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.