The Bengal is the cat breed known for a distinctive coat pattern called the marbled tabby.
Bengal coats may show spotted or marbled patterns. The marbled pattern consists of broad, flowing bands and swirls rather than separate round or rosette-like spots. This appearance is one of the breed’s most recognizable features and reflects the breed’s goal of producing a domestic cat with a wild-looking coat.
Bengals were developed from domestic cats and Asian leopard cat ancestry. Jean Mill played a major role in establishing the modern breed, and the name Bengal refers to the scientific name of the Asian leopard cat, Prionailurus bengalensis.
The marbled Bengal should not be confused with the Toyger, whose breeders selected a striped pattern inspired by a tiger. Egyptian Maus have naturally spotted coats, while Ocicats were bred to look wild but do not have wild-cat ancestry.