Wild ancestors – the origin of the Bengal cat
The Bengal breed descends from the Asian leopard cat (Felis bengalensis), which was crossed with domestic cats to create a unique hybrid that carries the exotic look of the wildcat, but is also friendly and gentle for home life. Thanks to decades of responsible breeding, the Bengal is now a true family favorite, preserving the beauty and uniqueness of its wild ancestor, but with a temperament perfectly suited to modern homes.
Sometimes the wild ancestors' traits appear: higher activity, love of water, distinctive vocalizations, or curiosity – all make this breed unique and lovable.
What does the F and G generation mean?
Bengals originally came from a cross between a wildcat and a domestic cat, so it's important to track generations. The first four generations are marked with F (filial): F1 (wildcat × domestic cat), F2, F3, F4, then G (generation) is used (G5, G6, etc.), at which point the cat is fully domesticated. In our country, only G5 or later generation Bengals can be rehomed, and we only have these.
What does the SBT code mean?
SBT (Stud Book Traditional) is the FiFe pedigree code, guaranteeing that the cat comes from pure Bengal lines for at least four generations, with no wildcat outcross. This is the guarantee of a true Bengal: beautiful, balanced, healthy and friendly.
The Bengal Breed History
From 1963 to today – the story of a wildcat turned family companion
The First Cross
Jean Mill (Sudgen) crosses an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat, creating the first F1 hybrid. This was the birth moment of the Bengal breed.
Breeding Program Begins
Dr. Willard Centerwall continues crossbreeding at the University of California. The research originally aimed to study cats' immunity to FeLV.
Official Recognition
The International Cat Association (TICA) officially recognizes the Bengal breed. This was the first major step toward international acceptance.
Championship Status
TICA grants Championship status to Bengals. The breed can now compete in all major categories and receives full recognition.
Modern Bengal
Today the Bengal is one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide. Fully domesticated, healthy, beautiful family companions with wild appearance and gentle nature.
Genetics & Generations
How wild ancestor traits are inherited and what F and G generations mean
Generation Structure
First generation hybrid: 50% Asian leopard cat, 50% domestic cat. Usually wilder nature, not legal to keep as pets in all countries.
Second generation: 25% ALC. Still strong wild characteristics, special permits required in many countries.
Third generation: 12.5% ALC. Gradually more domestic nature, but still active and energetic.
Stud Book Traditional: ≤6.25% ALC blood. Fully domesticated, ideal family companion. We only breed SBT Bengals.
Inherited Traits
From Asian Leopard Cat
- •Exotic spotted pattern (rosettes, marbled)
- •Athletic build and movement
- •Love of water and swimming
- •High intelligence and curiosity
From Domestic Cat
- •Gentle, friendly nature
- •Social behavior with humans
- •Adaptability to home environment
- •Loving and loyal nature
What is the Bengal's personality like?
Active and curious: family-oriented, loves to participate in everything, not afraid to explore every corner.
Loves water: many enjoy playing with water, splashing in bowls or even in the shower.
Intelligent, trainable: easily learns tricks, fetch, even walking on a leash.
Vocal, social: uses a variety of sounds, communicates with the owner.
Child- and dog-friendly: gets along well with other pets, but can sometimes be dominant.
Not a couch potato: prefers movement and play – you'll never be bored with one!
Who is it for, who not?
The Bengal cat can be a fantastic companion for those who are active, love to play, and accept that this cat needs attention. If you want a quiet, decorative cat that keeps to itself, the Bengal may not be ideal. But if you love play, fun, and creative, sometimes mischievous company, you'll adore it!
What to expect as an owner?
A Bengal will be a true family member: follows you around the home, helps with chores, joins in daily life, and brings endless joy. Sometimes it "disrupts" your routine, but every mischief is balanced by its love, intelligence and playfulness.