The basic aim of the Bengal cat is to mimic the appearance of the Asian Leopard Cat.(ALC) In the USA the first intentional and controlled hybridization of the ALC (Asian Leopard Cat) and a Domestic feline cat was by 'Jean Mills' and was recorded in 1965 in Arizona. By the 1980's Jean Mills began two different bloodlines and other enthusiasts joined forces and by the 1990's Bengals were accepted for champion competitions and shows.
Bengals come in a variety of colours and patterns. The two patterns are Spotted and Marbled. Colours are Brown, Silver, the Snow series, and now blue.
Spotted Bengals are more common than marbled ones, and brown Bengals are more common than snows. Blue Bengals are quite rare and are in the process of being accepted world wide. Australian National Cats Inc. has recently accepted the Blue Bengal for championship status.
Bengal spots come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some have many small spots, whilst others have fewer large spots or rosettes which are two toned spots, which is considered quite desirable, though there is nothing wrong with a Bengal with lots of spots. The Bengal is a large, sleek and very muscular cat with its hind-quarters slightly higher than its shoulders with a thick tail, the Bengal is self-assured, affectionate and playful, with the stunning looks of its wild ancestor.
