Bengal cats are generally strong, athletic, and long-lived. However, like all purebred cats, the breed has known genetic predispositions that require responsible monitoring. Ethical breeding is built on transparency, prevention, and comprehensive health screening.
Common Health Conditions in the Bengal Breed
The following conditions are recognized within the breed and are routinely monitored by responsible breeders:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-rdAc / PRA-b)
An inherited eye condition that leads to gradual vision loss. It is inherited recessively and can be fully prevented through genetic testing and responsible pairing.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK-Def / PD)
A genetic metabolic disorder affecting red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia in affected cats. Carriers show no symptoms but can pass the gene if not properly managed.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
A heart condition characterized by thickening of the heart muscle. While no single genetic test exists for Bengals, early detection through cardiac ultrasound is essential.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
A hereditary kidney disorder that can cause cyst formation and impaired kidney function. Genetic screening allows complete exclusion from breeding programs.
Infectious Disease Screening
In addition to genetic testing, infectious diseases are an essential part of any responsible health protocol:
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Both are serious viral conditions that can compromise immune health and quality of life.
Our Health Testing Standards
The health of our cats is never assumed — it is verified. All breeding cats in our program are tested with the following results:
FeLV / FIV — N / N; PK-Def (PD) — N / N; PRA-rdAc — N / N;
PKD — N / N; PCR testing — N / N
In addition, all breeding cats undergo regular cardiac echocardiograms performed by qualified veterinary specialists to monitor heart health and screen for HCM.
Our Commitment
Health testing is not a formality — it is a responsibility.
By combining genetic screening, infectious disease testing, and cardiac evaluations, we ensure that our Bengals are bred with the highest standards of care, integrity, and long-term wellbeing in mind.
