Personality

These beautiful, exotic and playful animals should have the disposition of a loving house cat, with the coloring and markings of a wild leopard. A sound temperament, without overt aggression, is essential in the domestic Bengal breed, given the closeness of its truly wild ancestors. Bengals are naturally inquisitive. They love to cuddle. Bengals are typically extremely affectionate and devoted to all members of their home. They can be wonderful pets, especially if children, other cats and dogs are already established in the household when the Bengal is introduced. The Bengal has a wide range of vocal sounds and frequently communicates through unusual but pleasing chirps, trills and cooing.

Activity Level

Bengals are muscular, energetic, athletic animals that usually enjoy playing in water. They are one of the few cat breeds that seem to really enjoy being walked on a leash around the neighborhood. Domestic Bengals are almost always indoor cats, as their close wild ancestry does not make them particularly suitable for an outdoor, free-roaming lifestyle. These active cats require a constant influx of activities and distractions, including new toys and rotation of climbing trees and scratching posts, to keep them occupied.

Behavioral Traits

The Bengal’s unusual range of vocalization is distinct among companion cats and is one of the remaining attributes of its wild Asian Leopard Cat ancestry. Because Bengals are genetically so close to a wild feline, this breed should be kept indoors and managed very conscientiously. Owners of Bengals need to ensure that their cats have a stimulating living environment and receive plenty of attention, to keep them from becoming bored and potentially destructive.