First, who wouldn't want a friendly, little leopard as a companion! The most obvious appeal is their striking appearance. They are bred to mimic the look of wild cats, like Leopards and Clouded Leopards. Then, it is their engaging and playful, distinctive personalities that catch you. They love to be "part of the family" and are very interactive. So, read on... the more you know about them will make it clear as to why they are one of the most popular Domestic Pets. We're sure that you will want one to join your family!

Historically, cats have been a part of human cultures throughout recorded history. Click HERE to find out more about how they began their relationship with humans.

The Bengal Cat is a Domestic Cat breed that was a hybrid created by Jean Mill originally in 1963 to 1965. Jean started new bloodlines in the early 1980's and we all have Millwood Bengals (Cattery), and all of Jean's hard work, to thank for such a wonderful breed of Domestic Cat. Bengals really do "have it all" - the exotic looks of a Wild Cat and the temperament of a Domestic Cat. Santa Fe Bengal Cattery has Championship blood lines from Millwood and other Catteries.

Bengals are originally a cross between the WILD "Asian Leopard Cat", Prionailurus Bengalensis (sub species, Bengalensis, from Bengal, India), commonly referred to as the "ALC," and most often with the Egyptian Mau, Felis Catus.  The Bengal breed received it's name from having the heritage of the Asian Leopard Cat first found in Bengal, India.  Note the sub species "Bengalensis" that is listed in the ALC's scientific identification.

When a Wild ALC is crossed with a Domestic Cat Breed, the progeny is designated by "Felis", rather than "Prionailurius".  Felis means Domestic and all Domestic Cat breeds start with this designation.  Both SBT and Early Generation Bengals are designated by Felis, which means "Domesticated House Cat".  SBT Bengals have a very small percentage (1/12th or less) of the Wild genetics and Foundation Early Generation Bengals (F1,F2, F3) have higher percentages of the Wild genetics.  We strongly feel that F1 Foundation Bengals (the first crossing of Wild and Domestic) are best for experienced Breeders only, however, the next crossings (F2 and F3) can be wonderful pets as they have mostly Domestic genetics.

There are two pattern types of Bengal coats, also called pelts, in reference to their heritage to the sleek, shiny wild ALC “pelt.” Spotted/Rosetted or Marbled are the two Bengal coat patterns; both looking very much like a wild cat. The TICA accepted colors are Brown/Black, Snow, and Silver.

Click HERE to find out about the TICA Breed Standard.

Bengals are BIG on personality. They are outgoing, curious, playful, and affectionate. These cats are not timid or reclusive and enjoy being a part of the family. Reputed to being the most intelligent of all domestic cats, they will greet you at the door, play fetch, and walk on a leash – they adapt well to being "taught”. Despite their (desirable) differences from most Domestic Cats, SBT Bengals don't require special feeding or care. But just like any creature - cat, dog, human... when given high quality food and lodgings, the result will be better health and appearance.  View photos of our beautiful Bengal Cats and Kittens on our Photo Gallery SBT Cats 1 and Photo gallery SBT Cats 2 pages.

Check out our Foundation Cats page for more information about Early Generation Bengal Cats. 

Click HERE to find out more about "How Bengals are different from other Domestic Cats."

Click HERE to watch a short video of "How Bengals love to play fetch!"

Click HERE to review "How to Introduce your New Kitten to Other Pets in your Household."

Click HERE to find out more about TICA  (The International Cat Association).

Click HERE to find out more about TIBCS (The International Bengal Cat Society) and the Bengal Breed.