Researchers studied hundreds of Bengal cats to uncover the genetic origins of their leopard-like patterns and found that their appearance stems largely from domesticated cats.

Bengal cats are relatively healthy, and you can expect them to live an average of 12 to 16 years or more with proper care. That doesn't mean they don't get hurt or sick.

History and Origins The Bengal cat is a relatively new breed of cat thatwas originally created by crossing an Asian Leopard Cat with a domestic cat in the USA. The Bengal cat derives its name from the Latin name of its wild ancestor, Felis Bengalensis (Asian Leopard Cat).

The Black (Melanistic) Bengal cat The colors of the background and the pattern are the same on a melanistic Bengal. Their patterns are called “ghost markings” or “ghost spots” because they are barely visible. But you can still see the pattern in daylight like you would on a black panther.