“Loved by those who appreciate its inquisitive and loving nature, the Bengal is a medium to large cat renowned for its richly colored, highly contrasted coat of vivid spots or distinctive marbling. Originally developed from crosses between domestic cats and the Asian Leopard Cat, the Bengal is the only domestic cat that can have rosettes like the markings on Leopards, Jaguars and Ocelots. Today’s domestic Bengal cat comes only from breeding Bengals to other Bengals and requires no specialized care. Since their beginnings in 1986, the Bengal’s regal beauty and alluring charm has quickly made it one of the most popular breeds in the world. Employing scientific insights and a cooperative spirit, Bengal breeders continue to develop these stunning cats with careful selection for temperament, health and beauty. Bengals participate in TICA shows throughout the world and have a devoted following of happy pet owners who couldn’t imagine sharing their lives with anything other than these feline beauties.”

TICA, The International Cat Association

Coat/Color/Pattern: Short to medium, dense and luxurious, close-lying, unusually soft and silky to the touch coat. Patterns: Spotted and marbled. The spots on the spotted Bengal shall be random, or aligned horizontally. Rosettes showing two distinct colors or shades are preferred to single spotting, but not required. Contrast with ground color must be extreme, displaying a distinct pattern and sharp edges. Strong, bold chin strap and mascara markings are desirable. Virtually white undersides and belly, shoulder streaks, spotted legs and a spotted or rosetted tail are also desirable. Belly must be spotted. Allowable colors: Brown Tabby, Seal Sepia, Seal Mink, Seal Lynx Point Tabby, Silver Tabby and resulting Silver Seals.

For more information on the Bengal Breed Standard and a pictorial description See Bengals Illustrated The Great Design