What’s the distinction between the Bengal and the Toyger cat? A greater query is: would you like an Asian Leopard Cat or a toy tiger?
The Bengal and Toyger are very comparable concerning look and genetics, with probably the most notable distinction being character. On this publish, we break down the similarities and variations so you may select the precise pet on your residence.
Visible Variations
At a Look
Bengal
Toyger
Bengal Overview
The Bengal is a hybrid breed between a home cat and the wild Asian Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). The Asian Leopard Cat is about the identical dimension as a home cat however has attractive leopard-like markings, making it a major goal for poachers.
Over time, Asian Leopard Cats shortly moved up on the endangered listing, sparking a hearth in cat breeder and conservationist Jean Mill.
Mill needed a home cat species with an unique look to discourage rich ladies from buying the Asian Leopard Cat’s furs, lowering the demand for poached furs usually.
In 1963, Mill started tinkering with the Asian Leopard Cat and home cat genetics. The end result was a small cat with unique options however the temperament of a domesticated cat.
Character & Character
Proudly owning a Bengal is like proudly owning a home leopard. These cats are impartial, extremely energetic, and in tune with their wild ancestors’ need to discover and play. They require train and psychological stimulation far past the standard home cat. Nevertheless, as a result of they’re a novel breed, they’re liable to being stolen if exterior unsupervised.
You’ll be able to stop habits issues with correct train and psychological stimulation, akin to cat timber, thoughts video games, toys, and frequent walks. Even so, Bengals are recognized to have “odd” cat habits, like stealing objects and hiding them round the home, or enjoying within the kitchen sink. Bengals will even play fetch when given the chance!
Grooming & Look
Bengal cats are medium-sized cats with small, spherical heads and enormous eyes, however their most notable options are their markings. They’ve facial markings just like tabby cats and leopard-like spots or rosettes. Their fur and markings are available in numerous colours, with rust and black being the commonest.
As well as, Bengals have lengthy again legs in comparison with their entrance legs. This enables them to have an extended, extra highly effective stride.
Appropriate For:
Bengals want an skilled cat proprietor who’s bodily lively and might meet their train necessities. They do finest in houses with out babies and different pets however can be taught to tolerate them.
Toyger Overview
The Toyger is likely one of the latest cat breeds to this point. Actually, the Toyger didn’t earn eligibility for cat exhibits till 2007, when the Worldwide Cat Affiliation formally listed it as a championship breed.
Throughout the Eighties, when Jean Mill was breeding Bengal Cats, her daughter Judy Sugden labored on her personal mission.
Like her mom, Sugden owned a Bengal and sooner or later seen spots on the Bengal’s brow the place the tabby “M” must be. Sugden used the chance and commenced breeding her Bengal with a tabby to create a home cat with a tiger-like look.
Character & Character
The title “Toyger” blends the phrases “toy” and “tiger,” however don’t be fooled by this title. In contrast to Bengals, Toyger cats are less difficult going since their genetics are additional faraway from their wild ancestors.
Nonetheless, Toygers are vocal, energetic kitties who take pleasure in playtime and snuggles. Their calm demeanor makes them a great selection for households with youngsters and pets in comparison with the Bengal. Toygers are nonetheless extremely lively and change into bored simply, so provide loads of enrichment and psychological stimulation for a nice, loving cat.
Well being
Toygers haven’t any main well being circumstances however may be inclined to coronary heart murmurs. Other medical conditions like weight problems and dental illness change into points if sufficient train is absent or the situation is left unmonitored.
Grooming & Look
Toyger Cats are medium-sized cats with quick hair and vivid orange fur. The underbelly seems to be a softer white shade. Throughout the again are black and brown tiger stripes with a slight shine. Apparently, every cat’s fur sample is uniquely totally different from each other.
Toyger Cats have round markings on their face with a head form described as “half-hexagon.” These cats are lean and muscular with lengthy our bodies (though not so long as Bengals). The ears are spherical and small.
Appropriate For:
Toygers are appropriate for lively, current households with youngsters and pets.
Which Breed Is Proper for You?
The Bengal and Toyger Cats are very comparable in look and genetics, however they’ve small variations that make an enormous distinction total. Finally, it will depend on your way of life.
Bengal Cats are extra carefully associated to the Asian Leopard Cat, so their character is very inquisitive and wild. They’ll do properly with pets and kids however do finest in houses the place they’ve the proprietor all to themselves.
However, Toyger Cats are extra welcoming of babies and pets. They’re equally inquisitive and energetic however are extra keen to loosen up and snuggle.
The selection is as much as you. Which of those cats do you assume would do finest in your house now?
Featured Picture Credit score: (T) TheCats, Shutterstock | (B) Anna Korovina, Shutterstock
