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What is a Bengal Cat? The Bengal is a relatively new breed of domestic cat which was originally created by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat (ALC) with a domestic cat.  The name Bengal came from the Asian leopard's scientific name, Felis Bengalensis.
(Asian Leopard Cat)	The first three generations of these hybrid offspring are properly referred to as the "filial" generations.  Filial cats (F1-F3) are also termed 'foundation cats' F1's are the first generation from the Asian Leopard Cat (one parent was domestic and the other was an ALC). F2's are the second generation from the Asian Leopard Cat, (one grandparent was domestic and the other was an ALC). F3's are the third generation from the Asian Leopard Cat, (one great grandparent was an Asian Leopard Cat and the other was domestic). F4 and later generations are considered domestic Bengal cats and correctly designated as Stud Book Tradition (SBT) Bengals.
Sometimes there is a misconception that the lower ‘F’ generation cats are more striking or beautiful than the SBT Bengal.  The Bengal has progressed so much in recent years that this is not always the case. SBT Bengals are the only Bengals that are eligible for showing, they also have a very dependable and domestic temperament.  All Guyus Bengals are SBT Bengals and therefore at least 4 generations removed from the ALC ancestry.

What does a Bengal Cat look like? A Bengal cat is an athletic animal with strength, agility, balance and grace.
Its wide nose with prominent whisker pads and large oval, almost round eyes in a slightly small head enhance the wild appearance and expressive nocturnal look. It’s very slight, to nearly straight, concave profile and relatively short ears with wide base and rounded tips add to the Bengal’s distinctive and unique appearance.  A thick, low-set, medium-length tail adds balance to the cat. The wild appearance is enhanced by its distinctive spotted or marbled coat on a background colour of brown, silver or white.  The short, dense coat (pelt) has a uniquely rich smooth feel of satin or silk.
The coat may be glittered. There is no other breed of cat which displays the gold or pearl dusting effect of the Bengal.  Glitter looks as though the Bengal was dipped in gold or crystal dust.

What about the Bengal temperament? "Warning!" - Bengals are addictive.  Bengals really are people cats and they bond strongly to their human companions.  Some say their behaviour is more like a dog than a cat.  Bengal cats are a lot of fun, they first attract people with their exotic looks but then they captivate them with their personalities. A Bengal cat is very intelligent and playful and likes to be involved in all activities.  We have a Bengal queen who likes nothing better than to play fetch and has even carried the mail from the front door into the house.  Bengals are not afraid of water, most like to play in it.

How big is a Bengal Cat? Adult male Bengals are often large, and can easily weigh 15 pounds.  The females are usually smaller and lighter, weighing about 8 to 10 pounds.  Either way they are just a nice size to curl up on your lap.

Male or Female?
	Both male and female are affectionate and it’s really down to personal preference.  Either sex is extremely affectionate, interactive and adjusts well to home situations.  It has been said that there are three sexes – male, female and neuter.  Both male and female Bengals become even better pets once neutered.

What are the Fuzzies? Most Bengal kittens go through a stage called the "Fuzzies".  Like many baby wild animals, all Bengals go through the "Fuzzies", where they lose the clarity of their markings before later regaining them with their adult coat.