Kittunkatz Bengals Breeding Center

Why are Bengal Cats So Expensive?

The main reason Bengals are so expensive is that they are a relatively new breed, and creating a Bengal cat is not an easy task. Breeders often do not make a significant profit from their catteries; instead, the business of Bengals is mostly driven by a love for the breed.

What Makes Bengal Cats Special?

1. Unique Ancestry: Bengal cats are derived from a cross between the Asian Leopard Cat and domestic cats. This unique lineage gives them their striking appearance and wild, exotic look.
2. Exquisite Appearance: Bengals have a distinctive coat with rosettes, spots, and marbling that resemble a leopard's or jaguar's coat. Their coats can also have a glittery effect, making them look even more stunning.
3. Energetic and Playful: Bengals are known for their high energy levels and playful nature. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise, making them more like having a puppy than a typical cat.
4. Intelligence: Bengals are highly intelligent and curious. They enjoy interactive play and can even be trained to perform tricks or walk on a leash.
5. Healthy and Strong: Because of their wild ancestry, Bengals tend to be healthier and stronger than many other domestic cat breeds.

Cost Factors in Breeding Bengal Cats

1. High Breeding Costs: Breeding Bengals requires significant investment in terms of time, money, and effort. This includes the cost of maintaining breeding cats, veterinary care, high-quality food, and proper housing.
2. Health Testing: Reputable breeders perform extensive health testing to ensure their cats are free from genetic diseases. This ensures the kittens are healthy but also adds to the breeding costs.
3. Selective Breeding: Producing Bengals with the desired traits, such as the right coat pattern and temperament, requires careful and selective breeding over multiple generations.
4. Care for Kittens: Bengal kittens need proper socialization and care from birth. They are often raised in-home environments to ensure they are well-adjusted and healthy when they go to their new homes.

Alternatives for Potential Bengal Owners

If you're looking for a Bengal but cannot afford the price, consider the following options:

1. Bengal Cat Rescue Network: This network helps rehome Bengals in need of a new home.
2. SPCA Malaysia (www.spca.org.my): Check local SPCA listings for Bengal cats available for adoption.
3. Petfinder (www.petfinder.com): A platform where you might find Bengals or Bengal mixes looking for homes.
4. Retired Breeders: Contact your nearest Bengal breeder and ask if they have any retired breeders available for adoption at a lower cost.

Important Considerations

Bengal cats are not for everyone. They are extremely energetic, demand a lot of attention, and can become destructive if they are bored or feel neglected. They require a high-protein diet and plenty of opportunities to explore, run, and jump. This breed will not be content just lying around the house all day; they need active engagement and mental stimulation.