A Spotted Kitten Put On a Lion's Mane and Surveyed the Backyard
A spotted brown Bengal kitten sits in the grass with a shaggy golden mane wrapped around her face, looking every bit like a tiny jungle king. Her ears peek out from the fuzz, and her eyes are turned off to the left as if she has spotted something moving past the fence. Fall leaves are scattered across the lawn, a small pumpkin glows in the yard, and a wooden fence and neighbor's house stand behind.
Bengals are an energetic, athletic breed, developed from domestic cats crossed with wild Asian leopard cats, and their coats show bold spots and a golden shimmer. They're smart, curious, and need plenty to do, including climbing, puzzle toys, and active play with their people. A bored Bengal can be creative in ways owners don't enjoy, so a tall cat tree and a few daily play sessions go a long way.
A costume is a lot to ask of such an active cat, so it's best to keep it short and watch for signs of stress. A mane that sits loosely, and a kitten that moves normally while wearing it, are good signs. This one looks surprisingly calm, perhaps because she feels like a real lion. The yard is her savanna, the leaves are her tall grass, and the whole neighborhood can hear her small, confident chirp as she takes a stroll.
