While it’s easy to see why so many people love Bengal cats, but, like any cat breed, they aren’t necessarily the right fit for every family. Sometimes there are Bengal cat behavior problems that can make raising them challenging. It’s worth knowing what you should expect when you bring a Bengal cat home. Of course, most of these traits are shared between cat breeds, not just Bengal cats specifically. So, how do Bengal cats behave?
Bengals aren’t prone to having more behavioral issues than other cat breeds. They can be high-maintenance and communicate their issues frequently. Some Bengal cats may be very demanding while others are docile. Common behaviors include scratching, meowing loudly, biting, and urinating.
Like all cats, the most important thing for avoiding behavioral issues is to make sure that all their needs are met. Still, it’s better to be prepared in case your new furry companion does throw a few challenges your way. In this article, we’ll share some of the most common Bengal cat behavior issues you may come across, and helpful ways to deal with them.
Common Bengal Behavior Problems
To emphasize, most of these problems can occur with any cat breed. Some are universal, while Bengal cats are a little more prone to some of these behaviors than other cats.
Bengals Get Lonely
Raising a Bengal cat can be tough, especially when it comes to giving your cat the attention it needs.
Bengal cats are more prone to loneliness than other breeds thanks to their exceptionally social nature and their tight bonds with their companions, be those companions their owners or other pets in your home.
The loneliness itself isn’t a behavior problem, of course. The problem is that when your Bengal is feeling lonely or under-stimulated, they’re a lot more likely to act out. They’re trying to entertain themselves and to get your attention.
That might mean tipping things off the counters and tables or clawing at furniture or being particularly noisy and demanding when you get home.
Unfortunately, no matter how mild these behaviors are when they first start, your Bengal will probably begin to escalate if you don’t do something to fix the problem.
Loneliness can be a hard problem to tackle for Bengal cats, especially if everyone in the home needs to be gone for long work hours. You can try giving them additional toys, or even a cattio, to help fill the hours when you’re away.
If all else fails, you may want to consider getting another cat to keep your Bengal company. They might not get along right away, but especially if you adopt another high-energy cat, chances are they’ll be friends faster than you expect.
Bengals Can Be Destructive When Bored
This common behavior problem goes hand in hand with boredness. Bengal cats can often be somewhat destructive if they don’t have enough stimulation. Since they are a high-energy cat, it’s relatively easy for them to get bored.
When they are looking for toys, it’s common for you to find scratched furniture, carpets, and even knocked over decorations.
Bengals Might Avoid Litterboxes
Another common behavior problem among Bengal cats is litterbox avoidance. This is less resistance to litterbox use itself and more an attempt by your Bengal to make their territory.
It’s most common when you first bring a Bengal home and may be a sign that there aren’t enough litterboxes in their new home, or that they’d like their litterboxes a little cleaner. They may also be trying to spread their scent, so it’s essential to make sure you completely clean up any accidents so that the scent doesn’t linger.
Bengals can occasionally develop this behavior when you bring a new cat home, even if they haven’t shown any signs of litterbox problems before.
If you Bengal is anxious or doesn’t feel comfortable in their home, that may be one reason for persistent litterbox problems. If your Bengal shows other signs of anxiety, or doesn’t learn good litterbox behavior quickly, consider talking to your vet about possible solutions.
Bengals Are Talkative
Usually, we’d consider a talkative cat a good thing, since it’s a lot easier to tell when your cat is distressed or needs something if they are vocal about it.
However, when your feline friend is waking you up in the middle of the night or continually meowing through your favorite movies and TV shows, it can be a problem.
Unfortunately, there aren’t many good ways to address this behavior problem. Some cats will respond to you saying their name or snapping your fingers when you don’t want them talking, but most Bengals will complain about being yelled at before changing their behavior.
A better option might be to keep your cat away from places where their talking might be disruptive. Or you can try providing toys and treats to help keep your Bengal occupied when you need a little quieter.
Bengals Can Be Mouthy
No, we’re not still talking about their talking habits. Bengal cats, like many other cat breeds, often express themselves with their teeth. They can often chew on fingers and even toes as a sign of affection.
More problematic is when a Bengal decides a sharp bite might communicate their irritation better than anything else.
Bengal cats can be trained out of biting behavior, like any cats, but you should be aware of it before deciding that they are the breed for you.
Bengals can even be more prone to bite other cats, though, like most aggressive behaviors, that will calm down as your Bengal gets to know your other pets.
Bengals are Scratchers
We’ve already mentioned that Bengal cats can be somewhat destructive when they are bored or lonely. Well, they are also just prone to scratching anytime. Carpets and furniture are common targets, but almost any soft surface is likely to get your Bengal’s attention.
Cat trees, scratching pads, and other scratching safe surfaces are a great way to redirect your Bengal to a more appropriate scratching target. It would be best if you still planned on spending some time working on claw training and teaching your Bengal not to scratch your furniture.
A little time spent in training goes a long way with Bengals, and the sooner you start training them away from destructive scratching, the more likely it is to stick.
Bengals Can Get Depressed
Bengal cats can get depressed if their needs aren’t seen to, especially if they are lonely or bored regularly.
A depressed Bengal is more likely to act out. They’re also more likely to hide from you, other cats, and other members of your household. They might become more prone to jumping into high places and creeping into out of the way corners, especially if they think they might not be seen in those areas.
The depression itself is usually curable, but it can cause a host of other behavioral issues. Every issue we’ve discussed in this article, from litter problems to scratching furniture, can be heightened when your Bengal cat is depressed.
Be particularly aware of the litter box issues. If a cat starts getting used to not using the litter box to dispose of waste, you could end up with quite a mess around the home. To help with this you could put toys, treats, and other calming items your cat likes near the litter box. Having this comfort will make them more comfortable using the litter box. If you find your Bengal cat is using the bathroom in unwanted locations, you could put deterrents there. Scat mats, or even aluminum foil which scares cats can be effective.
Bengal Cats Can Get Into Water Mischief
The last big behavior problem that Bengal cats often get into has to do with their love of water. These cats will play in the water, and even sometimes like to go for a swim. This means that they are likely to spill your water glasses, get into wet dishes, and any other water mischief they can get into.
It’s good to keep bathroom doors closed unless you want to find your feline friend exploring your toilet and shower.
Bengals are also likely to be curious about bath time and may even try to join you in the tub if they get an opportunity.
While some people love Bengal cats’ affinity for water, it can be more bothersome for others. It all depends on how willing you are to manage their curiosity.
My name is James, and welcome to FAQCats!
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