24.06.2022

A Bengal cat stud—everything you should know

Regardless of gender, Bengal cats are friendly, intelligent, and highly energetic. Their athleticism and constant need to be active are the primary aspects to consider before deciding whether this breed is the right fit for you. If you want to get a male mini leopard, you should pay attention to a few more points.

In this article, Untamed goes a little deeper into the personality traits and needs of a Bengal cat stud. Learn everything about their appearance and personality, common health issues, behaviour problems, and other crucial facts about these felines. 

Bengal cat stud appearance

You’re bragging about my handsomeness and awesomeness again, aren’t you?

Source: lshman000

Male Bengals are heavier and larger than females. Their necks are typically less defined and their bodies more muscular. Besides their gorgeous coat colours and markings, these felines have no exaggerated characteristics that distinguish them from other breeds.

For more details about a male Bengal cat’s physical appearance, check the table below:

Bengal cat stud personality

The temperament of a male Bengal cat depends on their family, environment, and upbringing, so every stud has a unique personality. Compared to females, Bengal males are usually more:

1. Active
2. Aggressive
3. Affectionate

Are Bengal cat studs more active?

Bengal cats are generally an active breed, and males seem to be more energetic. They even tend to resort to destructive behaviours if not given enough cognitive stimulation. Besides your attention and time dedicated to playing and training, these felines require a home that can cater to their exuberant energy. Your furry companion will need entertainment even when you are not around, so you should provide:

• Enough space for your Bengal to run around and jump
• A cat tree and perches for climbing
• Scratching posts
• Food puzzles
• Interactive toys

Are Bengal males more aggressive?

Come closer at your own risk!

Source: currifex

Compared to females, Bengal cat studs seem to be friendlier with other felines. They also get on well with well-behaved dogs and kids, which makes them fantastic companions for families.

Despite their amicable nature, these felines are among the most territorial cat breeds—perhaps because of their wild ancestry. It may be challenging to introduce a new cat to your household, but you should have no significant problems if you properly socialise your Bengal while they’re growing up.

One way to ensure your Bengal learns how to play nice is not to separate them from their mother for at least eight weeks. After that, you should introduce them to other cats and pets and let them meet as many people as possible.

Are Bengal studs more affectionate?

Some cat parents say that Bengal males show more affection than females. They are also believed to be more accepting of various people, whereas females tend to pick a favourite. This might be true, but no generalisations should be made since each cat has a unique personality.

To neuter, or not to neuter—that is the question

I know what you’re planning! I’m never getting out of this bag!

Source: Irina_kukuts

If you want to welcome a Bengal cat stud to your family, you should be aware that intact males tend to show specific negative behavioural traits more often, including:

• Roaming—Unneutered males tend to stray more, searching for females in heat. This can put them at all sorts of risks—from traffic accidents, infectious diseases, and injuries to getting lost or stolen
• Spraying—They tend to urinate on items around your home to mark their territory
• Aggressive outbursts—High testosterone levels can cause an intact Bengal to fight with other tomcats, especially if there is a female in heat nearby

Along with positive changes in their behaviour, neutering your feline companion brings significant health benefits. The chances of testicular cancer are eliminated, while the likelihood of prostate problems developing is massively reduced.

Bengal cat stud health issues

Besides testicular and prostate cancer, Bengal cats are prone to a few more health issues. The most common health problems in this breed include:

1. Progressive retinal atrophy
2. Flat-chested kitten syndrome
3. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
4. Patellar luxation
5. Erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency
6. Chronic kidney disease

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a disease that causes degeneration of the retina and ultimately leads to complete blindness. There is no cure nor a way to slow the progression of the disease, but the cat can lead a normal life if they know their surroundings and you don't make drastic changes to their environment.

There are two main variants of PRA in cats:

1. Early-onset is characterised by the abnormal development of photoreceptor cells. It is usually diagnosed when the cat is two or three months old
2. Late-onset usually occurs between two and five years of age. The photoreceptor cells deteriorate slowly, causing night blindness. The cat usually loses their vision completely within two to four years

Usual symptoms of PRAare:

• Bumping into objects
• Excessive vocalisation
• Increased nervousness
• Dilated pupils

Note that felines can also lose vision due to:

• Cataracts
• Detached retina
• Lack of taurine in the diet

Flat-chested kitten syndrome (FCKS)

Bengal cats often suffer from flat-chested kitten syndrome.

Source: lshman000

FCKS is a genetic condition that affects Bengals more frequently than other breeds. It is characterised by a flattened rib cage and spine deviation. Many kittens born with this thoracic deformation also have a swimmer syndrome indicated by splayed legs.

This disease can cause many health issues, including:

• Coughing and difficulty breathing
• Lethargy
• Vomiting and dry heaving
• Weight loss
• Chest infections
• Cyanosis
• Heart murmurs

Some kittens recover from FCKS after a few days with no consequences, but if they develop spinal deviation, it will remain forever. In severe cases, the prognosis is not positive because surgeries are rarely possible.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM is a heart disease that primarily affects older felines and cats struggling with extra weight. It is characterised by the thickening of the left ventricle, which reduces the heart's efficiency. 

In less severe cases, cats don't develop any symptoms. If it’s severe, HCM leads to:

• Increased intracardiac pressure
• Oxygen starvation
• Backup of blood to the rest of the heart and lungs
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Blood clot formation
• Congestive heart failure

Common symptoms of this disease include:

• Panting
• Lethargy
• Acute pain in hind limbs
• Paralysis of hind limbs

There is no cure for HCM, but the disease can be managed with proper diet and medication.

Patellar luxation

If your Bengal cat stud starts limping or has difficulty jumping, they may suffer from patellar luxation.

Source: Amandad

Patellar luxation is a dislocation of the kneecap and can be caused by an injury or a congenital malformation. It is usually bilateral, which means it affects both hind legs.

The condition comes in four grades:

Erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency

Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD) reduces the lifespan of the cat’s red blood cells, resulting in anaemia and other blood problems. In most cases, anaemia is mild, and the cat can adapt to this condition and lead a normal life. They may develop some symptoms, such as:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness
• Weakness

If anaemia develops quickly, it can be life-threatening, and the symptoms usually include:

• Elevated heart rate
• Muscle atrophy
• Jaundice

The only cure for PKD is bone marrow transplantation, which is a dangerous and costly procedure.

Chronic kidney disease

Chronic renal failure is a common health issue in older cats and is often the result of other underlying health problems, such as:

• Tumours
• Infections
• Dental disease
• Thyroid problems
• Kidney stones
• High blood pressure

Many symptoms may indicate your Bengal suffers from chronic kidney disease, including:

• Weight loss
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Lack of appetite
• Increases thirst
• Increased urination
• Vomiting
• Poor fur quality
• Bad breath
• Mouth ulcers

Early diagnosis can improve the cat's quality of life significantly, but when the symptoms occur, the damage to the kidneys is already substantial. The damage can't be reversed, but it is possible to slow down the progression of the disease with a proper diet and medication. It is also advisable to switch your furry friend to wet cat food, as it will increase their water intake and help with retention.

The best diet for your Bengal cat stud

Protein-rich cat food is the best option for your Bengal stud.

Image (c) Untamed

The good news is that most health problems in male Bengals can be prevented or managed with adequate portions of protein-rich, high-quality food that fulfils their dietary needs.

All felines have similar nutritional needs, but with various types of cat food, it is challenging to choose the right products. Whether you opt for wet, dry, semi-moist, homemade, or raw food, make sure the products you choose have enough:

1. Animal protein
2. Animal fat

Animal protein

Meat and fish are the only sources of essential amino acids—such as taurine and arginine—which felines need for:

• Energy
• Strong muscles
• Healthy skin and coat
• Normal organ function

Vegan and vegetarian diets are not suitable for cats. Plant-based food has no nutritional value and can cause allergic reactions and digestive problems, as cats lack the enzymes necessary to effectively break down protein from grains and vegetables.

The best sources of animal protein are:

• Chicken (raw or cooked)
• Liver
• Duck
• Turkey
• Tuna
• Prawns and shrimp
• Mackerel
• Salmon

Beef, ham, pork, and bacon are also acceptable, provided they are served as occasional treats because of their high-fat content.

Animal fat

Animal fat is an excellent secondary source of energy for felines and a natural taste enhancer. Cats love it, so even fussy eaters will enjoy high-quality jelly and gravy meals with a hint of animal fat. This is crucial because even the best food will mean nothing if your Bengal refuses to eat it.

What about carbs?

Most commercial products are filled with grains and carbs. These ingredients reduce the cost but have no nutritional value for felines. Unused calories from carbs quickly turn into fat, leading to obesity, which can lead to health issues, such as:

• Diabetes
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Joint problems

Good cat food should not include:

• Rice
• Wheat
• Corn or sweetcorn
• Soya
• Peas
• Potatoes and sweet potatoes
• Beans

Can Untamed keep your Bengal stud healthy?

Untamed has all your Bengal cat stud needs!

Image (c) Untamed

Untamed is your best bet at keeping your Bengal stud healthy, active, and happy.

We know that the best diet for felines should reflect what they would eat in the wild, so we made sure that all our recipes are:

• Full of meat and fish—Every Untamed tin contains twice as much protein as most commercially sold products
• Formulated by vets—Whether your Bengal is a kitten, adult, or senior, our vet-formulated recipes ensure that your feline friend gets all the protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals they need. We also have single-protein meals—Tuck-In Tuna in Jelly and Chocka Chicken in Jelly—suitable for kitties with sensitive tummies
• Grain and sugar-free—We steer clear of anything that felines don't need or like

Take our online quiz today, and we will help you create a tailor-made meal plan for your Bengal.

How to get Untamed

Getting our healthy and well-balanced meals to your door couldn't be easier! All you need to do to get a trial pack at a competitive price is:

1. Tell us about your Bengal stud
2. Pick the products 
3. Place your order

Your Bengal’s Untamed journey begins once you receive the starter pack. As soon as we get the meow of approval, we will keep you stocked up by delivering supplies of delicious Untamed meals every month.

Check out what satisfied cat parents who have already switched their tiny tigers to Untamed say you can expect: