The goal of the Bengal breeding program is to create a domestic cat which has physical features distinctive to the small forest-dwelling wildcats, and with the loving, dependable temperament of the domestic cat.

A Bengal cat is an athletic animal, alert to its surroundings; a friendly, curious, confident cat with strength, agility, balance and grace. It is a medium to large cat which exhibits a very muscular and solid build.

Its wide nose with prominent whisker pads and large oval, almost round eyes in a slightly small head enhance the wild appearance and expressive nocturnal look. Its very slight, to nearly straight, concave profile and relatively short ears with wide base and rounded tips add to the Bengal’s distinctive and unique appearance. The short, dense coat has a uniquely soft and silky feel. The coat may be glittered or not glittered. Contrast with ground color must be extreme, giving distinct pattern and sharp edges. Strong, bold chin strap and mascara markings are desirable. A thick, low-set, medium-length tail adds balance to the cat.

Boning: Sturdy, firm; never delicate.
Musculature: Very muscular, especially in the males, one of the most distinguishing features.

Length: Short to medium. Allowance for slightly longer coat in kittens.
Texture: Dense and luxurious, closelying, unusually soft and silky to the touch.
Patterns: Spotted or marbled.
Spotted: Spots shall be random, or aligned horizontally. Rosettes showing two distinct colors or shades, such as paw print shaped, arrowhead shaped, doughnut or half-doughnut shaped or clustered are preferred to single spotting but not required.
Marbled: Marbled pattern should flow horizontally.