At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Bengal | Toyger |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Weight | 6 to 12 lbs | 7 to 15 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Lap cat | No | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Bengal
Developed in the United States by Jean Mill in the 1970s and 1980s by crossing domestic cats with the wild Asian leopard cat. Its spotted or marbled coat often has a glitter sheen.
Bengals are very active, often love water and need plenty of play and climbing space.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-b)
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
The Toyger
Developed in California in the 1980s by Judy Sugden, who bred domestic cats to look like small tigers.
It is affectionate and laid back, despite its wild look.
Health to watch
- Heart murmurs
- Generally healthy otherwise
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Needs company
The Bengal needs more company than the Toyger.
Health issues
The Bengal tends to have more health issues than the Toyger.
Which to choose
Bengal or Toyger?
Choose the Toyger if…
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Bengal or the Toyger?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Bengal or the Toyger?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Bengal and Toyger have?
The Bengal is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-b), pyruvate kinase deficiency. The Toyger is prone to heart murmurs, generally healthy otherwise. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
