Expert: Jessica - 3/16/2010

Question
QUESTION: What is the difference between a b3n foundation bengal and a sbt? Is either one better than the other?

ANSWER: Hi Sarah.  B3N and SBT are Tica registration codes.  To put it simply, the SBT is "purer" than the B3N.  SBT's, short for Studbook Traditions, are established purebreds.  Outcrossing (breeding to another breed) is not permitted in Bengals if they are to be considered SBT’s.  

B3N's are hybrids - they have two different breeds within the last 3 generations.  The N stands for non-permissible outcross, meaning the cat has a breed in his lineage that has made him unacceptable as an SBT.  This makes the cat ineligible for show.  The usual reason for hybrids that are Tica-registered is to form a new breed or color variation within the breed.  Later generations become eligible for SBT status.  This is probably why this cat is referred to as a “foundation” Bengal – it was intended to be the foundation for a new breed or color.

Most likely, the SBT and the B3N would make equally great pets, as long as both came from lines with good temperaments and received proper socialization as kittens.  However, only the SBT may be eligible for championship show if you are interested in the ring.  

Good luck!

Jessica




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QUESTION: If a B3N and an SBT bengal mate what would the kittens be considered?

ANSWER: The offspring of a B3N and an SBT would be CON's.  This means that they are the third generation within the breed but that there are non-permissible outcrosses within the last three generations.  If these babies were to be bred to SBT's, their offspring would be SBT's.

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QUESTION: I have a bengal female that is 10 months old and has not yet went into heat, should I be worried? I am a little worried already considering I have a 7 month female that already had her first heat cycle.

Answer
I wouldn't be too worried.  Kitties mature at all different ages, and there is a much broader range for females than there is for males.  Some females don't enter their first estrus until they pass a year old.  As we are now getting deeper into the spring and the days are lengthening, I suspect your older girl should go into heat sometime soon.

Also, just so you're on the look out, there is what's known as a "silent heat".  This is when females are fully receptive to males and are able to become pregnant, but they don't exhibit many of the outward signs of heat that we look for such as calling or rolling around on the ground.  This is a frustrating problem for breeders.  If you notice she seems to be raising her rear end in response to petting, this may be an indication she's in heat, even if no other signs are present.