The high popularity of all Bengal cats, despite their high cost, is easy to explain, it’s the equivalent of owning a small copy of a cheetah, leopard, or jaguar. Bengals also come in a black color reminiscent of a panther.
The black Bengal is yet to be recognized by official feline associations. The Black Bengal comes in two varieties – the Charcoal ash and the black Melanistic.
The Genetics Behind the Black Melanistic Bengal Cat
Some argue that the “coal” genes Apb-a or Apb + Apb are much darker than the currently recognized colors of Bengal cats. Others emphasize that black and smoky shades from the charcoal range were especially noticeable in the early (F1, F2) generations of Bengalis.
Charcoal traits are inherited regardless of the color of the Bengal parents, they can be manifested in each of the classes – brown, silver, blue, even snow.
Charcoal Bengal
The coal color has no color code. A rare color, the background is cold, light, the pattern is black, and there is a mask on the face. At birth, the embers look completely black with light bellies. Coal Bengals completely lack rufous (yellow or brown tint).
Melanistic Bengal
The Melanistic is an extremely rare color, reminiscent of a miniature panther. Melanistic can be in different colors, most often black, but it can be absolutely any, for example, melanistic mink. Cats of this color are visually absolutely monochromatic.
However, very often in the light, at a certain angle, even darker spots (rosettes) or a marble pattern can be distinguished. Although in kittenhood, all melanists have a clearly visible pattern, rosettes or marble, with age it is painted over with glitter. This color is very difficult to breed, the rarest and most expensive. But such beauty is worth it!
Black Bengal Size & Weight
Black Bengal Size
- Female: Approximately 13 Inches
- Male: Approx 13 Inches
The Bengal male reaches adult size by 24 months of age; the female, on the other hand, does it earlier, at 12.
Black Bengal weight
- Cat: Between 10 and 15 Pounds
- Cat: Between 12 and 17 Pounds
Black Bengal Temperament & Personality
Black Bengals combine the physical characteristics of a panther with the gentle nature of a domestic cat.
On the one hand, Black Bengals are very independent and show with all their appearance that they are predators, strong and dexterous. They are excellent hunters, and their instincts greatly influence their behavior. Therefore, if there are smaller animals in the house, the Bengal can mistake them as prey.
On the other hand, it is difficult to find a more affectionate and outgoing breed. Constant contact with the owner of these cats is very important: with a lack of attention, they run wild and turn into little leopards. But, socializing your kitten from kittenhood will turn your Bengal into a faithful, loyal and affectionate friend.
Such character traits make the Bengal an almost ideal cat for families with small children.
Bengals have a hard time being separated from their owners. Therefore, if the owner has a need to leave the animal with someone, it is better if they are people who are familiar and close to the family. Otherwise, the cat may refuse to eat and become depressed.
Black Bengal Health & Life Span
The life expectancy of the Black Bengal
The Bengal can live 10 to 16 years.
Resistant / Robust
Its thick coat makes it a cold-resistant cat, although it should not be forgotten that its hair is short and its undercoat is moderate.
Tendency to gain weight
Given the nutritional needs of this cat, it can easily gain weight if its food rations are not adequate. It is always advisable to follow the advice of your veterinarian.
Common diseases
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency, which causes anemia.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a disease that causes an enlargement of the heart muscle. This pathology causes heart failure that can lead to arrhythmias or even lung edema or thrombosis of an artery. The short-haired American is more prone to it than his long-haired cousin.
- Progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause total blindness.
Certain specimens can suffer from the same diseases as other domestic cats, such as ailments that affect the mouth and teeth (tartar and gingivitis, for example).
Reproduction
No cross with this breed is authorized.
Black Bengal Grooming & Maintenance
Unlike many other cat breeds, Black Bengals are very fond of water and love to swim. Therefore, if you leave a filling bathtub, basin, or any other container of water unattended, keep in mind that your cat can happily splash in it.
Bengals have a silky, soft-touch coat. In the sun, it shimmers with golden hues. Many people say that these cats are very pleasant to pet. It does not need any special care or frequent combing.
In general, cleanliness is a characteristic feature of this breed. These cats quickly and easily get used to the litter box and do not tolerate dirt, so the owner should regularly clean the litter box: at the slightest hint of an unpleasant odor, the cat may refuse to go into it.
How Much is Black Bengal Cat?
A Black Bengal Kitten has an average tag price of $3900-$5000. Some Breeders could even offer Black Bengal Kittens for $5800 or even higher.
The price would depend on many factors, such as the kitten’s lineage, parents, health, and the breeder’s reputation.
Aside from the kitten’s price, it would be best to consider the expenses that would come with it. For instance, you may want to get the essential things for your kittens like grooming tools, food, and shelter.
Names For Black Bengal Cats
If you’re looking for names for your new black Bengal cat, this roundup is a great place to start.
- Luna
- Jack
- Stella
- Loki
- Shadow
- Pepper
- Oreo
- Smokey
- Boo
- Olive
- Ichabod
- Igor
- October
- Autumn
- Wednesday
- Candy
- Phantom
- Dracula
- Harlow
- Monster
Where Can You Find a Black Bengal Cat? | How do you get a black Bengal cat?
Here are some great Black Melanistic Bengal Cats Breeders In the united states that might be able to help.
These platforms will help you connect with people who have Bengal Kittens for sale or adoption near you. It can be a great alternative in looking for your future kitten within the comfort of your home.
Adopt A Pet
If you want to give an abandoned kitten a second chance, a shelter is definitely the place to find one.
Adopt a pet is North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website. They help over 21,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies advertise their homeless pets to millions of adopters a month, for free.
GoKitty
GoKitty matches lovable kittens with caring owners. You can browse their breed profiles to find the perfect match for your lifestyle. Peruse the available kittens or cats for sale within your matching breeds then save your favorites. When you are ready, contact the cat breeders, rescues, or pet owners of your favorite kittens to learn more and plan your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bengal Cats Hypoallergenic?
They do not shed and are hypoallergenic.
Are Bengal Cats Friendly?
They adapt well to the family and get along with other animals. They do not mind playing with the dog.
Are Bengal cats afraid of water?
They are not afraid of water, but on the contrary, they love to frolic with it.
