Bengal Feeding Guide

Bengals are energetic, athletic, and intelligent cats with dietary needs that reflect their wild ancestry. At Black Gold Bengals, we believe nutrition is the foundation of a healthy, happy Bengal—and we feed our Bengals like the miniature leopards they are. Here's how to do it right

High Protein. Low Carbs. No Fillers.
Bengals thrive on a high-protein, meat-based diet. In the wild, a cat’s diet is composed almost entirely of animal protein and fat—never grains, soy, or artificial fillers. Aim to feed your Bengal a species-appropriate diet that honors their natural instincts.

A. Raw Diet (Our Top Choice)

• What it is: A biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diet made from raw meat, organs, and bone.
• Benefits: Shiny coat, clean teeth, smaller litter box waste, and optimal health.
• Tips: Use reputable commercial raw brands or make your own using balanced recipes. Include taurine, calcium, and organ meats.

• What to look for:
  
  • Real meat as the first ingredient
  • Grain-free, no by-products
  • At least 10% crude protein (ideally higher)
• Brands we like: Tiki Cat, Weruva, Ziwi Peak, Instinct, Nulo

• Use with caution: Dry food is often high in carbs and low in moisture. If needed:
  
  • Choose grain-free, high-protein formulas
  • Add water or bone broth to increase moisture
  • Feed as a supplement, not the main meal

Kittens (up to 12 months):

• Feed 3–4 times daily
   
• Unlimited access to food if possible (especially wet/raw)
   

Adults (12 months and up):

• Feed 2 meals per day
   
• Portion according to weight and activity level (average: 3–6 oz per meal)
   

Senior Bengals (10+ years):

• Keep protein high, but monitor kidney health
   
• Feed smaller, more frequent meals if needed

Cats naturally get most of their water from food. Bengals especially benefit from wet or raw diets to prevent dehydration and urinary tract issues. Always provide fresh, filtered water. A cat fountain is a great way to encourage drinking

• Healthy treats: Freeze-dried raw meat (chicken, salmon, turkey)
• Cooked chicken hearts, liver or gizzards
   
• Avoid: Dairy, sugar, grains, anything artificial
   
• Supplements (if feeding homemade raw):
   
• Taurine
   
• Omega-3s (fish oil or krill oil)
   
• Probiotics

Never feed Bengals:

• Onions, garlic
   
• Grapes or raisins
   
• Chocolate, caffeine
   
• Alcohol or cooked bones
   
• Dog food or highly processed foods

If switching from kibble to wet or raw:

1. Introduce gradually over 7–10 days.
    
2. Mix new food with current food, increasing the ratio each day.
    
3. Be patient—some Bengals are picky at first! You can try different flavors or brands to see what your kitty likes. Most pet stores will let you return cat food your cat didnt like for that exact reason.

Feeding your Bengal well is an investment in their long-term health, energy, and personality. At Black Gold Bengals, we raise our kittens on premium wet food and raw, and we encourage new families to continue this high standard of nutrition. Your Bengal is a work of art—feed them like one.