The Bengal
cat came about during the late 1970s: Cat Breeders wanted to
produce a cat with a spotted pattern and similar colors and
facial qualities similar to the Asian Leopard Cat. In order
to produce the Bengal Cat an Asian leopard cat was cross-bred
with a domestic shorthair brown tabby cat. Cat Breeders
were successful with producing the desired cat characteristics
but the Bengal Cat retained its 'wild cat roots' and behavior.
The Bengal
Cat has a large, sleek body with an untamed look. It is strong-boned
and very muscular. Its spotted coat pattern must cross
1st and 2nd generation kittens in order for it to remain in
future litters. The Bengal Cat Personality can be described
as wild and untamed with a definite hunting instinct. Breeders
recommend at least 5 generations removed from the cross-breeding
before you adopt the Bengal cat as a household pet.