Many new cat owners may think on the question of allowing their new addition to their family outdoors. Although it is beneficial to be able to allow your Bengal fresh air, sunshine, and a chance to hear the sounds of nature, it is not without its risks should they be allowed to free roam. I personally do not condone any Bengal to be allowed to free roam. If safety measures are in place and a means of containment such as a Catio, or enclosed play area this will keep your Bengal safe and also allow them to to be secure and enjoy the outdoors. Another means of safely allowing your Bengal outside is to harness train them at an early age. I personally recommend a Bengal “walking jacket” which I feel is more secure than a regular harness.  It is not uncommon if you choose to harness train that in the beginning for your kitten to try to wriggle free from what you put on them.  Until they get more use to wearing it over time which is why I feel the design of a walking jacket is much more secure during this initial training. 

For those who still consider allowing their new kitties to free roam, I would like to give you a few things to think about and ponder that will hopefully give you pause in doing so and I will go over the risks here. Not only is your Bengal exposed to many larger outdoor predators which may view your kitty as a free meal, but they do not have the home field advantage in knowing the terrain, as well as the outdoor predators do. Escape routes or places to hide from being chased may become elusive for your kitty. And without knowing where to go there can be fatal risks.  They also are also exposed to the elements, and mother natures wrath should your kitty roam far and not find its way back.

 It also should be noted that Bengal cats statistically are one of the top pure bred breeds to be stolen outdoors.  Because of their stunning markings and colors, and friendly nature they just may march right up to the first human that pulls their car over after spotting them and with hearing simply “Here kitty kitty” hop right in the vehicle and become someone else’s new pet. 

Free roaming can also be detrimental for health risks. Should your kitty wind up going toe to toe with the neighborhood stray there are many feline diseases that can be contracted should a territorial fight ensue, along with physical harm coming to your pet.  Finally another reason to keep your kitty contained or harnessed is to protect the smaller wildlife such as birds, rabbits, squirrels, or other smaller animals that could become victim to your free roaming cat. It is only part of their dna to want to stalk, chase, and possible harm them should they spot these smaller animals outdoors. 

Please keep your Bengal safe by having a containment/play area or harness train them. Never allow your kitty to free roam. It is much too dangerous to take this risk. Protect your beloved family member and keep them indoors if you do not have a containment area. There are plenty of window perches or window boxes that can be purchased online for your cat to enjoy the fresh air if you do not have a catio or play area. Protect your pet in keeping them safe by following these suggestions, that is the best way you can express your love for them.

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