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Bengal
The Bengal Cat resulted from the cross breeding of the Asian Leopard Cat with domestic cats, to create an exotic looking animal with coat markings resembling a leopard. The name Bengal originates with the scientific name of the Asian Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), rather than from any connection to Bengal tigers which are not part of their heritage. Cross breeding of these two is recorded back to the 1890's, but not common until the 1960's and 1970's in the US when Jean Sugden began a breeding program aimed at "putting a leopard coat on a domestic cat". Today's Bengals are a tribute to the success of her efforts. The Bengal's coat is known for its spotted pattern and is available now in several colors, all with a light/white colored belly. While many are brown tabby, more exotic colors like the snow lynx fascinate cat fanciers. The Bengal is active and playful; since the Asian Leopard Cat in their background likes to fish, they enjoy playing in water. They are active, intelligent and inquisitive and many learn to "fetch" just like a dog. In short, they are a fascinating, people-oriented, unusual pet.