At Bougie Bengals, the health of our cats is never left to chance. Responsible breeding begins with thorough genetic testing, ongoing health monitoring, and informed pairing decisions.

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Our goal is to do everything possible to support the long-term health of our kittens and provide peace of mind for the families who welcome them into their homes.

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Why Health Testing Matters

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Genetics play a major role in a cat’s overall health. By testing our breeding cats, we can:

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• Identify potential inherited risks
• Avoid breeding affected or incompatible pairs
• Reduce the chance of genetic disease
• Protect future generations
• Support healthier, longer lives

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Health testing allows us to make responsible, ethical decisions for the well-being of our cats and kittens.

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Genetic Testing with Wisdom Panel – Optimal Selection

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We use Wisdom Panel Optimal Selection Genetic Health Testing for our breeding cats. This comprehensive test screens for a wide range of genetic conditions, including those known to affect Bengal cats.

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This testing helps us understand:

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• Genetic disease risk
• Carrier status
• Breed-specific conditions
• Inherited health concerns

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We use these results to carefully plan our breeding program and avoid passing on preventable genetic disorders whenever possible.

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Bengal-Specific Genetic Conditions We Screen For

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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-b)

PRA-b is an inherited eye disease that causes gradual vision loss, eventually leading to blindness. It affects the retina and can begin showing signs in young adulthood.

Cats with PRA-b may initially struggle with night vision, followed by worsening eyesight over time.

Through genetic testing, we ensure our breeding cats are not affected by PRA-b and avoid producing kittens at risk for this condition.

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Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK Deficiency)

PK Deficiency is a genetic blood disorder that causes chronic anemia. Affected cats may experience:

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• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Pale gums
• Reduced oxygen circulation
• Poor overall vitality

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This condition can significantly impact a cat’s quality of life. Genetic testing allows us to identify carriers and avoid producing affected kittens.

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Heart Health Screening for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

 

Bengals can be predisposed to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a serious heart condition that causes thickening of the heart muscle.

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We work with a board-certified veterinary cardiologist to regularly screen our breeding cats. These evaluations allow us to:

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• Monitor heart structure and function
• Detect early changes
• Make responsible breeding decisions
• Protect future generations

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Regular heart screenings are a vital part of our health program.

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Transparency & Access to Health Results

We believe in full transparency with our families.

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You can click here to view the current health testing results for each of our breeding cats on our Kings and Queens page, including:

• Genetic testing summaries
• Heart screening results

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This allows families to make informed, confident decisions.

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How Health Testing Benefits Our Kitten Families

Health testing helps us:

• Reduce the risk of inherited disease
• Support stronger immune systems
• Promote long-term health
• Provide peace of mind
• Build trust through transparency

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While no breeder can guarantee perfect health, we are committed to doing everything possible to support healthy, thriving kittens.

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Our Health Guarantee

We stand behind our program with an Extensive Health Guarantee, including coverage for:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
• Congenital (birth) defects

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This guarantee reflects our confidence in our breeding practices and our commitment to long-term responsibility.

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Our Promise

When you choose Bougie Bengals, you are choosing a program that values:

• Health
• Ethics
• Education
• Transparency
• Long-term wellness
• Responsible breeding

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We don’t cut corners.
We don’t rush decisions.
We put our cats first.