​Cats are intelligent, instinct-driven animals who need more than just food and shelter to thrive. Proper enrichment supports their physical health, mental stimulation, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

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At Bougie Bengals, we believe that a thoughtfully designed environment helps cats express natural behaviors in healthy ways, especially high energy breeds like Bengals.

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Bengals & Active Lifestyles

Bengals are known for their athleticism, curiosity, and high energy levels. Without appropriate outlets, their natural drive can turn into frustration or over stimulation.

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Enrichment provides Bengals with:

• Physical exercise
• Mental stimulation
• Stress relief
• Confidence
• Healthy outlets for instinctual behavior

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When their needs are met, Bengals become calmer, more balanced companions.

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The Importance of Vertical Space

Cats naturally feel safest when they can observe their environment from above. Elevated spaces give them a sense of control, security, and confidence.

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We recommend placing tall, sturdy cat trees in areas where your family spends the most time. This allows your cat to stay close to daily activity while still feeling safe. Because Bengals play rough and climb energetically, stability is especially important. A solid, well-built tree helps them feel secure while jumping, wrestling, and exploring.

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In addition to cat trees, wall-mounted shelving can be used to create a “cat highway” throughout the home.

 

These elevated pathways support:

• Natural climbing behavior
• Confidence and exploration
• Mental stimulation
• Stress reduction
• Safe observation

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Vertical space allows cats to move freely, feel confident, and engage with their environment in healthy ways.

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Scent Soakers & Natural Scent Behavior

Cats use scent to communicate and feel secure, and to have their own familiar scent around the home.

They have scent glands on their:

• Cheeks
• Chin
• Forehead
• Paws and Nails
• Tail base

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When a cat rubs, scratches, or brushes against objects, they are leaving their scent to create a familiar, comforting environment. Providing scent soakers throughout the home allows cats to mark appropriate items instead of targeting furniture or walls.

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Scent soakers can include:

• Cat trees
• Single scratching posts
• Cardboard scratchers
• Sisal or rope scratchers
• Natural fiber scratchers
• Wall-mounted cat shelves
• Plush cat beds
• Cat tunnels
• Fabric cat cubes
• Window perches
• Cat mats or rugs

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These items allow cats to:

• Rub their facial scent glands
• Scratch and stretch
• Familar scent
• Release stress
• Feel secure

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When cats have access to proper scent outlets, they are far less likely to scratch inappropriate surfaces like couches or door frames.

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Play is considered mock hunting. To humans, play is an energy outlet, but to cats, play is practice for hunting. Every chase, pounce, and leap helps satisfy a cat’s natural hunting instincts. Regular interactive play supports:

• Mental stimulation
• Physical fitness
• Emotional balance
• Confidence
• Strong family bonding

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Daily play sessions help release energy, reduce stress, and strengthen your relationship with your cat. It's also important to encourage playing on their own with toys so they won't solely rely on your play interactions.

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Naturally Sourced Toys

As a natural rearing program, we prioritize natural, enrichment-based toys that engage a cat’s senses and instincts. These encourage healthy play without over stimulation.

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We love toys made with:

• Silvervine
• Catnip
• Feathers
• Natural fibers
• Realistic textures

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The Value of Natural Chews

Chewing is another important part of a cat’s natural behavior.

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We encourage safe, species-appropriate chews such as:

• Freeze-dried necks
• Freeze-dried trachea
• Rabbit feet and paws
• Whole prey chicks

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These provide:

• Mental enrichment
• Jaw exercise
• Natural stress relief
• Instinct satisfaction

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Preventing Enrichment-Related Behavior Issues

Many common issues- such as destructive scratching, excessive energy, or frustration, stem from unmet enrichment needs.

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Providing proper outlets for:

• Climbing
• Scratching
• Scent marking
• Hunting-style play
• Exploration

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This helps prevent behavioral challenges before they start.

A well-enriched home supports calmer, more balanced cats.

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Our Natural Rearing Approach

As a natural rearing breeder, we believe in honoring a cat’s instincts through:

• Enrichment-based environments
• Natural toys and chews
• Respect for feline behavior
• Consistent engagement
• Thoughtful home setup

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Our goal is to raise cats who feel confident, fulfilled, and emotionally balanced in their homes.