I just felt compelled to write about how much I love our little
Bengal, Louis Scratchmo Armstrong.

He is a handful. He requires a ton of playtime, is neurotic, and has a
howl that would make a siamese tuck its tail in shame. I was down the
block, and heard his yowl echoing off of all the neighborhood homes as
he called for me.

When he first grew up, we were worried that he'd never be a cuddler.
He was just too energetic and ornery.

Now at around 3 years old, he's adapted to living with humans. As I'm
typing this in bed, he's kneaded the covers next to me, and drooled in
ecstasy as I scratched his head and patted his neck. Now he's curled
under my armpit and settling down for sleep.

For those attracted to this breed, I'd strongly suggest you google
this group for Bengal characteristics. Louis is not a little, cuddly
housecat. He shows his wild heritage in unexpected ingenuity, vast
energy, and a seeming ignorance of what moggies know instinctively
(don't eat screws or rocks, pee in your box, don't jump on the stove
with an open flame, etc).

We bought him because our high-energy Tiger (Maine-Coon-Like moggie)
lost his last companion, and needed someone to play with. Louis has
filled that role admirably, but even Tiger can't keep him occupied.

The upside is that Louis is a wonderful kitty, and you really get the
sense that you're living with a barely domesticated wild animal. He
walks differently from other cats. He needs to be up high, and is
incredibly athletic in his search for a high perch. But there's enough
domesticism in him that he will now cuddle, parade proudly around the
house with his tail held high, and play earnestly.

Don't buy a Bengal if you want a happy housecat who can live at home
while you're at work. Expect to manage them like a high-energy dog (my
common comparison is to a Dalmation or a Jack Russel Terrier). If you
can do this, though, the rewards are immense. I love our little Louis.

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