Choosing your Cats Temperament
For many, the first thing that they think of is what their Bengal will look like, which is not surprising given Bengals are visually stunning.
We recommend that you view videos and pictures of other kittens that the breeder has successfully placed, this will give you an idea of the temperament of the lines.
Whilst of course you will love choosing a beautifully coated kitten or cat, you will also be living with your companion so check to see what the breeder promotes for temperament, and what the particular Queens and Kings tend to produce.
As an example, in our breeding programme we have a Queen who is the sweetest lap cat, she is low energy and just wants to cuddle, she will sleep under the covers of your bed all night given the chance. Another of our Queens is super brave and just wants to play with everyone and everything, she loves to be pushed along the floor by her humans, and initiates play with our dog regularly!
Consider whether you want one cat or two, and if you have a dog whether the dog will get on with a cat. Bengals can be like children, friends keep them occupied and an occupied Bengal is a happy Bengal who is less likely to display unwanted negative behaviour and more inclined to be a relaxed, happy and fun addition to the family.
Choosing your Breeder
Always choose a registered breeder, always.
Ask for the breeder’s registration number and check with their status with their stated governing body. This not only protects the breed from uneducated backyard breeders negatively influencing the promoted characteristics and diminishing breed standards, but also ensures that you will receive a socialised, healthy kitten or cat.
As a responsible breeder, your breeder should be offering desexed, microchipped, fully vaccinated and registered cats who have undergone a health check by a vet and come with a registration certificate, a kitten starter pack, temporary pet insurance coverage and guidance notes on how to look after your new kitten.
Breeders should be more than happy to share pedigrees which should show each ancestral cats registration number and with a note as to whether they were bred in Australia or imported from abroad to extend the genetic pool and lines.
You should also be invited to visit the cattery and meet the resident Kings and Queens, make sure you see them in their home and that they look happy and healthy.
You might also check to see if the breeder shows their cats. Whilst not imperative, it does demonstrate the breeder’s commitment to having a third party evaluate how well they are progressing in breeding to the standards set for Bengals in Australia. Cat shows are incredibly inclusive and friendly and provide invaluable breeder support and input, and a progress check on a breeder’s programme and cattery.
A good breeder should be more than happy to provide you with references and to provide ongoing advice and support. Your journey with your Bengal is not a one-off transaction, and your relationship with your breeder shouldn’t be either!