Hello!

I'm new to this forum and I have been researching various Bengal breeders located in both Northern and Southern California. Does anyone know of any really reputable breeders in those areas? I'm excited to have these new additions to my home, but I want to be sure that I am making the right decision in the breeder. There are simply too many to choose from! Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

I'm currently dealing with Amantra Bengals (located in So. Cal.)

It's my first time dealing with Janice (the owner) and I can say she's very helpful and friendly. She welcomes phone calls and doesn't mind emails or questions. She's sent progress photos and the kittens look healthy and happy. She even agreed to driving a bit north to meet me so I don't have to drive as far. (I'm in the SF Bay Area).

She has also agreed to: buying a blanket for the boys so they have something with their smell; letting me buy a carrier and having it shipped to her home so when we meet, the boys don't have to transfer carriers.

When I did some searches for Amantra I read nothing bad or negative, but some people spoke highly. Also, I had been in contact with another CA breeder who spoke highly of Janice.

She currently has some Bengals up on her page http://www.amantrabengals.com/available.html

I will also say that when I asked to see the kittens early (they were just six weeks) she declined because she didn't want her kittens exposes to any health issues and that impressed me. She also declined when I asked to pick them up later (at 14 weeks) because she wanted them to get the most socializing time with me as possible. Both of these things really did impress me.

She also offers a two-year health guarantee as well as a one-week money back guarantee.

Overall, I'm very pleased with Janice and how she's handling this rookie (me!)

Thanks Senior Bengal!

Yes, I would recommend Amantra as well, very friendly and helpful, plus she has really high quality cats! Check out Khan on her available page right now...he is over the top stunning! I really, really wish I was in the market for a second Bengal right now!

Has anyone heard anything about Ekambar Bengals in Sacramento? They seem to have some beautiful kitties as well, but I can't find any feedback from Bengals owners/kitty guardians about them.

You are correct the kittens are beautiful on Amantra's website as well. Khan is to die for!!

Thank you again for your responses!

I've always been impressed with what I see on the Cheetahsden webpage. Formerly located in Texas now in California. I believe they may have been recognized as a Breeder of Distinction at some point. Amantra Bengals have more flash, IMHO. Very pretty cats.

As an owner of bengals over the years, I highly recommend Amantra Bengals. Our bengal, Shaka Zulu, is gorgeous and was wonderfully socialized by Janice before we got him. He is totally wild bengal, but so sweet and loving. Everyone who has met him comments on his unique rosettes, amazing blue green eyes, and wonderful connection with people (even newly introduced or in veterinary setting). He is amazing and I will go to Amantra for bengals in the future!

The best route to take when choosing a breeder is to actually visit the breeder. Most will allow visits if planned in advance. This gives you an opportunity to see the cattery and the cats and meet the owners. There are countless success stories and a few bad breeders. The majority of the breeders are great in the beginning when they are wanting your money. The key is how they help you out AFTER you get the kitten home. Will they still respond to questions. Will they help out in the event of a health issue? Will they agree to take the kitty back if something isn't quite right? Doing online research can be a huge help as well. Don't just put in the name of the cattery, ut put the breeder's actual name in as well. If there has been a problem, it's probably posted somewhere.

Good luck!