Bengal Information

Bengal Cat FAQs

Are Bengal cats hypoallergenic?

Bengal cats have a smooth, short coat that is low-shedding, making them a potential option for people with mild allergies. However, because allergens are in cats’ saliva and skin, not just the fur, no cat breed can be considered entirely hypoallergenic.

How much is a Bengal cat?

Depending on the generation, Bengal cat costs range from $1,500–$4,000. Along with breeder or adoption fees, it’s important to also budget for routine care and unexpected medical expenses.

Are Bengal cats good house pets?

Bengal cats can be good house pets for experienced cat parents looking for an energetic and intelligent feline companion. They have an unusual appearance and personality that reflect both their wild Asian leopard cat and domestic cat heritage. Lower generations, usually F1 or F2 Bengals, tend to be larger and more energetic than higher generations. F3 Bengals and up are more mellow and smaller in size.

Are Bengal cats legal in the US?

Laws regarding ownership of hybrid cats, such as Bengals and Savannahs, vary from state to state. Therefore, it’s important to check with your local lawmakers for specific regulations concerning Bengals before adopting or purchasing one. Some states prohibit owning Bengal cats, while others may allow ownership outside of urban areas if the cat is of a certain generation.

Bengal Cat Personality and Temperament:

Bengals are very active and curious felines, more than a typical lap cat. They require a lot of stimulation and enrichment for their playful personality, Frione says, and they’re not afraid to vocalize their needs. Sharing a household with dogs and other cats may be okay with proper introductions, according to Frione. However, Bengals tend to be more territorial than other domestic cat breeds and they have a high prey drive, so smaller pets—or pets that are timid—might not be good companions for a big Bengal. They can happily live in a house or apartment, as long as there’s enough vertical space for exercise. Cat trees, scratching posts, and cat shelves can all turn a small space into a cat-friendly abode. 

Bengal Behavior:

Kitten-proofing your home before welcoming a Bengal is a good idea. These cats (especially Bengal kittens) have a propensity for getting into things they shouldn’t. Their curiosity and intelligence lead them to entertaining antics, like their love of water and knack for learning new tricks. Like any cat, boredom can lead to destructive behaviors. So, always ensure your Bengal has plenty of opportunities to run, jump, and play. After a full day of exploration, don’t be surprised to find your Bengal kitty curling up beside you for a long catnap.

Bengal Training:

According to Frione, learning new tricks is a favorite pastime of most Bengal cats and kittens. They’re also popular candidates for leash and harness training, because they feel right at home in the great outdoors. However, never let your Bengal cat roam outdoors off-leash, as they can easily get into trouble.