Breed highlight: Bengal

Bengal cats are a taste of the wild life of their ancestors, bundled into one gorgeous package. Though barely domesticated, the bengal balances an active lifestyle with human affection.

Bengals are known for their appearance before their personality due to their unique and jungle look. Their coats are generally blonde and brown with leopard spots, with other unique colours such as blue, silver or red, and are generally considered a short-haired breed, though long-haired bengals cats do exist! They are considered medium or large sized cats, with their profile bolstered by strong and well-defined muscles. 

Their beautiful and unique appearance reflects their origin as a hybrid between a an Asian leopard cat to domestic cats (Prionailurus bengalensis × Felis catus). This hybridisation didn't just create their patterned experience, but their temperament and care needs as well. 

 

Temperament

Bengals are described as having a dog-like personality, fiercely loyal and attached to their family, while being generally friendly with all humans. Their daily life is very similar to that of a dog. 

Health considerations

Like all breeds, Bengals have health considerations to keep in mind. They can be prone to digestive sensitivities, arthritis, hip and knee displacements and certain genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). To manage and hopefully avoid these issues, it is vitally important to keep up with their grooming, exercise, and nutrition. 

In terms of grooming, regular hair grooming and teeth brushing is vital for comfort and health. Daily teeth brushing or dental chews, and three-weekly coat brushing with special attention in shedding season is the ideal schedule. Although many Bengals develop a fascination with water and will happily join you at the sink or even the shower — and a splash in the bath is a fun time for this unique breed — regular baths are not necessary unless the bengal gets visibly dirty. 

If you want to get a cat so you don't have to play with them and take them on walks, don't get a bengal! Bengals are highly intelligent and incredibly active, with the spirit of the leopard. They love to climb, leap, and explore every corner of their environment, often surprising owners with their clever problem-solving skills. A sedentary environment will lead to destroyed furniture, unsocialised behaviours and constant meows, chirps and screeches as they beg to use their brain and body. If putting a cat on a harness and taking a walk isn't right for you, there are other options in the safety of home. Puzzle toys, climbing shelves, and interactive play sessions work very well to engage their brains and burn physical energy. 

As a raw pet food brand, we obviously think nutrition is very important! Their lean, muscular bodies and high energy levels benefit from a biologically appropriate diet, rich in high-quality animal protein and fats. A fresh or minimally processed diet can support shiny coats, healthy digestion, and consistent energy — helping your Bengal feel as vibrant as they look. Bella & Boots raw feline blends are the perfect mix of low but nourishing fats, biologically available proteins and fibre, created by a vet to provide your cat with everything they need.

Bengals are not just a beautiful face; they are bold, playful, and deeply engaging companions. They thrive in households that embrace their energy, curiosity, and love of interaction. If you’re looking for a cat that combines wild beauty with affectionate intelligence, the Bengal might just be the perfect fit.

If you’re hoping to bring a Bengal into your life here in Australia, there are a few paths you can explore beyond just searching online classifieds. Occasionally, Bengal cats come into care through dedicated rescues like Bengal Rescue Australia, which works with shelters and foster carers to rehome Bengals that need a fresh start, including retired breeding cats and those needing a second chance in a calm, permanent home. In Queensland and nearby states, groups such as Small Paws Animal Rescue have had purebred Bengals listed for adoption — While Bengals aren’t as commonly found in general shelters compared with domestic short hairs or moggies, it does happen, especially with adult cats or those rehomed from breeders who want to ensure they go to a good home. Keep an eye out on these groups as well as local shelters.

If you're desperate for a Bengal, spend a lot of time researching breeders who are transparent about health testing, temperament, and breed standards — for example, breeders who screen their cats for conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), PK‑Deficiency, and other genetic health markers, raise kittens in a family environment, and keep them until at least 12‑14 weeks of age before they go home with you.  In Queensland, established Bengal breeders such as Bengal Cats Australia and CatEmpire Bengals offer opportunities to meet with breeders who can show you health clearances and answer questions about long‑term care — just be sure to do your homework, ask for registration papers, and verify good breeding practices so you’re welcoming a healthy, well‑socialised cat into your home. Look specifically for certifications or affiliations such as the Cat Fancier's Association and Australian National Cats Inc (ANCATS).