Hello everyone,

I'd like to introduce our Australian rescue Bengal Jackson. We are originally from the UK and have previously owned rescue Siamese cats. We didn't quite realise what we were letting ourselves in for with adopting a rescue Bengal cat. Sadly Jackson had been mistreated and when we first took him on he wouldn't let us near him with hands and often attacked us. We've now owned him for over two and a half years and at times he has challenged us but we've been as patient as we can with him and he does now trust us. Although he is not a lap cat he does give a lot of affection with head bonks and nose kisses. The only time he will snuggle with us is in winter but where he feels safe by our feet at the bottom of the bed. Jackson is a complicated character but we love him dearly, even when he decides to use his strong vocal chords. We are debating on whether to get another rescue Bengal as we worry he misses out on another cats company. I'd be interested to hear anyone's thoughts on whether a male or female companion would work best. Jackson is de-sexed and 5 in October this year.

Welcome. Good for you for taking in a rescue bengal, and having the patience to work through all the problems with a cat like that. That's really admirable. Much respect to you for achieving what you've achieved there.

I can't really offer any advice re: male-to-male or male-to-female is more desirable, as I don't really have any experience with that. I think there was a chapter in "Cat vs Cat" that discussed that topic, breaking down gender-to-gender interactions, as well as age-to-age interactions. I don't recall what their gender recommendation was, all I'm certain of is that they said what everyone says, and that is that "adult to adult" is the toughest combination of ages to manage.

I'm always a little bit skeptical when someone suggests that their adult cat needs another cat companion (the scene where Homer Simpson buys Marge a bowling ball for her birthday comes to mind for some reason). I get that some kittens that grow up together retain a close relationship into, and sometimes through, their adult years. But most of the time they'd be happiest on their own with their humans imo. But you know the personality of your kitty, so you're the best person to make that determination/guess.

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The little monsters 3

Really depends on the cat, my adult kitties were introduced to kittens and really loved the companionship, lots of social grooming and hanging out. The adults were around 7 years at the time and it was no problem. I will say I find it easier for a male + female or two neutered males. My females (when not related) were always a bit of diva's. I don't think either sex will be a problem but I generally go for the opposite sex. Again though, personality trumps all, so if you can pick out a cat based on personality, that would be best.

That being said, some kittens are over rambunctious and some even turn into bullies once they grow big and realize they can overpower an older cat with their young vigor.

Many bengals and cats in general end up in rescues/shelters because the family brought home a new kitten and it didn't work out.

I fostered some kitties and that is how I knew mine would get along with a playmate. If you wanted to help some cats in need, you could test the waters and foster some kittens/cats.

Hi there, welcome to the forum. I also have a rescue bengal who has had challenging behaviour! He is so settled and happy now but it did take a lot of time. I would be extremely wary of adding another cat. Bengals are highly territorial and it could really cause upset to Jackson who is settled and happy with you. Most cats prefer to be on their own unless they have been brought up with litter mates or great cat pals.

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Melissa

UK
Oscar - Rescue (Rascal!!!) Bengal

Welcome to our forum. We are not experts in your situation. Some members here have multiple bengals, others have bengals and other breeds. Thing is, every cat is different. They all have unique personalities. Sometimes we humans think our cat is bored and would love some other feline company. That could very well be the case, or it could not. Bringing in another adult bengal or any other breed can be difficult in getting them to co-exist without trying to kill each other. Some cat personalities just don't mix, period.

Bengal cats can be fine on their own. As long as they have a human for interaction -- they are fine. Thank you for rescuing this guy and having the time and patience to work with him. Trauma is horrible for a cat and sometimes they just never get past it. It may be easier to introduce a kitten rather than another adult cat.

I think every member here would have a different opinion. In the end, yours is all that really matters. While 2-1/2 years seems like a long time to deal with your bengal, you don't know if there is any improvement left that could come with more time. If only our cats could talk and reply to "would you like to have a baby brother or sister?"

If you truly want to share your home with another pet, by all means do so. It appears you have the patience to deal with any situation that may or may not come up.