Bengal cats, a fairly new hybrid of the Asian Leopard Cat and domestic cat breeds, are average to large-sized cats. A Bengal cat's size when full grown can vary depending on which cats were originally part of their family line. While they may appear larger than they are because of their musculature, they don't get much bigger than other domestic cats.
Typical Bengal Cat Size & Weight
The Bengal cat falls in the middle of the size range compared to other cat breeds. They normally weigh from 8 to 15 pounds and stand 13 to 16 inches tall at their shoulders. Males are generally larger than females, with an average weight of 10 to 15 pounds, while the average weight for a female is 8 to 12 pounds.
At What Age Are Bengals Full-Grown?
Most Bengal cats reach their full height and weight around 1½ years of age. Some may take as long as two years to come into their full healthy height and weight.
Because of their wild heritage, Bengals are usually leaner and have more muscle than typical house cats. Coupled with their height, this means Bengals do not look like they are heavy set or stocky.
Size Chart by Age
You can predict or monitor their size based on the Bengal's life stage, along with their average weight, height, and length ranges.
| Life Stage | Weight | Height | Length |
| Kitten | 4 - 10 pounds | 6 - 12 inches | 7 - 11 inches |
| Young Adult (1 year) | 8 - 12 pounds | 10 - 14 inches | 10 - 14 inches |
| Adult (1½ to 2 years) | 8 - 15 pounds | 13 - 16 inches | 14 - 18 inches |
| Senior (14+ years) | 8 - 15 pounds | 13 - 16 inches | 14 - 18 inches |
Factors Contributing to Adult Size
The Asian Leopard cat, from which the first generations of Bengals were bred, is a small jungle cat weighing approximately 10 to 15 pounds. The size of the Asian Leopard cat helped to dictate the Bengal's final size. However, how big a Bengal cat can get depends on which cat was bred with the Asian Leopard cat.
Other breeds that were used in the Bengal breeding program include:
- Ocicat - Average weight 6 to 15 pounds
- Egyptian Mau - Average weight 7 to 11 pounds
- Abyssinian - Average weight 6 to 10 pounds
- Bombay - Average weight 6 to 11 pounds
- British Shorthair - Average weight 11 to 18 pounds
Your Bengal may be made up of a combination of an Asian Leopard cat, and any one - or several - of these other breeds. Therefore, it is possible that a Bengal with a lot of British Shorthair in their lineage may be larger than average, while a Bengal with a lot of Bombay in their lineage may be smaller. However, it is unlikely for a Bengal to vary too much out of the 8 to 15-pound range.
Bengal Size Compared to a House Cat
Bengal cats weigh about the same as a domestic house cat, but they're much taller. The average house cat is about 9 to 10 inches tall in comparison to a Bengal's height of 13 to 16 inches. Most domestic cats weigh an average of 10 pounds, which is similar to the Bengal's weight range of 8 to 15 pounds.
Is My Bengal Underweight?
Due to the cat's lean body structure, you might think it is actually too thin. As a general rule, you should be able to feel your cat's ribs but not see them. If your Bengal's ribs are visible or their backbone or hip bones feel knobby, they are likely underweight. If you suspect your cat is underweight, check their overall body condition, and plan a trip to the vet.
Is My Bengal Overweight?
Any cat can become overweight, including a Bengal. Consuming too many calories or having inadequate exercise can lead to obesity. You can tell if your Bengal is overweight by feeling their ribs. If you cannot feel their ribs or they have more than a thin layer of fat over their ribs, they are likely overweight. Excess weight can put your Bengal at risk for lifelong diseases. If your cat is getting a bit heavy, talk to your veterinarian about proper feeding guidelines.
Can Bengals Be Short?
Some Bengals may not reach the average height of 13 to 16 inches. However, there is a Bengal hybrid called the Genetta, which is intended to be a short Bengal. The Genetta is a cross between the Bengal and Munchkin. Their height can range from 4 to 12 inches.
Get to Know the Bengal Cat
The Bengal is a beautiful cat with a special temperament and a thick, soft coat. If you're looking for a medium to large cat, this special breed could be just right for you to raise in your home.
