What are the Most Common Illnesses in Bengal Cats?

According to The Zebra, around 25.4% of US residents own one or more cats. A small

percentage of these are Bengal cats, and it’s a breed that’s generally considered a healthy one, except for some hereditary and breed-related issues.

There are three illnesses that are most common in Bengal cats, and this article will explain each one. We've also included some of the other health issues that all breeds of cats may potentially deal with. These range from trivial to more serious ones, but fortunately, all of them can be prevented or treated at your local vet.

We’ll also provide you with signs that may point to each of these illnesses, so keep your eyes open and make sure your cat health insurance is up to date in case you need to make a quick stop at your veterinarian.

1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM is arguably the most common heart disease in Bengal cats. It causes the thickening of your cat’s heart muscles and may lead to heart failure if it isn’t treated. Signs to look out for include:

• Lethargy or reluctance to play

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Coughing or wheezing

• Loss of appetite

• Sudden hind-leg weakness or paralysis

2. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a purely genetic condition. It affects your cat’s eyes and may lead to loss of their vision and even full or partial blindness. Look out for these signs and take your Bengal cat to the vet if you notice any of them:

• Difficulty seeing in low light (night blindness)

• Bumping into objects

• Dilated pupils

• Reluctance to jump or climb

3. Erythrocyte Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK-def)

Also known as PK-Deficiency, this condition is a hereditary disorder that leads to anemia, which can be fatal if not treated by your vet. It’s a lack of a vital enzyme in your Bengal cat that’s necessary for the health of their red blood cells. Signs your cat may have this disorder will include knowing their family history, but you can also look out for:

• Pale gums

• Lethargy and weakness

• Decreased appetite

• Sudden weight loss

Other Cat Health Issues

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a kneecap condition in Bengal cats. The kneecap being dislocated from its proper alignment could eventually lead to permanent limping and even arthritis. If your cat shows any of these signs, take them to your local veterinarian:

• Limping or skipping steps

• Difficulty jumping

• Sudden leg stiffness or awkward movement

• Pain or sensitivity when the leg is touched

Obesity

Bengals are known to be very active cats, but they do love eating–a lot! If you manage their diet well, overeating shouldn’t be an issue. Sometimes, when they aren’t running around outside a lot, they can gain weight, and this can lead to diabetes or obesity. You should also manage their weight to avoid strain on their joints. If you notice these signs, ask your vet about dietary options and make the right changes:

• Reduced activity or difficulty jumping

• Ribs are not easily felt when touching the sides

• Excess belly fat or sagging skin

Hip Dysplasia

Though more common in larger cat breeds, your Bengal cat may inherit a condition called hip dysplasia. It takes time to reach severe levels, but hip dysplasia can have a debilitating effect on your cat if left untreated. These are possible signs they will show if they have this condition:

• Difficulty standing up or walking

• Limping or favoring one leg

• Avoiding normal activities like running or jumping

• Signs of pain when touching the hip area

Feline Infectious Peritonitis

FIP is a less common viral infection in Bengal cats caused by the mutation of feline coronavirus. Even though it’s rarer now, it has led to the deaths of some cats in the US, but it can be treated if caught in time. Here are some signs to look out for:

• A severe fever that doesn’t heal when antibiotics are given

• Loss of appetite and sudden weight loss

• Swollen belly from fluid in the abdomen

• Breathing difficulties

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Bengal cats are known for their sensitive stomachs, and this sometimes causes a number of issues that aren’t necessarily illnesses. But now and then, their sensitive stomachs can cause chronic diarrhea, which is sometimes linked to a particular food allergy or an intolerance to dairy, meat, or starch. If your Bengal cat shows any of these signs, get them to the vet and have them checked out:

• Chronic diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Weight loss, even though they still eat normally

• Flatulence

• A bloated stomach

• Excessive litter box use

Dental Diseases

Gingivitis and periodontal disease are common in all cats, and Bengals are no exception. If your cat’s teeth are properly maintained by a professional, this shouldn’t become a problem. But if you do notice the following, ask your veterinarian for advice:

• Bad breath

• Red or swollen gums

• Drooling

• Difficulty eating

• Constant pawing at their mouth

Wrapping Up

Bengal cats are amazing pets, and they have a very distinct look, too. Make sure you care for them well and visit a vet that’s familiar with this breed and the illnesses that may strike this breed.