While not from another country, I did purchase both of my Bengal kittens from interstate. So I had to make my decision based on photos and descriptions alone. This was purely because I did not have a reputable breeder close to where I live.
If you have breeders within a driving distance, I really would recommend more than anything to go and visit them. I was somewhat lucky with mine. My girl is a dream, walked straight out of her crate and gave us cuddles and explored the minute we brought her home. Loves being picked up and cuddles and purrs right away, not scared of anything. Her breeders were highly recommended by everyone and I really trusted them. My boy on the other hand, not so much. He was very scared when we brought him home, would hide from us, run away if we approached him, would claw, bite and scratch. I unfortunately made the mistake of falling in love with a photo of him and buying him on the spot, rather than thinking the decision through. While he still is on the skittish side, lots of love has turned him into a very special, sweet, loving boy, who will even tolerate short cuddles.
If I had to make the decision again, however, I would definitely visit a breeder in person. You just get so much more information and insight that way.
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