The Bengal cat breed is originally the result of the cross between an Asian Leopard Cat (Felis Bengalensis) and a domestic cat. We have Jean Mill of Millwood Bengals to thank for such a wonderful breed. The Asian Leopard (ALC) is a wild feline that roams the world from China, to India, to many small islands such as Borneo, and the Philippines. It is a very small (6-12 lbs.) wild cat that is generally not aggressive. It feeds on rodents, insects, fish, and birds, etc and lives in forested areas and near water sources.

The first three generations of the domestic Bengal x Leopard Cat crosses and called Foundation Bengals, or F1, F2, and F3 hybrids of Filial Generations The fourth generation and following Bengal generations are called SBT Bengals.

The Bengal is a medium sized (8-16 lbs.), sleek, and very muscular cat with a wild appearance. A distinctive spotted, or marbled coat enhances this, which should be thick and luxurious. Its tummy is spotted. It is very beautiful.

Bengal cats are inquisitive, not easily intimidated and are highly intelligent. They are very active and playful. They are talkative, and sassy. Many have to have " the last word!" They will talk, to hear themselves talk. When they want something, they expect you to understand exactly WHAT they want-from food and water, to a quick cuddle. They love to climb, jump, and race through the house, then back again. All for no good reason that you can see. They love high places,--leaving you to wonder how on earth they got up there. A nine-foot high ledge is no problem. They walk with a wild type, very self-assured swagger. Bengals easily learn their name and will come when you call. Our queen, Toshani, picked her own name by coming to that name only, as I was trying out several others. Some Bengals fetch, and have a natural attraction to water, especially running water.

Bengals are the most entertaining cat companion that you can have. I think that they clown around just to see you respond. They follow you from room to room and always have to have their nose in whatever you are doing. Sometimes they only oversee your work to make sure that you are doing it right, but most times, they want in it, or on it. They can be very determined. They will follow you around from room to room, and protest loudly if shut out. There is no such thing as a shut bathroom door. Making a bed will take you twice as long with a Bengal in the room. Computer screens are made to lie on top of. Lap top keys are made to be stepped on.

Bengals are not always lap cats. Sometimes, they just want to be near, but not petted or held. They definitely have minds of their own. Bengals usually decide when they want to be held. They are not mean by nature, and are very gentle. They love the companionship of other animals. They are wonderful. They are for people that want a lively, beautiful, loving, funny friend for life.