fingers crossed for you, I know what you mean about finding the right kitten.. near on impossible task I think!!!

A cross might have problems but I think it lessens the risk, especially if the cross is a Heinz 57 varieties

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generally speaking, of course there are no guarantees..

genetic defects tend to be concentrated in a restricted gene pool, the more in breeding the more likely it is to occur, and of course the higher up the pedigree line this occurs the more likely there is that lots of cats are affected.

In a wide gene pool there is less chance of both parents carrying the affected gene, so less chance of offspring carrying it, and less chance of it becoming a huge problem.

Of course that is an over simplistic view, but roughly how it works and why a pedigree breed needs responsible breeders who arm themselves with the knowledge of genetics and breed lines so that they can limit the chances of these mutations being "bred in" along with the desirable traits such as super high contrast large rosettes.

If the cross breed cat is from a high risk bengal line and a very low risk moggie then clearly it will have a much lower risk assessment than a cat with two high risk parents - this does not mean no risk, or no risk of any particular defect, but lower non the less.

Unless my limited knowledge of genetics is completely wrong, which is also a very good possibility

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That's how I understand it too Louise. My house doesn't feel
like a home without a cat. This is the longest I have been without one in thirty years and it's only been 11 weeks since Ra died. I really thought I could just find the right breeder and wait for a kitten but that's proving so difficult. I want to follow my head but my heart wants a little cat pal now! If I do take this rescue one in, and she may not like me so it's not a given, I can perhaps then find a Bengal boy kitten down the line once she is settled. I do like to have two to entertain each other but again that will only happen if the first cat is ok with company so all tricky stuff!

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The little monsters 3

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I spent 3 hours with Angus and Dylan the rescue cats today and they are fabulous. Very dog like in that Bengal way, and we bonded straight away. Played, wandered about the corridors, sat together in various rooms and generally had fun. They are so loving and responsive. Strolled along with me, answered to their names, loved a cuddle. We are going to adopt them. They don't look like Bengals, I will post pics when I get my laptop back but they are beautiful big tabby brothers. Dylan has a darker more marbled coat and Angus a silvery mackerel pattern. They were vocal and again not that deep Bengal voice, a midway between ordinary cat sound and Bengal. I think it's the confidence and inquisitive nature they have inherited most. Not sure if it was their sire or Dam who was the Bengal. To be honest I am a tiny bit disappointed they aren't pure Bengal but when I think of all the health problems poor old Ra had I feel a bit relieved too. Hopefully these lads will be more robust. I will see how things develop with these lovely chaps and maybe look for a Bengal girl kitten a bit down the line. for the moment I am excited and happy to have found a couple of chilled out loveable creatures to love.

Aww that's lovely and sounds like they're a couple of great cats who will fit in very well with you. When will you be able to bring them home?

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