home.

However, as this article clearly points out - be aware of the breed, its profile and characteristics. Knowledge is a wonderful thing and there's so much of it out there you'd be daft not to take advantage of it.

So if you do go on to purchase a Bengal kitten - I wish you many happy years of fun and frolics. Just don't say I didn't warn you about the vanishing wildlife population!

Pros:

The Bengal cat does have a great temperament and are incredibly affectionate. Their playful antics are often hilarious - and rarely stop when they're out of kitten-hood. Very trainable and quick to learn. Great with kids - very tolerant of some children's rather ham-fisted handlings of their feline persons.

Cons

They can be terribly aggressive, not to mention costly to 'repair' down at your local vets. They're rather vocal, some more so than others. There's nothing worse than a yowling Bengal cat. They can be very demanding of your attention, rather like a dog. They don't seem to take no for an answer - when what they're wanting is a 'yes'. And don't forget how proficient they are at hunting. It will happen, especially if your Bengal is allowed outdoors.