(GENETIC FOUNDATIONS)
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Genetically, Bengal Cats are sometimes referred to as "domestic/Leopard"
hybrids, since they are descendants from a
cross between
two different breeds or genera (in this case,
between the ALC and the domestic shorthair cat). More correctly, however, most authorities
list the
first three generations as
true Leopard Cat Hybrids (a few sources list the first four). Some of the domestic felines used in early breedings to produce these hybrids were the Egyptian and Indian Maus, the Ocicat, the Burmese cat, and non-pedigreed domestic cats. The
offspring of these matings were
bred back to the ALC to establish, in a sense, the classic or
initial foundation cats. As an addendum, it is noted, at least as of 2008, that many states
do not allow ALC and other wild cats to be kept as pets, most notably, the states of New York and Georgia. However, some states, that are adopting such policies
do allow later generation ALC, beyond F-4, in the home.
- Likewise, with special permitting and under "protected species status,"
- abandoned wild cats can to be kept in zoo-like environments until suitable and safe habitats can be found for them. Many of these policies, however, are likely to be changed as states begin to crack-down on back-yard breeders (that keep wild animals under poor conditions).
- It is our opinion, that all states will probably adopt some form of "protection and use" policies and laws regarding the keeping of wild animals, which in the long run, will help all species, cats or otherwise.
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It is generally agreed, the first
three generation hybrids be referred to as the
foundation generations (FG) or
foundation Bengals, listed as
F1,
F2, and
F3; some in the
trade include the F4 in this category (the "F" designation comes from the latin word
filius, meaning
son. The genetic meaning of "Filia" refers to a generation or sequence of generations, following the parental generation). F1 to F4 are
not considered to be
domestic bengals (even though the F4, as an example, is listed at a
domesticated level by most authorities). However, despite minor points of contention or disagreement, concerning the "filius" designation,
F4 and later generation Bengals are, for all intensive purposes, classified as
true domestics. They are also
listed and referred to as
SBT by official domestic cat organizations and by the general cat fancy (i. e.,
Studbook Tradition, TICA, 1984), and are eligible to be judged/exhibited at sanctioned cat shows. F1 to F3 cats, on the other hand, cannot be shown because of known or unpredictable behavior (i. e., they can be wild, and sometimes bite. In the early days, this was a problem when judging and examining such cats). Although the language or nomemclature of hybridization can be confusing, cross generational breedings can, nonetheless, be briefly summarized as follows:
F1 - is the cross between the ALC female and a domesticated male Bengal.
F2 - is the second generation cross, the offspring of the F1 and the domestic Bengal.
F3 - is the third generation cross, the offspring of the F2 and a Bengal.
F4 - is the cross between an F3 and a domestic Bengal (i. e., to be considered a true F4, the domestic Bengal must have, at least, an ALC great-great-grandparent in their "bloodlines").
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In terms of offspring, the breeding of the first three generations usually produces
infertile males (these cats are neutered and placed as pets into qualified homes); females are normally fertile. Concerning temperament and structure, any progeny of ALC and FG breedings will inherit, in variable gene combinations, the
genetic markers and attributes of their parents.
Generally, F1 hybrids have many of the physical features of the ALC, while F2 and F3 felines, and their SBT cousins, have more of a domestic
appearance. These observations are not surprising, however, since the
further each generation is removed from the ALC, the
look of the "wild cat" becomes
less (due to the greater
influence of the domestic genes). Likewise, since we are injecting, in a sense, a
genetic overlay of the domestic cat, creating a more complex gene pool, a
preponderance for specific traits can appear (i. e., the domestic genes for some attributes are
more easily expressed, become
more dominant, or, show
dominant tendencies). In fact, if one is not careful in their breeding program(s), the
influence and propensity of these genes can sometimes increase to the point where the offspring have very few of the distinguishing characteristics or "look" of the ALC. Here, the gene pool becomes
significantly diluted and the primary genetic markers for
good Bengal type,
fade (literally). Therefore,
knowing your "bloodlines," and always
maintaining good breeding stock are very important to the successful breeder. (As an addendum, we acknowledge that there are many BACKYARD breeders, the so-called "cat mills."
- Here, MONEY is the primary motive, whereas the welfare and betterment of the breed is only an afterthought. This is unfortunate, but in a "free market" society such as ours, not totally unexpected. We can only hope that these people
quickly fail, as they discover that the care and overall maintenance of our beloved breed is not an easy undertaking).
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Due to the genetic influences of the domestic cat, some of the physical traits
not seen in the ALC, but which appear quite often in the DBC, are: shorter length bodies, overly large pointy ears that are vertically set, pronounced circular heads, to many vertical markings or bars, faded markings, sharp pointy long tails, and many unwanted colors or color combinations, among others. However, since the original intent of Mrs. Mill was to develop a feline with
the "Look" of the wild cat, but with the
stable behavior of the domestic, it is nice to know that
the genes responsible for
good temperament can be
easily expressed in later generations (in general, for cats greater then F4). As one would expect,
human interaction and
early socialization are also very important in overall behavioral development, and their importance
should never be underestimated.
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Briefly, in order to successfully
produce and maintain a gene pool for good Bengal type, one should have: (1) a fundamental understanding of their bloodlines and cat genetics (i. e., which characteristics tend to be dominant, and therefore, may be more easily expressed in the offspring), (2) keep accurate/descriptive records and pictures of all breedings, (3) are willing to invest
time and financial resources, (4) are judicious in selecting only the
best cats for breeding (
and know what "best" really means), (5) understand the
importance of maintaining a healthy cattery, and (6) are willing, if the need should arise, to enlist help and advice from the more experienced breeder (i. e., help in recognizing traits or genetic tendencies that can increase the chances of producing beautiful cats).
- Likewise, one must have
realistic expectations (not every kitten is going to be
top show or breeder quality),
be vigilant in over-seeing their program (have a clear idea where they are going), and have a
certain degree ofobjectivity. In this regard, the breeder must be willing to "clean house" when needed (petting-out/replacing non-producing cats, and introducing "new blood" in the process).
Here, a primary goal should always be
to improve the breed, so that
the offspring are better then the parents. Something as simple as an
out-cross to bring better attributes or characteristics into the "gene pool," or a specific
line-breeding to maintain good traits, are often
necessary. This does not happen overnight and may take many years to accomplish, as well as a lot of patience, hard work, money, the occassional heartache, and quite honestly, a "
roll of the dice," sometimes. Simply producing inferior cats to make a quick "buck" is not condoned by the serious and conscientious breeder. This short-sighted mentality, by what is commonly called, the "backyard breeder,"
only produces cats of poor quality. Such practice, significantly dilutes the gene pool for good bengal type, and,
in the long view, is detrimental to the breed. The process, then, to produce beautiful DBC's that have the "ALC look," can be challenging and frustrating at times, and to be honest,
is not for everyone.
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Without going into great detail, solid spots and rosettes, adequate coloring, and to a degree, proper body length, tail, and good whisker pads, are
fairly easy to reproduce. On the other hand, producing a good head, which is somewhat rounded, with a strong jaw (no under or overbite), and a
small,
correctly placed,
rounded tipped ear set, can be
more difficult (e. g., some breeders prefer a triangular "look" of the head, but if you examine pictures of the ALC you will notice that there is, in general, a degree of roundness in its structure). In the present time, breeding for beautiful natural coloring, clearly defined or differentiated markings (such as rosettes), and no bars, have been the "flavors of the day," and continue to be so. However, now,
the emphasis is on producing,
as best as possible,
a good head,
with small,
correctly set,
non-pointy ears (a challenging endeavor, to be sure). It is interesting to note, that the benefits of the DBC and FG hybrids are important, at least according to some feline experts, who consider them to be the
healthiest and most intelligent of cats. Therefore, their contribution to the "gene pool"
may have significant influence or hold the "key" to the overall
future health of all domestic cats? This, of course, remains to be seen, but it will be interesting to follow future events.
( The picture, above-right, is taken from an issue of the 1995, The Bengal Bulletin, and suggests how ALC and FG cats appear when viewed from the front; the ears, however, are somewhat large in the "f" generation cats depicted. Notice the angular type/placement of the ears or "ear set," the eyes, the degree of roundness and angular structure of the head. The whisker pads are prominent in both the ALC and the domestic Bengal).
TO TOP PAGE
(TEMPERAMENT and BEHAVIOR)
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The temperament of
FG Bengals can be erratic or even wild. Likewise, they are often shy, making their demeanor hard to predict or measure. From a strict behavioral standpoint, their emotional response to stimulus is determined or influenced, not only by parental heredity (e. g., behavior based on genetic background or history), but just as importantly, by (1)
individual disposition, by (2) the
relationship between environment and their adaptability, and by (3)
how they are raised and handled. These influences, of course, also apply to
the later generation domestic Bengal, although they are more important to
captive ALC and to
F1-F4 hybrids (i. e., in early generation breeding programs). Temperament, of course, can be complex because of the
human component and
environmental factors that can severely
impact, and thus,
shape overall behavior. Therefore, early
socialization is especially important and should never be underestimated. So, if you are going to be a responsible breeder, you have to
socialize the kittens (around three weeks is a good time to start).
--
Because of the aforementioned observations, but especially for those who are considering an
FG cat as a pet for the home, special care and handling are needed. Here, you have to structure or create, as best as you can, an environment that suits the cat's overall nature. In other words, make his new home a comfortable, safe, and
quiet place. If you have, as an example, a noisy household with small children running around, it's probably not a good idea to have an FG cat. On the other hand, an FG kitten that is
lovingly hand-raised, may, in some environments, adapt easily, exhibiting a calm and affectionate disposition as they mature (however, you can never be absolutely certain). Nonetheless, because of their
wild tendencies, we strongly feel
FG cats are
not suitable for the majority of households. So, if you are looking for a Bengal as a companion or pet for the home, what you should be considering are
SBT cats (later generation, beyond F4). At these genetic levels, they have, for the most part, reached
domesticity, are easily cared for, and have a loving and care-free nature. They are also the most commonly available to the
trade, since most Bengal catteries breed only later generation cats (
Champion Flare and
Imaginique's Trinity , shown below, are examples of
SBT Bengal cats).
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(THE BENGAL COAT)
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Although the domesticated Bengal Cat has physical traits
resembling those of the forest-dwelling ALC, it is their beautiful coats that make them so appealing. Specifically, cross-breeding these cats has produced
markings,
pelting,
glitter, and for the most part, deeply pigmented
color variations that are
unique among domestic cats. We will briefly cover these attributes, saving the characteristics of
pelting and
glitter for the last of our discussion.
COLORS , whether on the
background or the
foreground markings of the coat, can be in single or multiple/mixed schemes (e. g., the marbled cat has a multiple colored coat, see picture, left). As one would expect, colors can be light or dark, with various shades or hues between (deeply or lightly
pigmented are commonly used to define the saturation of color in the coat). Several colors are recognized by TICA , including mink, sepia, brown, seal lynx point, silver, among others.
There are, of course, many color variations that can appear depending on genetic heritage, but for the most part, the many shades and hues of light brown and lightly tanned
rufous colors (i. e., shades of "red"), and mixtures of these, are quite common; occassionally, solid colors such as black, and blue-type coats apppear. As one would expect,
serious and
conscientious breeders are continually striving to maintain some of the "LOOK" of the ALC, while at same time, establish a gene pool that consistently expresses background colors that
contrast and highlight the foreground markings (such as, clearly differentiated rosettes or solid spots). To be avoided are bloodlines that
express markings and colors that are "washed out," are too darkly saturated, or that significally
fade with maturity. This process or task can be difficult to do, and takes many years of specific breeding and experimenting. In this regard, one needs to understand which bloodlines
PRODUCE , not only the best color, markings, temperament, and anatomical structure, but more importantly,
consistency and
uniformity in the offspring.
The foreground
MARKINGS that appear on the background color of the coat, such as spots, bars or stripes, and arrangements or mixtures of these, are to an extent, unique to this beautiful cat; markings can appear on the coat in an infinite number of ways, this is called a pattern or
patterning. The
primary markings are
spots and a swirling type colored coat called
marbled. The
spotted markings are the most prevalent, consisting of solid and rosetted types. Bars and stripes are considered to be
secondary markings, since serious breeders want to
increase the number and intensity of spots in their "bloodlines," and
reduce, as much as possible, the occurrence of the other. Concerning the common
spotted varieties, whether they be solid or rosetted, or a combination of the two, should visually
standout, with the background color
clearly highlighting these markings. There should also be spacing, called
acreage, between spots, so that they are easily visualized (but
never equally spaced, especially in a vertical plane). Such markings, should appear in the middle-body, extending towards the back and front, with stripes and bars (if they appear), confined to the rear and front of the chest (sometimes, along the shoulder, hip, and leg). Vertical bars on the main body are to be avoided, but appear, from time to time, in most "bloodlines" (vertical bars in the middle of the body are a major fault).
Rosetted markings, which are
highly desirable, are a lightly colored irregular shaped spot surrounded by a darker outline; these markings sometimes fad as the cat matures. Different sizes and shapes of rosettes, such as arrowhead, cat's paw, and more rounded-shaped types, occur frequently. As you would expect, solid spots, rosettes, and other markings will
vary in number, in pattern, in size, in shape, in color, and in type. Likewise, no two cats will have exactly the same markings and patterns. Such variability in
attributes are due, exclusively, to the dominant and recesssive nature of genes in the "bloodlines," which, in turn, express the various traits and characteristics observed in the cat (
SBT Champion Flare, pictured above-right, is a good example of a rosetted domestic Bengal Cat; note the color of the coat and markings, and the acreage between rosettes).
As previously discussed, all cats have a coat of some description, with certain
colors and
patterned markings. However, there is something special about the texture, and overall appearance or "look" of the Bengal coat. Here, two primary features or properties are clearly observed:
(1) The overall coat tends to be highly
PELTED ( i. e.,
it is short, compacted, and smooth, with a velvety texture, or a silk-like feel to the touch ). This trait is
easily introduced into the gene pool, and although it is observed in other breeds of cats, it is more pronounced in the Bengal. However, the degree of pelting and overall smoothness is variable. Such features are determined by the length and structure of the hairs, and how they are placed on the overall body. In the Bengal, as compared to other cats, the coat is always shorter, more compact, and therefore, the degree of pelting is more evident (a common occurrence, related to pelting, is that the coat of the
marbled cat, as an example, is
generally, smoother and more tightly compact then that of the spotted Bengal).
(2) When
light of
sufficient intensity is directed onto the cat, the coat will appear to
shine or glow . This phenomena, or more correctly, "effect," is called
GLITTER (a "glittered coat"). It is
unique to the Bengal Cat, and its characteristics are easily passed from one generation to another, but in
varying degrees of intensity. It is produced because the individual
hair tips 
have a hollow-air-space-type structure that easily
refracts light, and when superimposed on a smooth, short, and deeply pigmented background or surface, glows when illuminated. Not all hair tips are glittered in the same way, and there can be a lot of variability (e. g., some hairs have only "gold glitter" on their tips, which is different from the standard hollow hair-tip structure). Also, various degrees of
coat textures often affect the refractive properties, and therefore, the intensity of the glitter. For the most part, Bengals that have more glitter usually have
shorter,
velvet-napped coats (e. g., occasionally, "non-glittered" or "ticked" coats appear, and have a "washed-out" look. Here, the individual hair tips are
light-gray or
off-white, and do not have a clear hollow-type structure, and therefore, minimal refractive properties). Jean Mill was one of the first to introduce the refractive characteristics of glitter into the "gene pool" (in the early 1980's). As previously mentioned, she used a domestic shorthair "streetcat" from Delhi, India, that was highly glittered and rufoused, with deep brown rosettes. Interestingly,
the Bengal is the only breed of cat noted for its glitter. But, it is not part of the "
standard for the breed," and although a desirable trait, is not a necessary component or criteria for exhibiting at cat shows. Nonetheless, it sure makes an impression on the judges and the general public. However, simply not having
a highly glittered coat, does not mean the cat, in question, is of poor quality; there are structural or physical attributes that are more important. One of our queens,
Trinity , above-left, is an example of a glittered and marbled SBT Bengal (pictured at 10 months of age).
TO TOP PAGE
(CHOOSING YOUR CAT)
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In choosing a Bengal Cat for your home, take your time in selecting the right one.
(1) Don't be afraid to ask questions no matter how insignificant they may be. Conscientious Bengal breeders will be more than happy to spend the time to address all of your questions .
(2) Aways look for a friendly, out-going kitten. Bear in mind, these are kittens we are talking about. Often they will not want to sit calmly but will be constantly moving around.
Be patient and watch how they move and interact with you, the breeders and the other kittens.
(3) Ask to see the parents if that's possible. If you are selecting a cat via the internet or by telephone, you'll have to rely on the
honesty and integrity of the breeder, and on other means of communication (such as the world-wide-web, and pictures or "jpegs"). Just remember, that pictures
do not always reflect the nature and true beauty of the cat you may be considering.
(4) Concerning cost, there are major differences or degrees of quality, such as pet quality, breeder quality, and show quality. As an example, a top-of-the line breeder/show quality cat can be as high as $3500.00. A good pet quality kitten can usually be purchased from between $900.00 - $1000.00, to as high as $1500.00 (depending on quality). However, don't expect the serious and conscientious breeder to apologize for the cost. After all, they have spent years and thousands of dollars investing, to produce these beautiful animals (developing their special "bloodlines"). Remember, you do get what you pay for. Just be aware that there are many backyard breeders out there, selling cats on "the cheap" (If the price sounds to good to be true, it probably is). So, be careful. If you have questions or concerns, pickup the telephone. If you feel that your questions are not being answered or that you are getting the "run-around," politely hang up the phone and call someone else. You'll be able to tell, soon enough, who is an honest and a loving breeder of these cats.
(5) Always ask the breeder about the cat's overall physical condition, making sure to ask for a
health certificate and a health warranty, in writing. If they do not have this, you should find a cattery that does.
In closing, remember that reputable and honest breeders will answer your questions objectively and truthfully, and will always supply, in written form, a "statement" of health in their
purchase agreements or
contracts. So, enjoy your little friend, for he will grow quickly, but will give you a
life time of love and companionship. (Reference
statement for information in this article is listed below) .
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REFERENCE STATEMENT and DISCLAIMER
The context of this article, including page layout, was designed and written by IMAGINIQUE BENGAL CATS, Inc.- Its content is
copyrighted, and use of the material, in any way,
is strictly prohibited (
unless permission is granted from the author).
- Some of the information in this article was obtained from cat journals, a few "online" sources, and the
"The Bengal Bulletin," (March 1995). The majority of information is based on our own knowledge and from discussions with other experienced breeders over the years. However, if you wish to use any of our "text" in an article, or, on your own web site, you are granted permission to do so,
but only if you give credit and "list" us as a reference in your writings.
COPYRIGHT © JANUARY 2001, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
To obtain specific information regarding
permission to use or quote sections of this article, call (1-813-949-5590) or E-MAIL Imaginique Bengals.
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