The Bengal was developed in the States by crossing the forest dwelling Asian Leopard cats, (Felis Bengalensis) to domestic cats resulting in a medium to large breed that resembles in miniature the mesmerising, exotic looks, and attraction of the wild's big cats. Available in Spotted and Marble patterns and in both of the Brown and Snow colours, the short, close lying coat often referred to as a pelt is dense, luxurious, silky to the touch and is often glittered - a look of sprinkled gold dust which is a feature unique to the breed. They require minimal grooming. Body colours range from sandy/buff to orange with preferably dark spots/rosettes or marbling in the browns, and from white to ivory/buff with light brown to charcoal spots/rosettes or marbling in the snows. Active, quick and agile, they are intelligent and speak with a soft gravely voice.