Bengal
To most cat lovers, spots spell “wild” and spotted cats command attention. The Bengal is a medium to large cat with a sleek, muscular build.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Weight | 8–12 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 12–16+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair [2] |
| Look | The Bengal is a medium to large cat with a sleek, muscular build. [2] |
| Personality | To most cat lovers, spots spell “wild” and spotted cats command attention. [2] |
| Recognized by | CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
To most cat lovers, spots spell “wild” and spotted cats command attention. While there are other spotted breeds, only the Bengal takes spots one step further, sporting dramatic rosettes with dark outlines for a look like no other breed. [2]
Grooming
The coat texture of a Bengal has to be experienced to be believed. It is incredibly soft and silky, unlikely to mat, and does not shed heavily, especially in comparison to other shorthair breeds. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Lymphoma, Gastrointestinal Conditions, Patellar Luxation, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD). [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [5] |
| Cat heart disease treatment (owner bills) | $525–$1,250 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- To most cat lovers, spots spell “wild” and spotted cats command attention. [2]
- Two unrelated goals gave birth to the Bengal breed. [2]
- Confident, curious, and athletic, Bengals are extremely intelligent and maintain a kitten-like energy and attitude well into their senior years. [2]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Bengal cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 12–16 years.
How big does a Bengal get?
PetMD lists a weight of 8–12 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources (6) — tap to show
- PetMD – Bengal cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Bengal breed profile
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Heart Disease Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)