The Bengal Cat is one of the newest species of cats. It arose from crosses between domestic and wild cats. So it's drop-dead gorgeous!

The origin of this breed still raises questions. Although it is known that it stems from crosses between domestic cats and the Asian Leopard, some attribute its emergence to the United States, while others point out that it was in South Asia.

In any case, it is a breed that has caused controversy and admiration since the 1960s. Despite having records since 1963, its official recognition as a breed only took place in 1985. Despite this, some bodies still do not recognize it as a domestic cat.

For example, this is the case of the CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association), which has existed in the United States since 1906. Currently, this is the largest body responsible for pedigree registration.

As mentioned above, the bengal or bengal cat is a domestic feline that originated from the cross between domestic and wild cats. Thus, it is characterized by having a medium size and also by safeguarding some physical characteristics related to tigers.

This cat has fur in patterns that resemble those of leopards, more specifically. And this is not for nothing, since the breed originates from the Asian Leopard. In this way, what we have is a long feline with soft, silky and short hair that has designs similar to those of leopards.

Also, they usually have stripes on their legs and necks, as well as a full tail. Bengal cats have a strong bone structure and tend to develop well muscularly. In addition, other characteristics of the Bengal cat are the relatively large head, large oval eyes (usually green), high cheekbones and a broad, full muzzle.

Despite having a hybrid origin involving wild animals, today Bengal cats are considered very docile and kind. But this was not always the case, as the first litters were still very temperamental.

However, over time and crossings, cats began to have a greater predominance of domestic feline genes. This made them easier to deal with. So today Bengals are adorable.

Also, they like to accompany their owner around the house and don't like to be left alone. Even so, they are quite independent and lavish energy.

This cat became a fever in Brazil, especially after 2016. At the time, surfer Gabriel Medina, as well as actress Grazi Massafera, adopted cats of this breed. Still, in the United States and other countries celebrities also started to appear with them.

And that, of course, greatly increased the demand for these pets. As a result, even in 2016, the queue for the purchase of Bengal cats, in Rio de Janeiro, exceeded 40 people. And, you know, the higher the demand and the lower the supply, the higher the prices.

This is also due to a series of authorizations that a breeder must have in order to breed animals of this breed. As a result, prices tend to be quite steep. Currently, its purchase demands amounts from R$ 4 thousand.

Still, there is an average ceiling value of the cat R$ 7 thousand. Therefore, there is a great investment here, which is especially due to the rarity and difference that this cat presents.

The Bengal cat is considered to be a medium to large cat. Thus, it is natural for their weight to vary between 5 and 9 kg. The height of the feline varies between 35 and 45 centimeters. The length can be 50 cm or more.

Still, this is a cat with a high life expectancy. According to experts, the average lifespan of the Bengal cat is 10 to 16 years. In this way, the more care you offer him, the greater the chances that your cat will live a long time.

On the other hand, consider that as it is the result of a cross between domestic and wild cats, the Bengal cat has a tendency to develop some diseases of a nervous and muscular nature.

Interested in the Bengal cat? For it is really difficult to resist its charms. However, before buying a Bengal cat to call your own, you need to know some of the care they require!

After all, in addition to the investment value in the purchase, they also require daily care and attention. So, see if the Bengal cat fits into your routine, home and pocket.

First, the Bengal cat requires a low-fat, high-concentration animal protein diet. So, guarantee him access to Premium and Super Premium rations.

The Bengal cat is extremely active and curious. So make sure he's protected inside your home and her land.

Still, this is a medium to large cat. He squanders energy, so he must have room to expend it. Because he is a little bigger, he may need more space than other domestic cats.

Also, the Bengal cat requires daily brushing of its thick fur. With this, you eliminate the already loose strands and dead cells present there. It also removes dirt that may be attached to the wires and prevents the development of microorganisms. Likewise, it leaves the coat always beautiful.

Finally, the Bengal cat likes water and needs periodic baths. So, once every 15 days or a month, remember to give him a good bath using products suitable for domestic cats.

Therefore, the Bengal cat requires care, but it is great company for its owners!

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