Wild cats do not use the litter box and do not eat cat food, what about the Bengal? One thing is for sure, Bengals love to eat! As any other domestic cat, such as the Persian cat or the Siamese, Bengals prefer a high-quality cat food and have no problems using the cat litter (wood or clay). Cats usually only refuse to use the litter periodically, if e.g. it has not been cleaned recently or the social order of the cat household has changed (by introducing a new kitty into an existing cat household). Patience is a virtue and things do usually return to normal fairly soon.

What do Bengals cost? The initial price you pay for a Bengal varies according to their appearance (conformance to standard) and whether you would like a pet companion or a breeder-show quality cat. Pets are usually sold with an alter agreement, however, exceptional alters may be shown with the breeder’s permission. You also have to consider yearly vaccinations, unforseen vet bills, toys (my cats love 'em!), high-quality food, etc.

Are Bengals indoor or outdoor cats? We strongly discourage the practice of letting your Bengal cat outdoors for the following reasons:

•  Health - Apart from the fact that the average life span of an outdoors domestic is a mere 3 years, many diseases can also be contracted outside – which can in certain cases put the entire household at risk.
•  Theft - Bengals also attract much attention due to their beautiful markings and most people wouldn’t mind letting such a remarkable 'stray' into their family. Not to mention the opportune few who would resell your cat for a considerable amount of money.
•  Accident – Outdoor cats are prone to various types of accidents, such as crossing streets, poisons, traps, extreme temperatures, fights, just to name a few. If you would like to offer your Bengal some fresh air, a secured window/balcony or an outdoor cat run may also be sufficient (and much safer, too!)

I’ve heard that Bengal cats are almost dog-like. Is this true? Bengals are extremely people-oriented felines, however, they are no bothersome attention seekers. They do like to be in the vicinity and check out whatever it is you’re doing and will follow you around the house like a dog. They are very friendly and outgoing. Bengals are extremely curious creatures and will most likely come up to you and smell and lick you before you get your first head butt.

Bengals tend to come when called upon (unless they don’t feel like it – they are cats after all!!) and one of my Bengals, Kiki, will steal my Great Dane’s bone and defend it (although that says more about the Dane’s personality than the cat’s!!). Most Bengals tend to like water and may want to join you during your morning shower! Others prefer to stand in a bowl of water or just stare at their beautiful reflection in the water for hours! Another intriguing feature that distinguishes the Bengal from other domestics is their very leopard-like prowl.

How big do Bengals get? The Bengal cat is a medium-sized cat : the average Bengal female is about 5-7 kg. and males are approximately 7-9 kg. This is about the same as any other house cat.