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Pet Insurance for Bengal Cats

Bengal cats are known for their wild appearance and playful personalities. Find out more about them, their common conditions and the potential costs of pet insurance with Savvy today!

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, updated on September 11th, 2023       

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Price range

$450 – $2,500

Height

25–35cm

Weight

3.5–7kg

Coat length

Short

Life expectancy

9–15 years

Personality

Active, curious, affectionate

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Suitable for

Active families and individuals

Bengal

Overview

Bengal cats are a captivating breed, renowned for their striking resemblance to wild leopard cats. Established in 1963, their origins can be traced back to a cross between Asian leopard cats and domestic cats, giving them a unique blend of wild appearance and domesticated charm.

Bengals are recognisable for their distinctive coat, which can be spotted or marbled in appearance. However, despite their wild roots and exotic appearance, the cats can be easily tamed and generally enjoy human company.

Known for their love of water and play, Bengal cats are both engaging and entertaining. They thrive in environments where they can engage in play and exploration, but can also be incredibly affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, making them wonderful companions for active families and individuals.

Common Bengal cat diseases and conditions

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): Bengal cats often suffer from HCM, a genetic heart condition that thickens heart walls, affecting heart function. Symptoms include lethargy, breathing difficulties and mouth breathing. There is no cure, but treatments manage symptoms and heart health.
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic disorder that impairs Bengal cats’ retinas, starting with night vision issues. Unfortunately, there is no treatment or prevention, and it leads to blindness within 1 to 2 years.
  • Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD): PKD, a genetic disorder, results in anaemia with symptoms like lethargy, weakness, weight loss and abdominal enlargement. There is no cure, so genetic testing is vital for kittens.
  • Feline dental disease: Bengal cats are prone to dental problems, including gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth resorption. Symptoms include refusal to eat, bad breath, drooling, and hesitant eating. Regular dental care helps, while severe cases may require tooth extractions.
  • Lymphoma: Bengals have a higher risk of lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Treatments include chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Bengal cat?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Bengal cat, including the following:

  • Age: premiums for older felines generally rise due to heightened health risks associated with aging, while younger cats may be cheaper to insure.
  • Coverage selection: your choice of insurance coverage significantly influences the premium you pay. While comprehensive plans offer broader protection, they typically come with higher premiums. On the other hand, accident-only plans are more affordable but exclusively cover injuries resulting from accidents.
  • Pre-existing health issues: pets with existing medical conditions might face elevated insurance premiums, and some insurers could exclude coverage for specific ailments.
  • Geographical factors: veterinary care expenses can differ by location, with urban areas often associated with higher costs compared to rural regions, which can impact pet insurance costs.
  • Discounts and offers: some insurers provide discounts for multiple pets, bundling policies or enrolling your cat at a young age.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Bengal cats

How much stimulation does my Bengal cat need?

Bengals are highly active and need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders and play sessions are essential to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

Are Bengal cats vocal?

Yes – Bengal cats are known for being vocal and may use various sounds to communicate with their owners, making them quite talkative pets.

Are Bengal cats hypoallergenic?

No – Bengal cats are not hypoallergenic. However, some people with cat allergies find they have fewer reactions to Bengals due to their short coat and lower dander production.

Can I let my Bengal cat outdoors?

Allowing your Bengal cat outdoors requires careful consideration, not only for their safety but also for the protection of local wildlife. Bengals’ natural curiosity for outdoor exploration can put them at risk of traffic accidents and exposure to diseases. Moreover, their hunting instincts pose a threat to birds and other small animals. To mitigate these risks, consider supervised outdoor time using a harness and leash. Alternatively, you can create enclosed outdoor spaces or enclosures where your Bengal can safely enjoy the outdoors without posing a threat to the local ecosystem.

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Bengal

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