When it comes to their looks, Bengals are a unique cat breed with their exotic coats and, in general, bigger sizes. But do these gorgeous pets need any particular attention?
Bengal cats do not need special care, simply look after the kitty like you would normally do. With that being said, Bengals tend to have higher energy levels than other breeds, so providing them with plenty of toys and playtime is definitely necessary.
Do Bengal Cats Need Special Care?
Bengals don’t require any special care. In fact, owning a Bengal cat is no different than being the owner of any other breed.
However, do bear in mind that going for F4, F5, and later filial generations is recommended as the previous generations might be a bit too wild.
In general, Bengals also have higher energy levels than other cats, so you would have to make sure that your pet has enough toys to play with (by the way, Bengal cats love water).
Are Bengal Cats High Maintenance?
Actually, Bengal cats are relatively low maintenance. All you would have to do is:
- Comb the pet to remove dead hairs (and prevent hairballs) every week
- Trim the nails every few weeks
- Provide a fresh litter box on a regular basis
- Provide enough toys to engage the cat and spend some time playing with the gorgeous kitty
Read: Bengal Cat Colors: Every Color & Pattern Combo You Should See
Do Bengal Cats Need Another Cat?
You don’t exactly need to get another cat as Bengals can be perfectly happy being the only cat.
But if you’re thinking about getting another furry ball, you can definitely do that as the lovely kitties will do a great job at keeping each other entertained.
Can Bengal Cat Be Left Alone?
Bengals can be left alone for a few hours (while you’re at work, for example), but not for longer. Unlike a lot of other breeds, these cats need company, and being left alone can trigger sadness and even depression.
Moreover, Bengal cats can get bored very quickly, if there is no one to play with them. So, make sure to provide plenty of entertainment options before leaving the house.
Read: Is My Bengal Cat Depressed?
How Much Space Do Bengal Cats Need?
Bengals can get pretty large (grown-ups typically weigh between 12 and 22 pounds), so such a cat might not be the perfect option for people with small apartments.
However, if you are willing to properly organize the space and dedicate a couple of hours per day for playing, then the Bengal is not going to care about how much free space there is.
Hint: use the vertical space (especially, if you have a small apartment) – Bengals love to climb and jump.
What Is the Most Low Maintenance Cat?
The most low-maintenance breeds are the ones that can amuse themselves while you’re away, that don’t require too much brushing, and the ones that are affectionate, but not needy.
The British Shorthair, the Russian Blue, and the Scottish Fold are usually the breeds that are recommended for first-time owners and those looking for low-maintenance kitties.
Read: Why You Shouldn’t Own a Bengal Cat?
What Should I Know Before Buying a Bengal Cat?
- Know the cat’s generation crossing (the lower the ‘F’ number, the wilder the cat)
- Bengals can be quite noisy
- They are great hunters (Bengals might end up stalking and attacking small animals)
- These cats are extremely energetic and they would demand long hours of play
- This is a dog-like breed that likes water and playing fetch. Bengals can also be taught different commands and they can walk on a leash
Are Bengal Cats Indoor Cats?
Any cat breed can thrive indoors. The great outdoors simply provides the animals with plenty of entertainment options, but if you’re ready to play with your cat indoors, then there is no need in letting him roam outside.
Moreover, pets can get injured outside or catch a disease, so keeping the kitty indoors is definitely a lot safer.
Hint: if you are willing to let your Bengal cat explore the outside, put him on a leash.
Can You Take a Bengal Cat on a Walk?
You don’t need to walk your Bengal, but it can become fun entertainment for your precious pet.
Tip: opt for a harness as it allows the kitty to jump and play more freely (pick one that is made out of 100% cotton).
Of course, you would have to spend some time training the Bengal. At first, leave the harness on only for a short time and praise the cat with treats.
Read: Bengal Cat Personality: Everything You Need To Know
Should I Get 2 Bengal Cats?
If you can get a pair of kittens, then you should definitely do that. The little guys will do a great job at keeping each other entertained and fit.
Moreover, Bengals are social animals and it would be a lot easier for the cat to cope with loneliness when you’re away if there is a friend to play with.
Experts recommend getting two males or a male and a female. Ideally, you would want to adopt the furry balls while they’re still kittens.
Are Bengal Cats Noisy?
Bengal cats are, in fact, one of the most vocal cat breeds. They love to communicate and will meow or howl every time when they want their needs to be met.
Why Do Bengal Cats Meow So Much?
Usually, Bengals start meowing when they want to draw your attention to something.
- The cat is hungry
- The Bengal wants attention (if that’s the case, the pet will also follow you around)
- The kitty is in significant discomfort/pain
- The Bengal is defending his territory
- The cat is simply bored (that’s one of the main reasons why Bengals meow at night)
Will Bengal Cats Sleep with You?
Bengals will fall asleep only in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. If you have a very strong bond with the cat, then he would, most likely, fall asleep with you.
Do Bengal Cats Attach to One Person?
These cats will love almost anyone who is going to take proper care of them. But Bengals are known to become more attached to a particular person in a household (usually, the one who spends more time with the pet).
Are Bengal Cats Hypoallergenic?
Bengals are considered to be ‘hypoallergenic’ which means that they are less likely to cause an allergy than other cat breeds.
How Much Should I Pay for a Bengal Kitten?
When buying from a reputable breeder, be prepared to pay anywhere between $1,500 and $3,000 for a Bengal kitten.
How Can You Tell If a Bengal Cat Is Purebred?
The looks of the cat can, unfortunately, be deceiving. Only appropriate paperwork or a genetic test will help you distinguish a purebred Bengal.
Read: Are Bengal Cats High Maintenance?
How to Take Care of a Bengal Kitten
- Find a good vet
- Shop for quality food (growing kittens might need three times more calories than the adults!)
- Set up a feeding schedule and keep the water bowl fresh and filled at all times
- Prepare a special quiet area for the kitten (the room you start with will become the cat’s go-to room for safety)
- Always watch for early signs of illness (poor weight gain, vomiting, nasal discharge, etc.)
- Spend time with your precious kitten (handle or play with him at least 2-3 times per day)