Why Are Bengal Cats Illegal?

Why Bengal cats are not good pets?

A Bengal’s energy is a challenge to control – Can we play now? Source: lshman000 Bengals tend to behave like kittens their entire life. They are extremely playful and have loads of energy, so they demand a lot of space to jump and run. You may have to make changes to your home to accommodate all that vivaciousness and keep them occupied and entertained. The following can help:

• Perches
• Cat trees
• Cat wheels
• Plenty of fun toys
• Food puzzles
• Scratchers

Instead of sleeping on your lap, Bengals prefer to interact through play, so you should make sure your schedule allows regular playtime with your kitty.

Are Bengal cats illegal in the UK?

Bengal cats of all generations are legal to own in the UK – but they are actually illegal in some US states, including New York and Hawaii, and also Australia, all of which prohibit ownership of all wild cat hybrids.

What is the problem with Bengal cats?

Mouthing is a common problem with Bengal cats – Bengal cats sometimes chew on your fingers as a sign of affection. They may also bite you more aggressively to express irritation, in which case you should check if they need food, their litter box cleaned, or some playtime with you.

• These tiny leopards may attack you (or other pets) while playing.
• If you notice your Bengal ambushing, pounding, and then biting you, they are probably expressing their wild playful nature.
• It is a painful way to have fun, but luckily, Bengals are easy to train.
• You can quickly solve this problem with a different form of play.

Direct your Bengal’s predatory tendencies away from your legs and arms by using a wand or various interactive toys.

Why are Bengal cats illegal in the UK?

Henry the Bengal cat I’ve heard a lot about Bengal cats, and how Britain’s big cats are supposed to be misidentified Bengal cats, how the genes of Bengal cats and other exotic breeds are supposed to have got into the feral cat population and turned them into something altogether different.

And bigger. I heard that Bengal cats were real characters, they liked to go for walks on leads, and that they were such a handful behaviourally that they were often abandoned. I recall reading Big Cat Rescue saying that they used to get call-outs from people saying there was a “Florida panther” on the loose, attacking Alsatians and in some cases frightening old ladies, but when they got there it was often just an ever so slightly bigger than usual Bengal cat that had gone AWOL or been turned loose.

Legends tell of how the original Bengal cats, hybrids of the Asian leopard cat ( Prionailurus bengalensis bengalensis ) were named after one that was found in the Bay of Bengal on the approaches to Bombay (Mumbai) by early East India Company sailors, swimming out towards them.

• Like most exotic stories on the origins of exotic cat breeds, it’s probably nonsense.
• Burmese cats weren’t originally from Burma, but from Thailand, “Bombay” cats were bred in Virginia, and so on.) We know they were deliberately crossbred.
• The UK Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 came in largely because Bengal cats (and wolf dogs, crosses between dogs and wolves) were turning up in the country, with the authorities unsure how they would turn out, the law banned wolfdogs (they’re now legal) and required a license for Bengal cats that had more leopard cat genes than “F4” (fourth generation).

Bengal cats are known for their “confident” temperament (a bit of an understatement!) Breeders sell them for anything up to £800 each. I finally got to meet a Bengal cat face to face. He lives somewhere in the Blyth Valley in Suffolk, looked after by a fosterer.

He came from a smaller house at the other end of the same village, but he obviously decided he didn’t like his accommodation and fancied living in a bigger house and garden nearby, so he abandoned his humans and moved on in his new chosen home – fairly typical Bengal cat behaviour, I am told! He is very vocal, quite friendly, and the two things that really struck me about him are that he is very muscular – at first glance he looks a little on the overweight side until you see that he is all muscle.

Secondly, his fur is very short and shiny, it has a different feel to most cat fur. His back is also different to a mainstream domestic cats – a bit more arched. His toes seem a little longer too. The vestigal pad that most cats have towards the back of their paws is much more pronounced. Bengal cat rosette markings And impressive-looking cat indeed, but if I hadn’t been told he was a Bengal I’d have difficulty distinguishing him from an ordinary domestic cat. As for his size – a large, muscular cat but not even as huge as some of the long-haired, captured black feral cats I’ve seen in the county.

Are Bengal cats aggressive?

Why are Bengal cats often accused of being aggressive? – Many people falsely assume that Bengal cats are aggressive, but the truth is they are as prone to bad behaviour as any other domestic cat breed. This unfair belief stems from Bengals being bred from wild felines, specifically the Asian leopard cat. I seem aggressive to you? I’m flattered! Source: Bodi.raw In reality, Bengals only look wild. They are loveable, loyal, easily trainable, and capable of forming an unbreakable bond with their cat parents. If you are considering getting a Bengal, keep in mind that they are energetic and have a strong drive to hunt, but these traits shouldn’t be misinterpreted as aggression.

Is it safe to have a Bengal cat?

10.06.2022 – Bengals—a mix of domestic felines and Asian leopard cats—have a reputation for being mischievous and aggressive, but are Bengal cats dangerous to keep as companions? Despite their wild appearance and somewhat naughty temper, these kitties are no more dangerous than any other feline if disciplined and cared for properly.

What is the most expensive cat?

1. The Ashera – Up to $125,000 – The Ashera can cost as much as a whopping $125,000 because it is an extremely rare breed. A Los Angeles-based firm produces only 5 kittens of this type each year. So if you buy one, you will be among the very few owners of this amazing cat breed. In aesthetics, the Ashera resembles a snow leopard in its pattern.

But its behavior and temperament are similar to Savannah cats. In fact, some experts argue that genetic testing reveals that Ashera cats are nothing but Savannah F1 cats. This exotic breed is a hybrid of the Asian leopard cat, a domestic housecat, and the African serval. Personality-wise, it is loyal, affectionate, and very intelligent.

Despite the controversy about its genetics, the Ashera is the most prized pet cat in the world and you can take one home if you can cough up the astronomical price.

Why are Bengal cats so expensive?

Due to the rarity and uniqueness of Bengal cats compared to other domestic cats, the price is higher than average house cats. However, you will be pleased with the playful, non-violent personality of the beautiful Bengal.

How long do Bengal cats live?

Health – The average life expectancy of a Bengal is between 12 to 16 years when properly cared for and fed an appropriate, good quality diet to suit their ages. Bengals are known to be a healthy breed. They do have a few health issues that are occasionally seen and worth knowing about when thinking of sharing a home with one of these cats.

Flat Chested Kitten Syndrome (FCKS) Patellar luxation Hip dysplasia Pyruvate kinase deficiency – Breeders should have stud cats DNA tested Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – Breeders should have stud cats tested Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Why is my Bengal attacking me?

Why do Bengal cats bite? – How many times do I have to bite before you remember not to do that? Source: Nika Benedictova Before you can train a Bengal not to bite, be aggressive, or do anything you don’t want them to do, you should understand why they are exhibiting the unwanted behaviour, Bengals can bite for several reasons, namely:

• Boredom —In most cases, your Bengal will start biting because they are bored. These kitties need stimulation and physical activity. If they don’t know what to do with themselves, they will start chewing on anything they find, including your hands
• Overstimulation —During playtime or petting, your Bengal can get a bit too excited and bite your hand
• Fear —When cats get scared, they might react aggressively to protect themselves
• Agitation —If your Bengal feels stressed or annoyed, they might bite. Most felines use body language to show when they are uncomfortable or want someone to stop whatever they are doing. Kitties might attack if you ignore those signs or fail to recognise them. Some breeds will politely remove themselves from the situation— British Shorthairs, for example—but Bengals will likely teach you a lesson
• Pain —Your Bengal may be in pain because they are hurt or suffer from an underlying health condition. If you touch them the wrong way, they might react violently

Why can’t Bengal cats go outside?

Sounds reasonable so why should you not let your cat do all that? – On average, cats who are left to roam freely outdoors live much fewer years than indoor kitties. There’s two main reasons for that (1) Road traffic accidents and (2) Fighting with or being attacked by other cats or even wild animals.

1. Although cats are intelligent, there are many hazards outside that a little furry member of the family should not be exposed to.
2. On top of these risks, there is an additional one with Bengals and other pedigree cats: the risk of theft.
3. There are unfortunately unscrupulous humans out there who are quick to take advantage if they see an opportunity to take a valuable or beautiful cat.

Safe and sound indoors There’s also potentially the issue of your neighbours A lot of cats don’t like to use their own back garden as a toilet, and may decide to use your neighbours’ prized flower beds instead. Most people, perhaps understandably, don’t like this, and a minority will take their own cruel actions by deliberately harming or poisoning cats that do this 😯

Why don’t Bengal cats like being picked up?

The Bengal personality can run the gamut. In general, they are highly social cats – wanting to be involved in everything you do, but also, in general, they are all-four-on-the-floor cats, meaning they prefer to have their feet on a surface at all times.

How much petting and holding Bengals enjoy varies – just like all cats – and here is why. Cats have not been domesticated for many years compared to many other domesticated animals. Furthermore, the first purpose of cat domestication was not as a pet but as a working animal utilizing its natural behavior to control rodents.

While most of us are consciously aware of cats’ predatory role, we must not forget that they have always been prey to many larger animals. But in 1947, cat litter was invented, bringing cats indoors – in some cases – permanently. Having cats as indoor-only pets is a very modern practice.

Why does all this matter to the touching and holding of cats? Hopefully, it puts a time perspective on the short number of years cats have lived under people’s protection. Evolution doesn’t change instinct as quickly as humans have altered the habitat of cats, so cats still have the fight or flight instincts of a prey species animal – and this affects how and where they want to be touched and explains their natural resistance to restraint – which feels like being caught for supper.

Once you understand the cat’s instincts as both a predator and a prey animal, you can learn how to touch in a less offensive way to a cat, and you can work with your cat through rewards – or bribery – to encourage her to enjoy cat-appropriate touches. Let’s start with touch. A cat’s sense of touch is much more magnified than people’s. The final kill move in their hunting process is decided based on what the cat feels with its whiskers – not what it sees with its eyes. This gives some perspective on how important the sense of touch is to a cat.

Thus, the whiskers are a cat’s most sensitive area, and they do not like to be touched on their whiskers. Most people are familiar with the whiskers on either side of the cat’s nose and above the eyes, but did you realize cats also have whiskers on their feet and legs? You want to avoid touching the cat’s whiskers on purpose because a firm touch can be very overstimulating for a cat.

Touch is a way that cats spread their scent onto other cats and items. You may see your cat rubbing her cheeks on your favorite chair. That is because she wants to mix her scent with yours. Thus, one of your cat’s favorite places to be touched is just behind the whiskers on her cheek.

She loves to get scratched here. She also enjoys scratches behind the ears, at the base of the chin, where it connects to the jaw bone, and sometimes at the tail’s base. All cats are different, and you should observe your cat to discover where she likes to be petted the most. The difficulty is that cats enjoy brief, short-stroked, frequent interactions.

Think of how cats groom one another with short, firm licks. People tend to want more extended, long-stroked interactions once or twice a day. Every cat has a different comfort level for how much petting they enjoy. We need to meet our cat at her current comfort level and increase it through rewards (treats) if we need longer touching sessions with our cat.

• It is important not to touch your cat when engaged in hunt-like play.
• In the cat’s mind, it is out in the wild, stalking its next meal while trying to survive.
• While cats focus on hunting, they are also vulnerable to attack by larger predators.
• Touching at this point will likely result in the cat responding with the instinctive fight or flight reaction, so you are more likely to get scratched, or the cat will run away.

Neither is a desirable behavior when working to increase the amount of touch-time with your cat. Following the cat’s lead is the best method of improving your contact with your cat. Allow the cat to come and lay on you by choice. Stick your finger out near its face and allow it to rub itself on your finger. When you initially let your cat control the touching, it builds trust in your relationship, which leads to more human-initiated petting in the future.

Now that we’ve covered where to touch your cat and when not to touch your cat, let’s tackle the issue of being held. When it comes down to it, cats do not like restraint because it is not natural. Review the second paragraph; it has not been long since cats lived in the wild as both predator and prey.

Cats have so many kittens in a litter for the species’ survival. The death rate of cats in the wild is high due to predation. What does being held mimic from the wild? Being caught. However, cats can be bred to be more accepting of being held. The Ragdoll breed earned its name due to its acceptance of being picked up. You can do a few things to increase your cat’s tolerance for being held. You’ll want to limit the bad experiences that come with restraint and increase the positive ones. Think about all the bad things that happen to your cat – vaccinations, medications, nail trimming, etc.

They all happen while being restrained. Anytime you can alter negative experiences while being restrained, do so. Try trimming claws while your cat sleeps. Try hiding medications in food. Additionally, you can increase your cat’s positive experiences with being restrained. Once you find a treat your cat likes, offer a treat for tolerating being held.

Increase the time being held slowly. Cats respond best when there is something in it for them, so you need to reward your cat for being held to convince her it is non-threatening. It has been 10,000 years since agriculture allowed humans to begin to leave their hunter-gatherer lifestyle behind and form housing and societies.

It’s been less than 100 years since the cat moved into our homes permanently. Part of our draw to cats is their independent, instinctual nature. We can’t expect them to turn those instincts on and off as we desire. We have to meet our cats at the touch and holding level they find comfortable and reward them through food to accept a little more gradually.

References Becker, Marty DMV. “Four Places to Pet Your Cat and One to leave alone.” VetStreet.21 November 2012. www.vetstreet.com. Accessed 23 July 2018. Galaxy, Jackson. Total Cat Mojo. TarcherPerigee. New York City.2017. “Understanding Your Cat’s Behavior.” Cats Protection.

Why are Bengals banned in NYC?

Why this petition matters – Bengal cats are legal in practically all states of the US. In New York State they are regulated to allow F5 bengals. Which means the bengal cat is at least five generations separated from it wild ancestor the Asian leopard cat. However in New York City they are banned indefinitely.

I would like to extend the same F5 regulation to New York City. The bengal cat is a domesticated cat much like the average house cat. The ban on wild cats and all hybrids all began many years ago when a man kept a tiger in his nyc apartment. Then the law was made to ban all wild cats such as lions, tigers etc.

in response to the man who kept a tiger for 3 years in his nyc apartment and thus consequently even extended it to hybrids. However this law is not even strictly enforced and there are thousands of bengal cat pet owners all across New York City as well as pet shops that sell them,

1. This law is clearly outdated and should be adjusted to fit our current atmosphere.
2. There have been no reported incidents across the states that allow bengals nor any the city of New York.
3. Bengal cats are in no way anymore harmless than your average house cat.
4. I believe our city’s health code should be updated to reflect the F5 bengal as a domesticated house cat and lift the ban on bengal cats.

This is a highly popular breed praised for its intelligence as well as playful and affectionate demeanor. Many bengals can even play fetch! They are highly sought and loved amongst pet owners. Please sign the petition so we can changed this outdated law.

Why are Bengal cats controversial?

Thor is going viral — but even his owners say you should adopt instead. – When Rani Cucicov and Hilde De Coster decided to buy a Bengal cat a couple of years ago, they had no idea that they’d be answering questions from all over the world about where people could get one like theirs.

1. Thor is a well-loved Bengal cat living in Belgium and taking the internet by storm because of his amazing stripes and spots.
2. But when people see an animal like Thor, they don’t realize that there’s also a dark side to the demand for Bengal cats.
3. While Thor has been going viral this month, there was a quieter story in the news: Kevin Cheng, a man in Australia, just got busted for running a kitten factory.

Bengal kittens and cats were found riddled with infections and living in filth; 30 of the 72 cats seized were so sick they had to be euthanized, One of the cats found at Cheng’s operation was Bahiya Aussie Ripples, a champion show cat imported from the U.S.

By the time he was found, he was so sick he had to be euthanized, Not all breeders, of course, are as bad as Cheng’s nightmare operation. There are Bengal breeding operations all over the world, but the trouble is that they can be very hard to regulate, or even see. According to Animals Australia, kitten breeding operations in general lack transparency and regulatory oversight, and “the actions of unscrupulous breeders all combine to create what can be, at best, a life of deprivation and chronic boredom for cats and their kittens or, at worst, a living nightmare.” But Cucicov and De Coster told The Dodo in an email that they chose Thor because they “really wanted a Bengal.” The couple was worried about how their dog would react to a cat.

“e knew that Bengals were normally very good with dogs and they are very active and kind.” The couple searched shelter websites first but didn’t find anything, so they looked for a breeder, and they tried to be discerning. “We absolutely hate ‘puppy mills’ and ‘cat farms’,

1. Where you can buy more than 50 different races, and where the cat and dog mothers are ‘abused’ and need to be pregnant as many times as possible,” the couple wrote.
2. The couple found a breeder they liked in the Netherlands and that’s where they bought Thor, the now-Internet-famous cat.
3. Now that Thor is going viral, get many questions where to buy a cat like him,” the couple wrote.

“I always say to these people to really think about it because I don’t want these Bengals be bought for their appearance, and then when people get to know them, and see they’re so active, they don’t want them anymore.” The Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone, Minnesota, gets about 20 calls per month from owners of Bengal cats who can’t handle them anymore,

• Bengal cats can have health and behavioral issues stemming from their wild genes and hybrid breed, including urinating all around the house and having chronic diarrhea,
• Thor’s owners recommend looking first at animal rescues and shelters for a cat.
• Lthough Thor isn’t adopted from a shelter, have lots and lots of respect for people who adopt and who open their hearts for animals who are not wanted anymore,” Cucicov and De Coster wrote.

Some people have a bit of a different view on Bengal cats because fetishizing the breed can bring out the worst in cat lovers. “I’ve seen the stories about this Bengal,” Susan Bass of Big Cat Rescue told The Dodo, about Thor. “Bengals are the result of the unnatural breeding of domestic cats with Asian leopard cats,” she explained.

“As with other cat hybrids, breeders try to produce a cat with the distinctive markings of a wild cat but the calm temperament of a domestic cat.” Why? “These breeders know that people will pay a lot of money to own a cat that is different or special,” Bass said – as much as a few thousand dollars,

And when one considers how many unwanted cats are fighting for their lives in shelters right now, it becomes nearly impossible to justify spending thousands to buy a cat just for his special designer markings. “We don’t want to see a market for Asian leopard cats and other wild cats like servals simply so breeders can keep up with the demand for hybrids,” Bass said.

There are millions of domestic cats in shelters who would make wonderful pets.” Right now, there are an estimated 3.4 million cats in U.S. shelters alone, In addition to Thor, Cucicov and De Coster take care of two strays who live on their street, feeding them every day. They even made a shelter in their garden for the cats to sleep in.

“Every animal deserves to be taken care of,” they said. When an animal like Thor goes viral, the danger is that people forget about these homeless cats, whose unique beauty can’t even be named. Koshka, a rescued mutt living in Brooklyn, was found as a baby in a trash can. She might have some Maine Coon in her, but who knows. | Roberto Palomba “Will there be little Thors in the future?” one commenter asked on Thor’s Facebook page. “No,” Cucicov and De Coster replied. “He is already fixed 😊” If you’d like to adopt a cat of your own, check out Adopt-a-Pet.com to get started.

Why are Bengal cats so popular?

With leopard-like markings, Bengal cats seriously standout. But don’t let their fierce, wild-cat looks fool you: Bengals are people-loving cats, happy to play, explore and jump. They’re sweet and intelligent, making them the perfect pet for people who like to teach their kitties tricks and, after the fun is done, kick back and relax with their devoted companions.

Will a Bengal cat sleep with you?

Do Bengal Cats Sleep With You? Bengal cats tend to form very strong bonds with their owners and enjoy affection. Since cats sleep more for than half the day, most of that time is spent asleep where they feel comfortable.

• Bengal cats share DNA with wild cats and, because of this, are more attuned to hunting, survival, and avoiding danger.
• For a bengal cat to fall asleep, it must feel that it is safe and that there is no possibility for predators to notice it.
• For many bengal cats, this means they will sleep with you, either in your bed or on top of you if you allow it.
• If you roll over a lot in your sleep, or became the owner of a bengal after it became an adult, it may not sleep with you and prefer it’s own cat bed or nook in the house.
• The bengal will choose its sleeping location mainly out of habit and comfort so if you provide a sense of security then it will usually make sleeping next to you a part of its routine.

Do Bengal cats pick a favorite person?

8 things every Bengal cat owner knows (and loves) about their fur baby – Bengal cats are possibly smarter than some humans People attribute many different characteristics to cats. Arrogant, aloof, stand-offish, temperamental. Another trait is intelligent.

Are Bengal cats more like dogs?

Turkish Angora – The lovely Turkish Angora cat is an active breed that needs plenty of play. They like to chase after toys on settings, pounce at anything moving quickly, and can be trained to fetch. They also enjoy water and are considered strong swimmers! If you want to train a Turkish Angora to walk on a leash, it might take some time, but it’ll soon become your cat’s favorite activity.

Maine Coon: Photo by Amber Kipp via Unsplash Ragdoll: Photo by Kanashi via Unsplash Siberian: Photo by Moderne Attraction via Unsplash Sphynx: Photo by Kanashi via Unsplash

Is it better to have 2 Bengal cats?

Because Bengal cats are social animals who often don’t do well as the only pet in a household, people often want to adopt two kittens at one time. It seems everyone has an opinion on what genders make the best pair – including us. We have always recommended two males or a male and a female, but not two females.

1. But this opinion was based on anecdotal evidence – our experience – not research.
2. Upon looking into it a bit, it turns out that the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia did a study on sixty pairs of spayed and neutered household pets and published the results of this study in an article titled “Gender differences in the social behavior of the neutered indoor-only domestic cat” in the July 1999 Journal of Applied Animal Behaviour Science.

Before this study, all of the information gathered about domestic cats’ interactions had been done on feral cat colonies with entire cats. In cat colonies, females form groups, and males roam solitarily from group to group. Males regulate their interaction with other males by avoiding them, and it was assumed that desexed cats would follow suit, but that didn’t end up being the case.

The study analyzed 60 pairs of desexed cats: 20 male/male pairs, 20 male/female pairs, and 20 female/female pairs. The results were measured in three different categories: affiliative behaviors, proximity, and aggression. Affiliative behavior is cat body language that encourages harmony in the relationship.

This can be approaching one another amicably, grooming one another, rubbing their head on one another, sniffing socially, or blinking slowly – basically, a cat’s way of saying, “I love you.” Proximity is how much time the cats spend within sight of the other cat.

Aggression measured how often the cats had an aggressive encounter. The three different groups of cats had no measurable differences in affiliative behaviors or aggression. So, no matter the pairs’ genders, they were equally kind and equally disgruntled with one another. The one place there was a sizeable difference is proximity.

Male/male pairs spend significantly more time within sight of one another than male/female pairs and female/female pairs. While we do not quite understand what causes this difference, it may relate to the fact that males do not spend much time in the proximity of another male in feral cat colonies. So, if it isn’t gendered that affects these behaviors in spayed and neutered cats, what is it? It is mainly the amount of time spent together and the number of desirable territories that greatly impact the harmony in a pair of cats’ relationship. The number of aggressive interactions a pair of cats had with one another each day decreased with the amount of time they had lived together.

As cats grow old together, they engage in fewer aggressive behaviors. When the cats did engage in aggressive interactions, it was largely based on territory. If there was one preferred resting spot, the aggressive interactions tended to happen most frequently around it. Bottom line, the more preferred resting spots you provide in your home and the longer your pair of cats is together, the more harmony there will be in the relationship.

What if you want to introduce a new cat into a home with pre-existing cats? If you are getting both cats simultaneously, gender does not appear to affect the amount of harmony in the relationship, so you are free to choose whichever two kittens strike your fancy.

Just make sure that you have enough desirable sleeping stations placed around your house to keep the peace. If you already have an adult female cat at home, we do not recommend getting a new female. Think of how it would work in nature. A female has a territory and protects it from others; whereas, a male wanders from territory to territory.

Therefore, females are more territorial gender. It is not in their nature to share space. It is in their nature to protect and claim space. While there are exceptions, the male is more likely to allow the established female to remain in the power position.

1. A female is more likely to challenge that upon adulthood.
2. We have several adult female cats co-existing in our home.
3. We make it work by having an established peaceful matriarch who keeps the peace in the house.
4. Without her, our peaceful community would crumble as the other female cats scrambled for the top position.

Over our years of breeding, we have made a mistake (twice) of retiring a peaceful matriarch. We will not make that mistake again. Our current matriarch is now spayed, but she will live forever in our home as she has a vital role in our cattery. If the female in the top position were not a peace-keeper, then there would be constant group problems.

• Even so, it is harder for us to bring in a new female kitten than it is to keep our own female kittens and allow them to learn our hierarchical system from infancy.
• In general, there is a lower chance of successfully integrating a second female into a home with a pre-existing female.
• This does not mean it doesn’t happen.

A lot will depend on the personality of the two cats. Work Cited Barry, Kimberly J, and Sharon L Crowell-Davis. “Gender Differences in the Social Behavior of the Neutered Indoor-Only Domestic Cat.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, vol.64, no.3, 1999, pp.193–211.

Can I leave my Bengal cat alone?

Bengal Cat F.A.Q. This section is devoted to my personal experience with Bengal Cats. I am not an expert simply a happy owner of a beautiful Bengal Cat and the answers listed below are based upon my experience and time spent with my Bengal Cat Lucy Law.

Also I have extensive experience with domestic cats and in total have been fortunate to own two domestic cats in a span of twenty-five years and one Bengal for six years. Question: What is a Bengal Cat? Answer: This breed is a cross between the Asian Leopard Cat and the domestic house cat. Question: How much does a Bengal Cat cost? Answer: Prices vary depending upon the Bengal Cat Standard which includes the shape of the head, ears, eyes, nose, neck, torso, tail, legs, feet, texture, color, pattern and contrast.

To learn more about the Bengal Cat Standard please click here to educate yourself on the points allotted to Bengal Cats that are entered in various shows and what the judges look for to determine the winner. Also the price will depend upon whether or not you wish to purchase a pet or a breeder.

I have looked extensively at prices for Bengal Cats and the range appears to fluctuate from $800.00 to $3,000.00. Some older cats are sold at lower prices and retired breeders are also sold for substantially less than kittens. Question: Are Bengal Cats active? Answer: They sure are, if you want an independent cat which is happy and content to eat, sleep and get minimal attention this is not the cat for you.

Bengal Cats are extremely active. They are not content to just sit around; they need cat trees, toys, and ample space to climb. Question: Do Bengal Cats need a lot of attention? Answer: Bengal Cats need loads of attention. If you are considering a Bengal Cat then I suggest you ask yourself this question, do I want a cat that requires the type of attention given to a dog? Or do I want a domestic cat that is content with minimal attention? If you are not prepared to devote yourself to the Bengal Cat they become bored and when boredom sets in that can spell disaster.

Question: How do I stop my Bengal from peeing outside the litter box? Answer: This can be an arduous task and I have devoted an entire section outlining my experience with the Bengal Cat and inappropriate elimination. Although the section is very lengthy I have attempted to cover a lot of ground which I spent months exploring.

Hopefully the urination outside the litter box section can assist you in your quest for a resolution as urinating outside the litter box is unacceptable behaviour. Click Here to visit Bengal Cat Litter Problems. Question: What type of pattern is pictured below on your Bengal Cat? Answer: My Bengal Cat Lucy has rosettes and glitter and her markings are divine. Question: Are Bengal Cats Soft? Answer: Bengal Cats are as soft as silk. Running your fingers through their pelt is truly a luxury which is only surpassed by their incredible beauty. Question: Are Bengal Cats vicious or bad tempered? Answer: Bengal Cats have adoring personalities, they are kind and sweet and gentle.

• I truly believe that most pets take on characteristics of their owners.
• When treated badly perhaps the Bengal Cat will react accordingly as would any other family pet.
• Given the appropriate attention, care and love this cat will enchant you and if you had tons of money you would probably fill your house with Bengals.

I know I would. Question: Do Bengal Cats Shed? Answer: Shedding is so minimal that I want to say no but in all honesty they do shed somewhat. The marked difference is the Bengal Cat can sit on a couch for a month and you will notice very few hairs whereas a domestic cat would fill the chair within a week.

Question: What can I do to stop my Bengal Cat from shedding? Answer: As stated previously shedding is minimal however in some instances for no apparent reason the Bengal Cat begins to shed excessively. This occurred with Lucy approximately one month ago. The vet said shedding can be related to stress, anxiety, change of weather and in some instances the addition of Omega-3 administered on a daily basis can stop the shedding.

I ruled out stress and anxiety as there are no changes in the home, her routine is unaltered and she appears very happy. The good news is Omega-3 stopped the shedding almost immediately. Should you wish to add this supplement to your Bengal Cat diet the name of the product I purchased is UBA Vet, Omega-3 Fatty Acid Liquid.

1. While I was opening the bottle and applying the pump naturally Lucy was watching and I inadvertently squirted too much on my fingers.
2. She immediately began licking the Omega-3 from my fingers.
3. The next day I prepared her wet food and as suggested by the vet used half a pump of Omega-3 however Lucy would not touch her food.

I tried again to no avail. Later that evening I applied to my finger and she was delighted to lick off every single bit of Omega-3 although I had to caution her not to tear the skin off my fingers because she truly enjoys the dietary supplement directly from the bottle.

I tried on the palm of my hand as it was not as messy however she was not partial to the palm rather licking profusely on my fingers. Another tip I started using Omega-3 myself as the vet told me he swears by Omega and the pharmacist told me it is the best thing in the health section of the store and she uses the supplement daily.

Wow we can learn so much from our pets and one appointment for an inordinate amount of shedding proved worthwhile for Lucy and her family. Question:Can Bengal Cats see through mirrors? Answer: Sometimes yes and sometimes no it depends upon the Bengal Cat.

Identifying their reflection or you in the background is considered an advanced intellectual skill. The skill is possible with developed frontal lobes. The picture below illustrates Lucy getting a drink of water but looking at me taking her picture. She is very aware of herself in the mirror to the point of enjoying any mirror or surface that reflects her face and body.

Sometimes she stands in front of the mirror in my bedroom admiring her image and when I tell her she is beautiful she poses in front of the mirror, it is really quite funny and her favorite word is beautiful. Question: What should I feed my Bengal Cat? Answer: Top quality food is what you should feed your Bengal Cat. Remember they are muscular, my Bengal is slim but the perfect weight and I attribute this to her diet. I am a firm believer of giving any cat wet food as well as dry food.

I leave the dry food down as I don’t want her hungry in between the servings of wet food. You may be thinking that all cats should only get dry food because that is what your parents fed the cat and you received advice from a friend but I have learned a rather heartbreaking lesson regarding nutrition.

Unfortunately my first cat died because of cheap food I purchased for him as he loved the taste. I was so upset when he developed FUS and was taken far too early because of cheap food. Don’t make that mistake, eliminate high vet bills, obesity and severe complications by purchasing the best quality of food money can buy.

And once again I will reiterate that cats need wet food. Cats are carnivores meaning they are meat eaters. I make certain Lucy has wet food daily and when I cook chicken or turkey she is given a plate (without bones) as nutrition is vital to the well being of your cat. Question: Can you train a Bengal Cat to walk on a leash? Yes you can train your Bengal Cat to walk on a leash.

The leash is wonderful for training the Bengal Cat to jump, sit, glide, walk and run. The leash and harness control the Bengal Cat when they are climbing trees because you determine the height attained by holding or retracting the leash. I dedicated a section to leash training your Bengal Cat which may be accessed by Clicking Here. Question: What brand of kitty litter do you use for your Bengal Cat? Answer: I have tried several brands and the kitty litter preference for my Bengal Cat is Purina Maxx Scoop Clumping Litter. It is my belief that Bengal Cats prefer finer, softer litter and this product yields the best results.

She likes the litter so much that sometimes she dive bombs the box and rolls around in the litter. Question: What type of toys should I purchase for my Bengal Cat? Answer: Purchase sturdy, well made toys for your Bengal Cat. Although they are more expensive you will not be disappointed as the cheaper toys are basically destroyed within seconds and on one occasion Lucy managed to get her tooth caught in the toy.

Why You SHOULDN’T Get A BENGAL Cat

This scared me and from that point onward I purchased expensive toys that are well stitched, well made and designed to be thrashed about. Question: What is Bengal Cat Glitter? Answer: Glitter is unique to the Bengal Cat. The Bengal Cat Glitter is derived from a wild Egyptian Mau and is a recessive gene providing a metallic appearance on the coat. Question: What sound does a Bengal Cat make? Answer: The big loud one is the Call of the Wild and their voices include chortle, squeaky, growling, loud, musical, screaming and yes sometimes normal. Question: Do Bengal Cats need to climb frequently or moderately? Answer: Bengal Cats need to climb frequently.

Even though they inspect an area thoroughly because they are curious by nature they must continually climb and if you have precious ornaments I suggest you purchase a curio cabinet as I had to buy one almost immediately. Lucy did not break any of my ornaments but due to the continuous climbing I was getting really nervous.

Unlike domestic cats which appear relatively happy to inspect an area a few times the Bengal Cat has a burning desire to inspect the area daily. Be very careful with any item on a shelf or cabinet and if you do not have a place for your prized possessions put them away until you locate a piece of furniture which will house the items behind glass.

Question: Can Bengal Cats be left alone? Answer: For short periods of time you can leave the Bengal Cat alone. If you plan on travelling and work long hours the Bengal Cat is not a good choice for your lifestyle. The Bengal Cat does well in an environment where they get loads of attention and have the ability to integrate into your lifestyle.

It is unfair to purchase a Bengal Cat with the intent of leaving the Bengal alone for prolonged periods. This can lead to problems with behavior and inappropriate elimination. Of course the owner then wants to rid themselves of the Bengal so do give the matter serious consideration before you purchase a Bengal Cat.

• Question: Are Bengal Cats clean? Answer: Bengal Cats are extremely fastidious in their grooming habits.
• Lucy literally soaks some of her body while cleaning because she goes over the area an inordinate amount of time.
• My Bengal Cat Lucy always smells clean with no odor and the freshness is comparable to unscented soap.

Her tongue is extremely coarse and when she wants to clean you the result is somewhat painful depending upon the area she is cleaning. I managed to catch a picture of her the other day going through her daily ritual and this is a close up picture of the Bengal Cat tongue. Question: What color are the paw pads on a Bengal Cat? Answer: The paw pads on a brown Bengal Cat should be black. All four paw pads should be black. The paw pads on silver Bengal Cats should be black. All four paw pads on the silver Bengal should be black.

1. The paw pads on a Seal Lynx Point Bengal Cat should be dark seal brown.
2. All four paw pads on the Seal Lynx Point Bengal Cat should be dark seal brown.
3. Question: Are Bengal Cats safe outside? Answer: Yes if you purchase a good harness, leash, Revolution and provide constant supervision.
4. Bengal Cats love the outdoors and I believe they do well with fresh air, sunshine and exercise.

Revolution is a treatment and control of flea and ear mite, infestation, intestinal hookworm, roundworm infections and the prevention of heartworm disease. It is approximately $20.00 per month, easy to apply and I would not take Lucy outside without applying the Revolution 24 hours in advance of her outing.

1. The Bengal Cat is not safe outside unsupervised.
2. Why is the Bengal Cat compromised when allowed outside without supervision? First and foremost many are stolen because of their exotic beauty and monetary value.
3. The Bengal Cat may get hit by a car or attacked by wildlife in your on back garden.
4. Dogs and disease are issues to consider plus neighbors calling Animal Rescue to remove your Bengal Cat and integrate with animals that are sick.

Question: What question is asked when people see my Bengal Cat? Answer: The most frequently asked question I receive is about Lucy’s personality. People are shocked to see an animal which looks wild yet possesses an adoring personality. She is very gentle, active, has many voices, enjoys climbing and loves going outside for her daily stroll. Question: Should I get a Bengal Cat? Answer: Yes if you are prepared to: Give the Bengal a lot of attention. Purchase large climbing trees and top quality food for the Bengal. Prepare your house for the Bengal Cat. Spend money to prepare your house for the Bengal Cat.

• Reserve places for precious ornaments and breakables, I purchased a large curio cabinet.
• Be ready to remove carpet and possibly roll up that beautiful hand cut Chinese carpet.
• Have patience with behavioural issues such as urinating outside the litter box.
• Enjoy their vocal abilities but if you do not like loud sounds this is not the cat for you.

Bengal Cats need to climb frequently so you must remove china, glassware, etc. from the top of cabinets and bookshelves. Purchase mattress covers for all your beds the type that are waterproof. Remove any cushions lying flat and no plastic bags, gym bags, luggage, sheets, laundry, in the open.

Be available because if left alone for prolonged periods the results can be catastrophic. High energy, super charged, intelligent and vocal is the type of cat residing in your home. The Bengal Cat is not a lap cat. Because of the high intellect Bengal Cats can be challenging. They learn quickly and often mimic your gestures therefore you must be careful regarding light switches, doors, flushing toilets and many other daily functions.

The Bengal Cat will learn how to turn the lights on and off and who wants the Bengal Cat flushing the toilet all night long? There are some health issues associated with the breed and this can be costly. The initial purchase of the Bengal is pricey but there are alternatives such as older cats, retired breeders and people who want to rid themselves of their Bengal.

• Some people wanting to sell their Bengal Cats using excuses like we are moving, too busy for the cat, allergies, new home, house is too small, Bengal is too active often translate into problematic issues.
• If at all possible it is best to purchase a kitten however the downside is the cost.
• But you enjoy those magical moments and kitten antics plus you have the ability to train the Bengal from an early age and fully integrate the kitten into your environment.

The positive side of purchasing a Bengal Cat: The Bengal Cat will give you a lot of attention so the attention aspect is reciprocal. The Bengal Cat usually forms a strong bond to one person. This bond is indestructible. They are loyal and loving. The Bengal Cat personality is gentle, outgoing, vocal and filled with wonder.

The money spent on purchasing strong trees and toys is rewarded as the Bengal Cat will not ruin your furniture. Your house will automatically get the de-cluttered look compliments of the Bengal Cat. Although carpets pull rooms together it is a lot easier to clean the house without carpeting. You really should have a mattress cover on your bed to protect the mattress therefore some of the expenses before introducing the Bengal Cat to your home are really good ideas.

You will learn quickly how to keep the house super tidy. A place for everything and everything it its place. Although costly sometimes it is worthwhile to indulge and if you love cats and want a Bengal Cat save money for this exotic beauty because the Bengal Cat will enchant you.

Should I get 2 Bengal kittens?

It’s best when kittens go in pairs. Yes, think two instead of one if possible. So you have made a decision to buy a Bengal kitten! Choosing the right kitten is a big step, but it’s worth it and the results are very rewarding. If you’re thinking about bringing a kitten into your life, there are many reasons why you should actually consider doubling that and bringing home a pair. Starting off with two may actually be much easier and more beneficial for the kittens and for you. Our experience is that kittens adapt and settle in much better as pairs or into a home that already has another young kitten. If you have decided to buy a Bengal, it’s worth considering getting two if you don’t already have a young cat in your household. This can be less work for you, because the kittens will expend much of their youthful energy on each other. The companionship will make for more well-adjusted pets and you will almost immediately understand why getting two was the right decision as you watch their interactions. Fewer behavior problems with two kittens. Cats that have a playmate tend to be more socially well-adjusted and avoid behavior problems like shyness, biting, hissing, being frightened and hiding in the company of people they don’t know. One kitten can become lonely. If you work long hours or travel for a weekend, two cats keep each other company and are more calm during your absence. Cats are social creatures, but they need early experiences to learn about other cats. Cats that have grown up with feline company are more accepting of it when they are older. A cat that has always been an only cat is not so likely to be happy to get more feline company. If you think you would like another cat in the future, it makes sense to get two as kittens. The fact is it’s better to adopt cats in small related groups of two or three. Peace of mind for you. You can rest easy at work or while away, knowing your cats have each other’s company. Kittens learn from each other. As young animals, kittens have a lot to learn, and they will be able to learn from watching the other kitten and copying their behaviour. If one kitten is quick to learn appropriate litter box use, the other will be likely to copy. They also help each other with grooming; wash-up after meals soon becomes a ritual with 2 kittens. They help each other burn off energy. A pair of kittens will entertain each other in the wee hours of the night, allowing you a full night’s rest. No one can play with a kitten like another kitten can! Two cats stay healthy together. As they get older, cats are less likely to gain weight due to lack of movement when they have a companion to play with. They will remain more playful and youthful in later years with a companion. The workload to care for two cats remains about the same. Kittens love to play. They have a wide variety of play behaviours: play with objects such as cat toys or shoe-laces, chasing, running, hiding, leaping, and even chasing their own (or another cat’s) tail. Play behaviours peak at about four months old, and then tail off, but adult cats like to play too. There are several ideas about why play is important, such as practising hunting behaviours, developing motor skills, keeping fit, and learning about the environment and social bonds. As with other animals, play seems to be important in feline development. Having another kitten around will increase the opportunities for play, and they will continue to play together as adults. They will each have a friend for life. You will definitely see two much happier kittens than you would otherwise. It’s twice as much cute fluffy fun if one kitten is adorable, then surely two is even more adorable? Kittens are still in the learning stages, they learn from their mother, their environment and from each other. Kitten-to-kitten interaction and playtime are actually valuable educational opportunities to help them develop important social skills that will be needed later in life. They learn how to communicate and interpret each other’s signals, how hard to bite during playtime and how to share territory. In the case of a litter of kittens, the siblings have been together since birth and are already well into this process. They’re already bonded by the time you come along as a potential cat parent. What a great way to start! They can learn feline communication and behaviours, such as how to greet another cat, how to show affection, or to ask another cat to play. This isn’t something we can teach them, kittens have to learn this from other cats. Interestingly, dogs can also learn how to greet a cat the way it likes, with a nose-to-nose greeting. They can just be cats. Having a second kitten around gives them the opportunity to do the things that being a cat involves, watching each other, snuggling up, grooming each other and so on. Indoor cats can easily get bored; the company of another cat gives them something to do and counts as environmental enrichment. Of course there are some drawbacks. The costs will be double, for food, cat litter, vaccinations and vet visits, and almost double for insurance ( insurers will often give a small discount for a second animal). What if I have an older cat? Of course it depends on the established cat’s personality, but in our experience, we find that many adult cats’ patience can run thin when a kitten wants to play. Though it might sound contrary, an older, established cat will probably accept two kittens better than one. One kitten will seek out the older cat as a playmate, or worse, tease and pester the senior cat which can cause stress to an older cat. The kitten in return, will be “rewarded” for his playful efforts with hisses and swats. Two kittens will expend their energy in play with each other, leaving their older “uncle” to relax in peace. Kittens and Life Enrichment: For a kitten, the ability to have a companion for playtime can be one of the best forms of enrichment. Let’s face it, you have to work and spend time away from home and a little kitten can get lonely and even scared. Many people are under the false impression that cats are solitary and don’t want companionship but they do have a social structure and most truly benefit and thrive when they have a feline buddy. The companionship two kittens can provide each other may help prevent future behavior problems from boredom or separation anxiety. Often, the bond between two cats who have grown up together becomes very strong and special. Watching two long-time cat companions curled up together as they nap in the afternoon sun is a precious sight. Cost and Care of Kittens: After the initial kitten vaccinations, the veterinary costs taper off in most cases. You’ll most likely just be dealing with routine yearly appointments. Many veterinary clinics offer multi-pet discounts as well so be sure and check that out to save even more money. When it comes to toys and cat furniture, your biggest expense will be a cat tree (I highly recommend that you get one or more) and you’d have that expense regardless of whether you purchased one kitten or two. And if you’re at all familiar with cats, you know that some of the best cat furniture are empty cardboard boxes. You can make a cat condo by using duct tape to connect several cardboard boxes. Cut holes in the boxes and create a fun kitty playground. Simple and very inexpensive. When it comes to care, such as grooming, trimming nails, and so on, if you start training them to accept the process while they’re young, then the process will be very quick once they become adults. Train your kittens to enjoy being touched and handled and it’ll make life much easier down the road should you ever have to administer medication when they’re older. It’ll also enable you to do nail trims at home. The key is to start the training early, be consistent and be gentle. Make it a quick, fun experience that ends with a treat or other reward. Spay / Neuter: If the kittens were not sold to you spayed or neutered You have to remember to get them spayed/neutered before they become sexually active, even though they are likely to remain indoor cats, because cats become sexually mature between 5 and 8 months of age. Because of this, cats are usually spayed or neutered between 4-6 months, although it can be done as young as 12 weeks of age. We DO NOT recommend Early Spaying or Neutering. Failure to spay or neuter in time causes a host of issues but the worst is marking and spraying which after it has started is very difficult to stop. To Summarize: Getting two kittens together means that they can play together, learn from each other, and keep each other company. In general terms, it seems like the answer to the question, ” Should I get one kitten, or Two?” Is Two kittens are always better than one. What is the disadvantage of Bengal cat? Bengals Can Get Lonely – There is a downside to their affectionate nature. Bengal cats can get very lonely if they are left to their own devices for very long. They don’t like being by themselves, and if you’re away for a long time, even other cats might not be enough to keep them company. Why do Bengal cats not like being held? The Bengal personality can run the gamut. In general, they are highly social cats – wanting to be involved in everything you do, but also, in general, they are all-four-on-the-floor cats, meaning they prefer to have their feet on a surface at all times. How much petting and holding Bengals enjoy varies – just like all cats – and here is why. Cats have not been domesticated for many years compared to many other domesticated animals. Furthermore, the first purpose of cat domestication was not as a pet but as a working animal utilizing its natural behavior to control rodents. While most of us are consciously aware of cats’ predatory role, we must not forget that they have always been prey to many larger animals. But in 1947, cat litter was invented, bringing cats indoors – in some cases – permanently. Having cats as indoor-only pets is a very modern practice. Why does all this matter to the touching and holding of cats? Hopefully, it puts a time perspective on the short number of years cats have lived under people’s protection. Evolution doesn’t change instinct as quickly as humans have altered the habitat of cats, so cats still have the fight or flight instincts of a prey species animal – and this affects how and where they want to be touched and explains their natural resistance to restraint – which feels like being caught for supper. Once you understand the cat’s instincts as both a predator and a prey animal, you can learn how to touch in a less offensive way to a cat, and you can work with your cat through rewards – or bribery – to encourage her to enjoy cat-appropriate touches. Let’s start with touch. A cat’s sense of touch is much more magnified than people’s. The final kill move in their hunting process is decided based on what the cat feels with its whiskers – not what it sees with its eyes. This gives some perspective on how important the sense of touch is to a cat. Thus, the whiskers are a cat’s most sensitive area, and they do not like to be touched on their whiskers. Most people are familiar with the whiskers on either side of the cat’s nose and above the eyes, but did you realize cats also have whiskers on their feet and legs? You want to avoid touching the cat’s whiskers on purpose because a firm touch can be very overstimulating for a cat. Touch is a way that cats spread their scent onto other cats and items. You may see your cat rubbing her cheeks on your favorite chair. That is because she wants to mix her scent with yours. Thus, one of your cat’s favorite places to be touched is just behind the whiskers on her cheek. She loves to get scratched here. She also enjoys scratches behind the ears, at the base of the chin, where it connects to the jaw bone, and sometimes at the tail’s base. All cats are different, and you should observe your cat to discover where she likes to be petted the most. The difficulty is that cats enjoy brief, short-stroked, frequent interactions. Think of how cats groom one another with short, firm licks. People tend to want more extended, long-stroked interactions once or twice a day. Every cat has a different comfort level for how much petting they enjoy. We need to meet our cat at her current comfort level and increase it through rewards (treats) if we need longer touching sessions with our cat. It is important not to touch your cat when engaged in hunt-like play. In the cat’s mind, it is out in the wild, stalking its next meal while trying to survive. While cats focus on hunting, they are also vulnerable to attack by larger predators. Touching at this point will likely result in the cat responding with the instinctive fight or flight reaction, so you are more likely to get scratched, or the cat will run away. Neither is a desirable behavior when working to increase the amount of touch-time with your cat. Following the cat’s lead is the best method of improving your contact with your cat. Allow the cat to come and lay on you by choice. Stick your finger out near its face and allow it to rub itself on your finger. When you initially let your cat control the touching, it builds trust in your relationship, which leads to more human-initiated petting in the future. Now that we’ve covered where to touch your cat and when not to touch your cat, let’s tackle the issue of being held. When it comes down to it, cats do not like restraint because it is not natural. Review the second paragraph; it has not been long since cats lived in the wild as both predator and prey. Cats have so many kittens in a litter for the species’ survival. The death rate of cats in the wild is high due to predation. What does being held mimic from the wild? Being caught. However, cats can be bred to be more accepting of being held. The Ragdoll breed earned its name due to its acceptance of being picked up. You can do a few things to increase your cat’s tolerance for being held. You’ll want to limit the bad experiences that come with restraint and increase the positive ones. Think about all the bad things that happen to your cat – vaccinations, medications, nail trimming, etc. They all happen while being restrained. Anytime you can alter negative experiences while being restrained, do so. Try trimming claws while your cat sleeps. Try hiding medications in food. Additionally, you can increase your cat’s positive experiences with being restrained. Once you find a treat your cat likes, offer a treat for tolerating being held. Increase the time being held slowly. Cats respond best when there is something in it for them, so you need to reward your cat for being held to convince her it is non-threatening. It has been 10,000 years since agriculture allowed humans to begin to leave their hunter-gatherer lifestyle behind and form housing and societies. It’s been less than 100 years since the cat moved into our homes permanently. Part of our draw to cats is their independent, instinctual nature. We can’t expect them to turn those instincts on and off as we desire. We have to meet our cats at the touch and holding level they find comfortable and reward them through food to accept a little more gradually. References Becker, Marty DMV. “Four Places to Pet Your Cat and One to leave alone.” VetStreet.21 November 2012. www.vetstreet.com. Accessed 23 July 2018. Galaxy, Jackson. Total Cat Mojo. TarcherPerigee. New York City.2017. “Understanding Your Cat’s Behavior.” Cats Protection. Are Bengal cats difficult to keep? 3. Bengals Tend To Be Fairly High Maintenance – Bengals do as a rule tend to be demanding and fairly high maintenance cats. They often bond strongly with their families and can be very demanding of their time and attention, which is just what many people want-but of course, this is not for everyone, and can drive some owners mad! If you don’t have time to devote to a Bengal every day,then it may not be the cat for you. Why are Bengal cats controversial? Thor is going viral — but even his owners say you should adopt instead. – When Rani Cucicov and Hilde De Coster decided to buy a Bengal cat a couple of years ago, they had no idea that they’d be answering questions from all over the world about where people could get one like theirs. Thor is a well-loved Bengal cat living in Belgium and taking the internet by storm because of his amazing stripes and spots. But when people see an animal like Thor, they don’t realize that there’s also a dark side to the demand for Bengal cats. While Thor has been going viral this month, there was a quieter story in the news: Kevin Cheng, a man in Australia, just got busted for running a kitten factory. Bengal kittens and cats were found riddled with infections and living in filth; 30 of the 72 cats seized were so sick they had to be euthanized, One of the cats found at Cheng’s operation was Bahiya Aussie Ripples, a champion show cat imported from the U.S. By the time he was found, he was so sick he had to be euthanized, Not all breeders, of course, are as bad as Cheng’s nightmare operation. There are Bengal breeding operations all over the world, but the trouble is that they can be very hard to regulate, or even see. According to Animals Australia, kitten breeding operations in general lack transparency and regulatory oversight, and “the actions of unscrupulous breeders all combine to create what can be, at best, a life of deprivation and chronic boredom for cats and their kittens or, at worst, a living nightmare.” But Cucicov and De Coster told The Dodo in an email that they chose Thor because they “really wanted a Bengal.” The couple was worried about how their dog would react to a cat. “e knew that Bengals were normally very good with dogs and they are very active and kind.” The couple searched shelter websites first but didn’t find anything, so they looked for a breeder, and they tried to be discerning. “We absolutely hate ‘puppy mills’ and ‘cat farms’, Where you can buy more than 50 different races, and where the cat and dog mothers are ‘abused’ and need to be pregnant as many times as possible,” the couple wrote. The couple found a breeder they liked in the Netherlands and that’s where they bought Thor, the now-Internet-famous cat. Now that Thor is going viral, get many questions where to buy a cat like him,” the couple wrote. “I always say to these people to really think about it because I don’t want these Bengals be bought for their appearance, and then when people get to know them, and see they’re so active, they don’t want them anymore.” The Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone, Minnesota, gets about 20 calls per month from owners of Bengal cats who can’t handle them anymore, Bengal cats can have health and behavioral issues stemming from their wild genes and hybrid breed, including urinating all around the house and having chronic diarrhea, Thor’s owners recommend looking first at animal rescues and shelters for a cat. Lthough Thor isn’t adopted from a shelter, have lots and lots of respect for people who adopt and who open their hearts for animals who are not wanted anymore,” Cucicov and De Coster wrote. Some people have a bit of a different view on Bengal cats because fetishizing the breed can bring out the worst in cat lovers. “I’ve seen the stories about this Bengal,” Susan Bass of Big Cat Rescue told The Dodo, about Thor. “Bengals are the result of the unnatural breeding of domestic cats with Asian leopard cats,” she explained. As with other cat hybrids, breeders try to produce a cat with the distinctive markings of a wild cat but the calm temperament of a domestic cat.” Why? “These breeders know that people will pay a lot of money to own a cat that is different or special,” Bass said – as much as a few thousand dollars, And when one considers how many unwanted cats are fighting for their lives in shelters right now, it becomes nearly impossible to justify spending thousands to buy a cat just for his special designer markings. “We don’t want to see a market for Asian leopard cats and other wild cats like servals simply so breeders can keep up with the demand for hybrids,” Bass said. There are millions of domestic cats in shelters who would make wonderful pets.” Right now, there are an estimated 3.4 million cats in U.S. shelters alone, In addition to Thor, Cucicov and De Coster take care of two strays who live on their street, feeding them every day. They even made a shelter in their garden for the cats to sleep in. “Every animal deserves to be taken care of,” they said. When an animal like Thor goes viral, the danger is that people forget about these homeless cats, whose unique beauty can’t even be named. Koshka, a rescued mutt living in Brooklyn, was found as a baby in a trash can. She might have some Maine Coon in her, but who knows. | Roberto Palomba “Will there be little Thors in the future?” one commenter asked on Thor’s Facebook page. “No,” Cucicov and De Coster replied. “He is already fixed 😊” If you’d like to adopt a cat of your own, check out Adopt-a-Pet.com to get started. Adblock detector