Many people falsely assume that Bengal cats are aggressive, but the truth is they are as prone to bad behaviour as any other domestic cat breed. This unfair belief stems from Bengals being bred from wild felines, specifically the Asian leopard cat.
Are Bengal Cats Dangerous?
Bengal cats are not inherently dangerous. They are regarded as fully domesticated, and no state regulates any cat that has been kept out of the wild for at least five generations.
Bengals, on the other hand, are a large breed of cat that has all the natural defenses that cats have. If not properly cared for, a large, out-of-control cat could become dangerous, but owning one won’t hurt anything. Poor training could result in this outcome. Their physical characteristics and size pose a greater threat than any underlying genetics.
Are Bengal Cats Aggressive?
Aggression between cats and humans isn’t documented in Bengals. However, cat and other animal aggression has been noted in 16.6% of Bengals, according to a survey done comprising Bengal owners. While 16.6% may not seem like a high number, it may be too high of a number for some pet parents to risk.
Inter-animal aggression in cats is not uncommon, especially among cats who were rescued. The ASPCA reports that around 27% of cats surrendered to shelters are surrendered because they’re aggressive to either people or other animals.
When it comes to temperament and aggression, bengals are bred to a far stricter set of requirements. Given that stray cat breeding is unregulated, it would make sense that Bengals would be less aggressive than stray cats.
Bengal cat behaviour problems
Bengals, like a lot of other cats, will become aggressive when they’re upset, dissatisfied, or bored. Since they are typically hyperactive from birth, your mini-leopard may pose some challenges to you if you don’t allow them to expend their energy or provide them with adequate attention.
You know how that ends, and I have nothing to do.
When something is not going their way, Bengals can be:
- Destructive
- Overly talkative
- Mouthy
- Depressed
- Fussy about the litter box
FAQ
Why does my Bengal cat keep attacking me?
Are Bengal cats aggressive with dogs?
Why do Bengal cats not like being held?