7 Things You Didn’t Know about Long Hair (Cashmere) Bengal Cat

We all know what Bengal cats look like and all their traits. Bengals are known for their striking leopard-like coat and playful personality. But have you ever heard of long-haired Cashmere Bengal cats? This exotic variety takes the glamour to a whole new level with its luxurious, silky fur.

Despite its plush appearance, the Cashmere Bengal is more than just a pretty face. From its athletic prowess to its unique grooming needs, plenty of intriguing tidbits exist to discover. So sit back and prepare to be amazed by these 7 things you probably didn’t know about the Long Hair Cashmere Bengal cat.

History and Overview of Long hair Bengal Cat

At first glance, you might believe that the long-haired Bengal cat is a new addition to the world of exotic cat breeds. However, dig a little deeper into their history, and you’ll discover an intriguing tale. Since the very inception of Bengal cat breeding, every once in a while, a litter would surprise breeders with a kitten sporting long, lustrous fur amid its short-haired siblings. These long-haired oddities, not fitting the conventional Bengal blueprint, were often neutered or spayed upon maturing.

Over time, a few visionary breeders saw the untapped potential in these fluffy Bengals. They perceived the inherent beauty and decided to cultivate this distinct characteristic intentionally. Known as the Cashmere Bengal, these cats boast all the vivaciousness and dynamism of typical Bengals, with the added allure of a long, silky coat that enhances their magnificence.

This journey from being viewed as an aberration to a desired trait has stirred some debate in the feline community. While U.S. breeders are pushing to recognize these cats as long-haired Bengals, a standard variant of the original breed, their European counterparts are advocating for Cashmeres to be hailed as a separate breed in its entirety.

The evolution of perception surrounding these beautiful cats is truly a testament to the ever-changing landscape of feline appreciation.

Cashmere Bengal cat personality

The long-haired or Cashmere Bengal cat, with its flowing mane, might look like an entirely different feline, but don’t let those lush deceive you. Beneath that elegant exterior, they’re strikingly similar in personality to their short-haired Bengal counterparts.

Known for their sharp intellect and insatiable curiosity, these cats bear a delightful resemblance to dogs in terms of trainability. Yes, Cashmeres can not only master tricks but also strut confidently on a leash, much like their sleek-coated kin.

Energetic Cashmeres will keep you on your toes with their acrobatic feats. And if you’ve ever wondered about the curious case of disappearing household items, from hairbands to keys, you might catch this mischievous feline in the act! Adding to their list of quirky traits, Cashmeres, like other Bengals, possess an unexpected affinity for water.

Yet, amidst their vibrant escapades, these cats have a tender side. Deeply affectionate, they create profound connections with their human companions, mirroring the close-knit bond seen with short-haired Bengals.

Fluffy Bengal cat appearance

When you think about a Bengal, what comes to mind? A striking beauty with unique markings, right? Now, what about a long-haired Cashmere Bengal? The aptly named Cashmere cat, whose standout feature is its lush, velvety coat, undoubtedly fits this description. The moniker Cashmere isn’t merely a fancy term; it was bestowed upon these cats because their fur’s texture and finesse are reminiscent of this premium fiber.

Fluffy Bengal cats don’t have a uniform hair length. Depending on the individual, their coat might exude the elegance of a Turkish Angora or have the denser fluffiness akin to Maine Coons. But here’s the catch: even though their fur is long, it resembles the smoothness and silkiness of a Bengal’s pelt more than other long-haired breeds. In fact, their fur is so fine and sleek that some breeders assert that these cats shed less and might even bypass the frequent brushing ritual.

When it comes to hues and patterns, Cashmere cats are a visual delight. Their coats can flaunt spots or rosettes, making them look like little, fluffy leopards. Alternatively, they might showcase a marbled design, with dark whirls gracefully playing against their silky, lighter background. From golden browns to snowy ivories adorned with two-toned spots or dark marbling, these cats are a testament to nature’s artistry.

Things you need to know before getting a Long haired Bengal

1. Long hair is a natural purebreed

Many might think of Bengals as sleek, short-haired cats, but here’s a surprise: long, silky-haired Bengals have been around as long as the breed itself! Historically, this long hair was seen as a flaw. Breeders, aiming for that wild, sleek look, would often sideline these fluffy kittens. If one were born, it’d typically be neutered and sold at a reduced price.

But times are changing. Some breeders are now embracing this unique trait. Rather than dodging the long hair gene, they’re actively searching for it, aiming to produce more of these fluffy Bengals, known as Cashmere Bengals. They hope to get more of these gorgeous, long-haired kittens by pairing two cats with this gene.

2. Cashmere Bengal have personality traits of short-haired Bengals

Cashmere Bengals often face a mistaken belief: that they’re not real Bengals because of their long hair. The truth? They’re every bit as purebred as their short-haired relatives. The only difference is a gene that gives them that luxurious coat.

Regarding personality, Cashmere Bengals are just as vibrant and dynamic as other Bengals. These cats are smart, lively, and brimming with curiosity. Fancy teaching a cat tricks or taking one for a stroll on a leash? A Cashmere Bengal is up for it! Their loyalty runs deep, often forming strong bonds with their human companions.

With the right start, these fluffy Bengals will be seen dashing after toys, curiously observing birds, and providing endless entertainment. They’re not just pretty faces; they’re fun-loving family cats!

3. Cashmere Bengals Don’t need to be brushed

A long-haired cat gives you the vision of brushing the hair, right? But guess what? You don’t have to struggle with the hair with a cashmere Bengal. Blessed with a soft, silky coat, these felines don’t tangle or mat easily. Their own natural grooming habits suffice to keep their fur in tip-top condition. Owners often delightfully discover that these cats might shed less than other breeds.

Moreover, there’s chatter among enthusiasts suggesting that Cashmere Bengals might even possess some hypoallergenic qualities. So, if you’re captivated by their wild beauty and luxurious coat, rest easy! Owning a Cashmere Bengal won’t come with the constant brushing tasks that other long-haired breeds demand.

4. Can’t tell if a Bengal have Long hair until they’re older

If you have a Bengal kitten, determining whether it will grow to have long hair can be a bit of a waiting game. Unlike certain traits that are immediately visible at birth, the length and texture of a Bengal’s fur may take time to manifest fully. While kittens might appear fluffy due to their initial downy undercoat, this doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll grow into a long-haired adult.

5. Cashmere Will be recognized as a new breed

The allure of long-haired Bengals, commonly known as Cashmere Bengals, is gaining momentum, especially within European breeding circles. While their existence isn’t a recent phenomenon, the growing appreciation for their distinct beauty has sparked a movement among breeders.

In Europe, there’s a push to elevate the status of Cashmere Bengals, advocating for their recognition as a distinct breed. A milestone moment in 2017 saw Cashmere Bengals being welcomed into championship competitions with TICA.

6. Cashmeres have wonderful striking markings

Many think that a long-haired Bengal has fewer striking marks, but in reality, a cashmere Bengal contains the same amount of spots on their bodies. Whether it’s the pronounced rosettes reminiscent of leopards or the elegant marbled patterns that ebb and flow like liquid gold across their coat, each marking adds depth and individuality to the cat.

These markings, often contrasting vividly against their silky base coat, give them an exotic and wild appearance akin to the majestic wild cats of the jungle. For enthusiasts and casual observers alike, the blend of their long, soft fur coupled with these mesmerizing patterns makes Cashmere Bengals a standout, leaving a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to witness their beauty.

7. Cashmeres love water

Cashmere Bengal cats break the feline stereotype with their love for water. Unlike most domestic cats that shy away from it, Bengals often display a curious and even enthusiastic approach to water. It’s not uncommon to find these cats pawing at a dripping tap, indulging in playful splashes in a bathtub, or even joining their owners for a gentle shower.

From water toys to supervised paddles in shallow pools, these cats prove that not all felines hate getting wet!

Final thoughts

In the ever-evolving world of cat breeds, the Cashmere, or long-haired Bengal, stands out as a testament to nature’s amazing beauty. If you want to adopt a Bengal, you can consider bringing a cashmere home. It will give you the strong feeling of having a Bengal and a long-haired furry friend.

Their love for water, intelligence, and striking appearance make them an enchanting choice for cat enthusiasts. As breeders globally take notice and work towards their wider recognition, the Cashmere Bengal is not just a passing fascination but a majestic feline that holds a special place in the tapestry of cat breeds.

Their emergence and growing popularity remind us of the endless wonders and variations the cat world offers.