Bengal
Facts & Advice

Like all cats, the Bengal can suffer from eye problems such as glaucoma (caused by increased pressure inside the eyeball); cataracts (opacity of the lens); entropion (inward rolling of the eyelids); retinal problems; or conjunctivitis (inflammation of the insides of a cat’s eyelids). Of these, Bengals are most prone to conjunctivitis, which has various causes including infections, scratches to or something within the eye’s surface, a lack of tear production, allergies, or entropion. Treatment of each eye condition depends on the type and severity of the problem, although many are treated using eyedrops.

Infections are caused by viruses and bacteria, and can be transferred from cat to cat through bite wounds. When cats fight (which is common outside of their normal social group) they often bite each other, transferring harmful viruses and bacteria into the soft tissue, which can become infected. Puncture wounds are often not obvious, but can result in fever and lethargy. Antibiotics, pain relief and sometimes lancing of the abscess is required to resolve the infection. Viral infections such as feline leukaemia and FIV (cat AIDS) are not curable, although feline leukaemia is easily prevented by a simple vaccination.

The Bengal, like all cats, can suffer from problems affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract is a long, winding tube that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus, with various twists and turns along the way. Signs of gastrointestinal disease include vomiting and diarrhoea. These symptoms can be caused by infections (such as campylobacter), poisoning or obstructions (caused by the cat eating something that can’t be digested), although these symptoms can indicate other more serious problems as well.

Cats’ kidneys are responsible for filtering the waste products from their blood into their urine. Bengals may be affected by kidney disease caused by infections, blockages, tumours or toxins (especially licking anti-freeze) as well as age related changes. Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidney function deteriorates gradually over a period of time. Treatment depends on the cause and the extent of damage, but usually begins by flushing the kidneys using intravenous fluids, followed by special diets and medications. Unfortunately kidney disease is irreversible, but with the right support many cats can enjoy a reasonably normal life.

Conditions that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra are collectively known as feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), which is more commonly referred to as cystitis. Bengals can suffer from these conditions, which can be caused by stress, not urinating enough, infections and bladder stones or crystals. Cats suffering from cystitis make frequent, painful attempts to urinate, and blood is often found in the urine. Treatment depends on the cause, but cats diagnosed with cystitis will usually require pain relief, access to plenty of water, special diets and perhaps some help to reduce stress.