The Asian Leopard Cat
The registered domestic Bengal cat is descended from the Asian Leopard Cat.The Asian Leopard Cat (Felis Bengalensis) is similar in size to a domestic cat. It has a moderately small head with a short narrow muzzle and, large eyes (due to nocturnal habits). At maturity, the length of the body may vary from approximately 25 to 32 inches and, the ALC will weigh between 7 to 15 pounds. It has a wonderfully thick tail. Size and weight will vary amongst the subspecies of the Asian Leopard Cat from different geographical regions. In general, females are smaller than males.
The Asian Leopard Cat’s markings are very beautiful and show considerable variation between individual animals. All of the subspecies have four black bands which run from the forehead to the back of the neck area, where they break up into elongated spots which continue to go down the neck onto the shoulders. These spots often form a “broken necklace”. The tail is either spotted or ringed and has a black tip. The ears are black and rounded, with a white spot on the back. Asian Leopard Cats have a white throat, cheek flashes and a white tummy with dark spots. The beautiful pelt has a light ground color which may be marked in solid spots or rosettes (light spots with a dark surround). Occasionally, the pelt is a marbled color.
Distinct variations in body color can be found in the ten subspecies of the Asian Leopard Cat. In the Northern regions, the Asian Leopard Cat tends to have reddish brown spotting on a yellowish-grey background and in more humid regions it is generally more ochre-yellow to brownish.
The Asian Leopard Cat population is distributed not only throughout Southern Asia but can also be found in Soviet Far East, Korea, China and as far west as India. Populations of the animals can also be found in the islands of Sumatra, Taiwan, Borneo, Bali, Java and throughout the Philippine archipelago. This wide distribution has led the Asian Leopard cat to be called by many different names which include the 'Wagati' cat, 'Javan' cat and 'Chinese Cat'. It has been also called the 'Money' cat because its rosettes are similar in shape to Chinese coins.
Of all the subspecies, the most common is likely the Felis bengalensis, and wildlife experts do not believe it to be in any danger of extinction. However, the wild population is under pressure from rapidly expanding human growth which has led to destruction of its natural habitats. The import and export of Asian Leopard Cats and their offspring are regulated by an international treaty called CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).
In the wild, Asian Leopard cats are usually spend their time alone and are most active at night. They prefer to live in areas which are mostly brush or forest. They like to make their dens in tree hollows, small caves or under large roots or fallen logs. Given the Asian Leopard Cats live in such a wide variety of landscapes, they tend to have many different skills. Living near water, they are good swimmers and do fish. Of course, they are excellent climbers.
From
Asian Leopard Cat to Bengal
The Bengal cat was originally developed from crossing the Asian Leopard Cats and the domestic cat. You may find the Egyptian Mau or Abyssians and other selected domestic cats in the early generations. A first generation cross between an Asian Leopard cat and a domestic cat is a hybrid F1. When that hybrid is then bred with another domestic cat (usually a Bengal now) their offspring are called F2. The kittens of an F2 are called an F3. The females are fertile, however, nearly all males, F1 through F3 are sterile and cannot produce offspring. This means that in the early stages of a Bengal breeding programs, you will usually find only female bengals bred with SBT males. SBT (Stud Book Tradition) Bengals are those who are F4s and beyond.
The International Cat Association recognizes the F4 generation as the domestic Bengal cat and it is eligible for show and gaining championship class points. The American Cat Fanciers Association recognizes the F5 as the domestic Bengal. Bengals are popular in ICAT competitions.
The goal of a Bengal breeder is to produce a wonderful, interactive domestic pet with the beautiful physical characteristics of the Asian Leopard Cat.
Early Generation Bengals can make the most wonderful pets and companions. Females are generally important for a breeding program while the males are generally placed in loving, forever pet homes and are required to be neutered. It is important for all kittens to be lovingly socialized as young babies and, especially so for the early generation kittens. Our babies live in our home and we handle them every day. These highly intelligent cats form strong bonds and make a desirable household pet and companion.
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