Machine Name
cat
Devon Rex
Devon Rex
Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is sometimes called a poodle that purrs, due to her curly coat and wagging tail when she is happy. Also described as the pixie of the cat world, the Devon Rex has a pixielike face and large, inquisitive eyes. This extraordinarily social cat is a wonderful family pet that gets along well with cats and cat friendly dogs. A highly active breed, the Devon Rex is known for her clownlike antics.

DID YOU KNOW? Originally, it was thought that Devon Rex and Cornish Rex shared the same spontaneous genetic mutation responsible for their curly coats. When breeders realized that the cats had separate genetic variations, the first rexed cats, the Cornish Rex, were referred to as Gene I Rex and the Devon Rex as Gene II Rex.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Small to medium, with males weighing 3 to 4.5 kilograms and females weighing 2 to 3.5 kilograms
Coat
 Short
Temperament
Mischievous, clownlike, highly interactive
Grooming
 Daily
Shedding
 Minimal
Vocalisation
 Gentle voice, purrs incessantly
Personality

Devon Rex cats are fondly described as 'little terrors' and 'monkeys in cats' clothing' with antics such as swinging from the curtains and climbing the wallpaper! They are lively and extrovert cats. They have several 'dog-like' qualities, such as a fondness for fetching toys, and can be trained to walk on a harness and lead. They are very gentle and loving cats, and hate to be bored or alone. Visitors to the house may be surprised to find that they are thoroughly investigated by a nosy Devon Rex cat before they have a chance to sit down!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England (county of Devon)The Devon Rex cat breed stems from a curly-coated cat found in Devon in 1960. Like the Cornish Rex cat breed, the Devon cat's coat is caused by a recessive gene, and inbreeding was necessary to perpetuate the breed. The Devon cat gene is, however, different to that which curls the coat of the Cornish Rex, and crossing Devon Rex cats and Cornish Rex cats produces litters of straight-coated kittens. The two mutations must have arisen independently, despite arising so close geographically, ie, in Devon and Cornwall. Within 10 years of discovery, the breed was recognised in Britain.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Because of the nature of its coat, the Devon Rex cat can be prone to yeast infections of the skin that can cause ear problems, greasy deposits on the skin and itching. Rexes can also be prone to baldness, a disorder known as hypotrichosis. Because of the back-crossing needed to establish the breed's initial gene pool, there have in the past been genetic spasticity problems associated with the breed (known as Devon Rex myopathy), but careful breeding has all but eliminated this now.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Cymrics
Cymrics
Cymrics

The Cymric cat breed is solidly built and chunky with a similar body type to the British Shorthair cat breed with large eyes and widely spaced ears. The lack of a tail is the breed's most outstanding feature. Its hind legs are longer than the front legs. The Cymric cat's hair is thick and provides a layer of padding over the main body, adding to the round appearance. A rabbit-like hop can sometimes be seen in Cymric cats because of the spinal deformity, similar to spinabifida, which associated with the taillessness. Cymric cats come in all colours and patterns, except the pointed Siamese cat breed type.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming every day
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Personality

The Cymric cat is a very quiet, playful and intelligent cat. It can be a little shy and reserved around strangers and tends to bond very closely with one individual. It is a breed that seems to keep its kitten-like behaviour well into adulthood.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Isle of Man (UK)/Canada

 

The Cymric cat breed is a semi-longhaired version of the Manx cat. Despite its name, which derives from Cymru the Celtic name for Wales, it originates from the Isle of Man. Tailless cats are common on the Isle of Man where inbreeding among the island cats allowed a naturally occurring tailess gene mutation to spread. As for the Manx cat, litters of Cymric kittens can have stumpy tails of various lengths (classed as rumpy-risers, stumpies, and longies) or no tails at all (rumpy). Breeding programmes in Canada in the 1960s lead to popularity of Cymrics in the USA where only completely tailless animals are shown.

 

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The lack of a tail is a severe genetic defect and the Cymric cat's 'deformed' spine may cause health problems including arthritis from an early age. In some cats the anal passage may be narrowed and this can cause bowel blockages. As with all cats, Cymric cats and kittens need vaccinations, parasite control and annual veterinary health checks.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex

Bat-eared, big-eyed and wavy-coated, the Cornish Rex has a distinctive look and exceptionally silky coat due to not having guard hairs like other breeds. This active cat has a small, whippetlike body and loves to climb, leap and sprint. With kittenlike antics that last a lifetime, this feline likes to be where the action is. The Cornish Rex is perfect for those who want a cat to participate in their family life.

DID YOU KNOW? On July 21, 1950, in Cornwall, England, Nina Ennismore discovered that her domestic British Shorthair, a tortoiseshell-and-white cat named “Serena,” had given birth to a cream-colored male with tight rows of tiny curls that looked like a miniature lamb. Ennismore named the kitten “Kallibunker” and the breed Rex as it resembled the wavy fur of the Astrex rabbits she raised and exhibited.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Small to medium, with males weighing 3 to 4 kilograms and females weighing 2 to 3 kilograms
Coat
Short, extremely soft and silky
Temperament
Extremely affectionate, intelligent, fun-loving
Grooming
Rarely/Never
Shedding
Minimal
Vocalisation
 Generally quiet
Personality

Cornish Rex cats have a mischievous side to their character and a personality that can almost be described as forever young! Rexes are very intelligent, enjoy playing and love to learn new tricks. They will happily play fetching games for hours on end. While they are lively cats, they do have quieter times when they are happy to curl up in a lap. Cornish Rex cats can become cold quickly and will always seek out the warmest place to sleep.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England (county of Cornwall)The Cornish Rex cat breed owes its existence to a natural mutation that was discovered in a kitten born to a farm cat in Cornwall in 1950 - it had a curly coat It was mated back to its mother and two of the resulting litter were born with the curly coats that are now associated with the breed. The Devon Rex cat and Cornish Rex cat breed curly hair mutations are different. Crossing Devon Rex cats and Cornish Rex cats produces litters of straight-coated kittens!

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

One condition linked to the breed is hypotrichosis – hair loss leading to baldness. The unusual coat predisposes the cat to certain skin conditions including excessive yeast infection.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Chinchilla
Chinchilla
Chinchilla

The Chinchilla cat comes in one colour - white with green eyes. It has a broad head with small wide-set ears and a short open face. The eyes are large and round with brilliant colour. Although the Chinchilla cat tends to be more finely boned than most Persian cats, its legs are still fairly short, thick and strong. The tail is short and bushy. The coat is long, thick and luxuriant with a dense, soft undercoat.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Calm cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Quiet cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming everyday
  • Needs some out-door space
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Personality

The Chinchilla cat is sweet tempered, loving and affectionate. Persian-types are generally known to be fairly inactive and quiet. The Chinchilla cat breed is said to be more outgoing and extrovert than most Persian cats.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

 

The Chinchilla cat breed is really a specific type of Persian cat. The breed comes in one colour - a pure white coat that is subtly tipped with black to produce a silvery sheen. Its emerald green eyes are distinctively lined with black. The Chinchilla cat breed was the first cat to have been selectively bred for a specific colour. It was first shown in 1894 in Crystal Palace, London.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Chinchilla cat breed is a type of Persian and there is some overlap between the Chinchilla cat type and other Persian Longhairs, so many of the problems of the Persian cat can also occur in the Chinchilla cat breed. Because the head shape has been shortened and the face flattened, there can be jaw deformities which can lead to dental disease and potential problems with eating and drinking. Small nostrils and a soft palate which is too long can also lead to severe breathing problems. The tear ducts may not follow their natural path and so the eyes run and wet the face constantly – this can lead to skin rashes and sores on the face. The flat nature of face also increases the chances of eye disease. Persians can carry a gene that leads to kidney failure (called autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease) through the development of cysts in the kidney. This condition was found in more than a third of all Persian cats and Exotic shorthaired cats in the 1990s when screening tests became available and although it seemed less prevalent in Chinchillas, it was still there. Using screening, breeders are now working to try to eradicate the problem – always ask the breeder to show the PKD certificates for the cats used to produce your kitten.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Burmilla
Burmilla
Burmilla

The Burmilla cat breed is of medium build, similar to Burmese cats, with a sturdy, well muscled body and a strong straight back. The female is much smaller and daintier than the male. The head has a gently rounded dome, a wedge shaped muzzle and wide set ears. The expressive eyes may be any colour from gold through to green. The coat is short and close lying with a pale undercoat and even 'tipping' (darker colour at the tip of the hairs) over the rest of the body and a distinct 'M' marking on the forehead.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Playful and curious cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
Personality

There are no specific conditions relating to Asians in the veterinary literature, however, there may be a tendency for this group to develop conditions associated with the Burmese. Some lines of this breed appear to be more susceptible to diabetes mellitus than other breeds.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain

 

The Burmilla cat is a shorthaired member of the Asian cat breed group. The breed was created in 1981 by an accidental mating between a male Chinchilla cat and a lilac female Burmese cat. The kittens looked and behaved like a Burmese cats but they had the stunning silver colouring and the tipped markings of the Chinchilla cat breed. In fact, so much interest was generated that the pair were allowed to mate again, and from there a new breed was formed.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

There are no specific conditions relating to Asians in the veterinary literature, however, there may be a tendency for this group to develop conditions associated with the Burmese. Some lines of this breed appear to be more susceptible to diabetes mellitus than other breeds.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Burmese
Burmese
Burmese

An extremely people-oriented breed, the Burmese is frisky and mischievous well into adulthood. Craving close contact, she loves to cuddle in warm laps. With an almost doglike personality, the Burmese can be taught to retrieve. This breed is good with children and tolerates cat friendly dogs. Having a short, satinlike coat and compact body, this cat has large, expressive eyes that are one of the breed’s endearing traits.

DID YOU KNOW? The Burmese originated from cats that came from the Malay Peninsula of Southeast Asia, where these highly prized felines were the personal pets of the head priest. Referred to as “Rajah” cats, they were loved and honored by old Burmese kings.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
 Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium, with males weighing 3.5 to 5 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 4 kilograms
Coat
Short
Temperament
Playful, spirited, can be stubborn
Grooming
Rarely/Never
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Never loud, having a soft, sweet voice
Personality

The Burmese cat is an extremely friendly and affectionate creature that needs attention from human beings to be happy. The Burmese cat breed is very demanding and Burmese cats will follow owners around the house crying for attention – they might even climb their owner's leg begging to be picked up and cuddled! As very vocal cats they will often greet owners when they return home or demand what they want and to join in with all activities. Loyal to their owners, they are sometimes known as the 'dog cat' as many are happy to play retrieve. They are very intelligent and can work out problems such as opening doors are often successful escape artists!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Burma

 

A dark brown cat, resembling a Siamese cat in shape, was first taken from the far east to California in the 1930s. As there were no other Burmese cats in America at the time, the 'Wong Mau' breed was mated with a Seal Point Siamese cat. Through selective breeding a new dark coated breed became known as the Burmese cat we know today. The Burmese cat was first recognised as a breed in American and came to Europe in the 1940s. Breeding programmes have since developed a range of coat colours.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Burmese cats are quite robust healthwise but some lines of the breed do seem to be susceptible to diabetes mellitus. Hypokalaemic polymyopathy (muscle weakness due to low levels of blood potassium) is seen occasionally in young Burmese cats. A few Burmese cats have developed an unusual condition called feline orofacial pain syndrome. This condition causes exaggerated licking and chewing movements, and pawing at the mouth, which can be very distressing for the cat. In the USA there has been a problem with a head and brain deformity but is not reported in the UK. Some lines of Burmese cat breeds also have unusual eating habits and will eat wool garments and other inedible items (this is known as pica).

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.

 

British Shorthair
British Shorthair
British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is affectionate without being clingy and enjoys curling up beside you rather than being a lap cat. The Brit is a healthy, hardy feline that matures slowly in three to five years. Playful, alert and intelligent, this cat loves children. Though reserved with strangers, this breed quickly warms up when love is given in return. The British Shorthair is compact, well-balanced and powerful, with a short, dense, plush coat.

DID YOU KNOW? The oldest English cat breed, the British Shorthair traces its ancestry to the domestic cat of Rome. Originally a working cat used to control rodents, the breed eventually was appreciated for its beauty, strength and loyal companionship.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic Size
Coat
Short, plush, dense
Temperament
Affectionate, easygoing, calm
Grooming
 Weekly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Talks infrequently, but is a loud purrer
Personality

Some consider British Shorthair cats as the 'gentle giants' of the cat world. They are loving and affectionate with people and other animals. British Shorthair cats do not continuously demand human attention and are quieter than their Oriental counterparts, nor do they have the curious nature that gets many Oriental cat breeds into trouble!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain

 

The British Shorthair cat is, by far, the most popular pedigree breed of cat in the UK. Although there are only written records for the British Shorthair cat that date back to the beginning of the century, the breed has been in existence for hundreds of years. They were exported in large numbers to the New World where they were very popular. The variety of colours and coat patterns available today have come about from the selective breeding of the best street cats during the nineteenth century and continuing careful breeding plans to the present day.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

British Shorthair cats are generally a robust breed without too many problems. Because they have been bred with Persian cats in the past there is small chance of a being affected by polycystic kidney disease. This disease causes kidney problems because of the cysts or holes which develop progressively. There is a gene test available so it is definitely worth asking the breeders about the status of their cats - good breeders should know about it.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Bombay
Bombay
Bombay

A people-oriented breed, the Bombay enthusiastically greets visitors. This easygoing feline is sweet, affectionate and curious. The Bombay enjoys playing fetch, going for leash walks and inventing entertainment. This breed is known for its beautiful gold to copper eyes and short, flat, gleaming coat that accentuates a solid, muscular body. A devoted companion, the Bombay gets along well with children and other pets.

DID YOU KNOW? The Bombay was developed by breeder Nikki Horner of Louisville, Ky. Through a long process of careful selection, she consistently produced a hybrid black cat that combines the easygoing temperament of the American Shorthair and the social, inquisitive, lap-loving character of the Burmese.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Calm cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium, with males weighing 3.5 to 5 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 4 kilograms
Coat
Short
Temperament
Affectionate, friendly
Grooming
Monthly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Talkative
Personality

Cats in the Asian cat breed group are extremely friendly and affectionate. Bombay cats have unique voices and are usually very vocal. They are not a traditional.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Britain and USAThe Bombay cat is one of the Asian group of cats brought about by breeders attempting to create cats of Burmese type, in colours not recognised in the Burmese. In the UK, the Bombay cat is the black version of the Asian cat breed.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Bombay cats are generally long lived and can live well into their late teens. There aren't any known diseases associated specifically with this breed which is only present in the UK in low numbers.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Birman
Birman
Birman

With her marvelous, social personality, the Birman doesn’t like being the only animal in the house. She is active and playful but quiet if you are busy. This healthy, long-lived breed has an outstanding semi-long silky coat that does not mat and a luxurious, long bottle-brush tail. Brilliant blue, almost-round eyes are prominent features of her sweet expression.

DID YOU KNOW?: A cat of mystery and legend, the Birman was the sacred cat of Burma, believed to be the companions of the priests of the temple.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming everyday
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium to large, with males weighing 4 to 7 kilograms and females weighing 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms
Coat
Medium to long
Temperament
Affectionate, active, social
Grooming
Daily
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Generally soft-spoken
Personality

Birman cats are known as especially loving and affectionate breeds, having been bred as companion cats for many generations. They are docile and quietly spoken. Birman cats are sociable, smart and friendly cats, curious and people-oriented, but not too noisy.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Burma/France

 

Other Names: : Sacred cat of Burma

 

While there is no clear record of the origin of Birman cats, one pair was taken to France around 1919, from which the breed became established in the western world. However, Birman cats were almost wiped out as a breed during World War II and were heavily outcrossed with long-hair breeds (mainly Persians) and also Siamese lines to rebuild the breed. By the early 1950s, pure Birman cat litters were once again being produced. The restored breed was recognised in Britain in 1965.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

Some young Birman cats show evidence of impaired kidney function on blood tests – the significance is not certain but some may go on to develop kidney failure.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.

 

Bengal
Bengal
Bengal

The regal beauty and alluring charm of the Bengal make this feline one of the most popular breeds. Its richly coloured, highly contrasted coat of vivid spots or distinctive marbling, similar to jungle cats, is stunning. A docile, civilised house cat, the Bengal enjoys playing, chasing, climbing, and investigating. This breed is affectionate and adores being wherever you are.

DID YOU KNOW? The Bengal, which takes its name from the scientific name for Asian Leopard Cat, Priionailurus bengalensis, is the only domestic cat that has rosettes like the markings on leopards, jaguars and ocelots.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Friendly but independent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Outdoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children
Living Considerations
Good for multi-pet households, not hypoallergenic
Size
Medium to large, with males weighing 4.5 to 8 kilograms and females weighing 3 to 5.5 kilograms
Coat
Medium
Temperament
Affectionate, energetic, rambunctious
Grooming
Monthly
Shedding
Yes
Vocalisation
Ranges from quiet to vocal
Personality

Bengal cats have an affectionate disposition. They have an extremely energetic, playful nature. Bengal cats are intelligent and seem to look at everything around them as, 'can this be played with?' They are agile, love to climb and can be vocal with a distinctive voice which has been described as a cooing or chirping, or as a strange gravelly sound. Bengal cats are a very vocal breed and have a wide vocabulary that may on occasion be quite strident, especially in unfamiliar situations. They need companionship during the day to prevent boredom as well as opportunities to climb and simulate hunting.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USAThe Bengal cat is a relatively new breed of cat thatwas originally created by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat with a domestic cat in the USA. The Bengal cat derives its name from the Latin name of its wild ancestor, Felis Bengalensis (Asian Leopard Cat). The goal in developing the domestic Bengal cat breed was to preserve a strong physical resemblance to its beautiful wild ancestor and, at the same time, the new domestic breed was designed to be a pleasant and trustworthy family companion. Bengal cats are now ranked as the fifth most popular breed in the UK.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

There are not inherited defects listed for the Bengal cat breed yet but it is suggested that they may have a higher prevalence of a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy than some breeds. Some Bengal cats also seem to be more susceptible to feline infectious peritonitis.

 

Best cat breeds for children

 

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

 

Cat