Bengal kittens

[Thebig3]

Hello, I'm after some advice about Bengal cats. We are looking to get one as after lots of research we have found they are one of the best breeds for people who have asthma.

Does anyone have any advice or tips about finding the best place to buy a Bengal from etc? Thanks

[MiniLeopardInTheHouse]

Hi OP. We've got a Bengal. A large adult male. He came to us aged about 18 months from a sanctuary. My main advice is to do your research thoroughly on their temperament and requirements before committing. Like a small number of other breeds, Bengals are no ordinary cats. I would say that they are not for the faint-hearted or inexperienced. The cute kitten is likely to turn into a handsome, interesting and intelligent but also large, powerful, challenging and needy cat.

I have a lifetime's experience of cats and absolutely adore them, but the 3 years so far with our boy have been a challenge. A rewarding challenge, but still a challenge. It's fair to say that some of his issues have been to do with previous neglect, abuse and then abandonment. Obviously you wouldn't have that with a kitten if you ensure that it genuinely does come from a good breeder. However, some of his issues are definitely 'normal for Bengals'.

Please do your research OP. So many Bengals end up in Rescues because people have bitten off more than they can chew, and didn't realise what they were taking on. Please don't base your decision on them POSSIBLY IN SOME CASES being SLIGHTLY LESS LIKELY to aggravate asthma or allergies.

[Fluffycloudland77]

My husbands asthma got worse after getting the Bengal. He’s on two inhalers now.

They are not an easy breed. A lot end up being rehomed due to the temperament or problems with spraying around the house.

[EatSleepCake]

I have 2 bengals and a family member has really bad asthma/allergy's to them

[CatchingBabies]

I don't know what you've read but Bengals trigger asthma the same as any cat will regardless of the breed. Sorry if it's not what you want to hear. Siberians are supposedly hypoallergenic for those with cat allergies although some people still react to them so allergy testing is recommended but if it's the fur (it's usually the saliva in allergies) that triggers even a Siberian won't help.

[Libbylongtree]

Hi, can’t comment on allergy but we have a Bengal and he is the most affectionate cat I have ever had. Generally he’s not destructive or aggressive but he does need to be able to go outside - he has a lot of pent up energy if he’s been cooped up indoors all day (he hates the rain!). If you’re in the south east I can thoroughly recommend his breeder, pm me if you’re interested.

[EmmaC78]

I echo looking at the breed personality more closely before getting one. I have had at least 10 cats over the years and find the Bengal by far the most challenging. Sadly I would say if I could turn back the clock i would not have got her. Not an easy cat at all.

[Fluffycloudland77]

I’d have another but I’d get a rescue. I’m now an expierienced Bengal owner ie used to protest wees & general destructive behaviour. They are hard work cats.

[EmmaC78]

It is the noise that I find a problem. The neighbour complained the other morning because she was so loud.

[Fluffycloudland77]

You get used to it. The neighbour ibu.

[WeaselsRising]

Obviously we've been lucky because we don't have any issues with our 4 yo Bengal boy. He hates being put in the box to go to the vet but other than that he has no issues. He has never sprayed and doesnt bite like our moggy did.

[EmmaC78]

You get used to it.

I have had her since she was a kitten and she is now 17 and the noise still drives me mad. How long does it take to get used to it?

[Fluffycloudland77]

Mines only 9. Does it not seem awfully quiet when she’s not there?.