Bengal Cat

A Bengal is, in fact, the result of a successful mating between a very ordinary black tom and an Asian Leopard Cat (see pic). Or, as they're more commonly referred to, an ALC. An ALC is a small, feral cat, native to the jungles of Asia. In size, it's not unlike domestic cats all over the globe - and seriously, it's not even close to resembling your average 'humping a gazelle up a tree' Leopard.

The Bengal of today is (or should be) a minimum of four generations from the ALC. Most are, due to the length of time that the original Bengals first appeared. So there you go; the cold hard facts of what a Bengal really is. Sorry if you're disappointed. But at least I've told you the truth.

The Bengal cat is simply a domestic cat. An interesting and altogether charismatic breed, of that there's no doubt. But they are not to be confused with their much bigger, feral and wholly dangerous cousins. If you have any notions about a miniature leopard stalking the wilds of your back yard, eliminate them. What you will get is a delightful, energetic and altogether wonderful pet. But still a domestic one, no more, no less.

It's worth pointing out that if you are considering one, and have never previously owned one, then you should research the breed. Providing you ignore the spurious rubbish, you should easily become more knowledgeable. This is probably the best piece of advice I can give to any prospective new Bengal cat owner. Knowledge is a powerful tool and it will help you make an informed decision. As opposed to a badly informed one. Bad decisions usually result in, well, bad things.

On the downside, Bengals can be a handful. Sometimes, one Bengal is worse than a whole bucketful of mad frogs. Bengals can be very tiresome, due to the amount of energy they expend. Plus they are typically consummate predators; therefore predation is a part of their nature. If you care about the local wildlife population and don't want most of it turning up lifeless around your property, don't consider a Bengal.

If someone invents a 25 hour day, I may one day share the story about my old neighbours disappearing Koi carp. And the fact that whatever vanished from his pond was usually to be found firmly embedded in the jaws of one of my cats. Like the bird in the above picture. I saved it by the way. I had to exchange the live bird for the leg of a dead one. A chicken drumstick.

On the other hand, they're incredibly loving animals and adore spending time around the family. Some appear to have favourite 'people' but generally, anyone will do. They're a quirky, demanding, entertaining and altogether marvellous cat, as long as you know what to expect. Having owned what amounts to a small glare of Bengals since 1995, I've learned the hard way.

This is why I recommend others to read the small print first. If a Bengal is in your future, I can at least confirm the fact that you've opened the door to a whole world of fun you would have otherwise missed. Not to mention a great deal of shenanigans and thorough feline naughtiness. Consider yourselves duly warned.

Sorry, I meant informed.