Cashmere is the name being used for the longhair variety of the Bengal cat, a recognized domestic breed known for their captivating appearance and endearing personalities. Early in Abyssinians, Burmese, Siamese, Maus, and even Himalayans were used to cross with the forest dwelling Asian Leopard cat to produce the first generation (F1). As a result, there have been longhair kittens born from short hair parents since the beginning. However, since the goal has always been to develop a domestic cat with the exotic look of the leopard, breeders have worked on developing a short, tight pelt, and selectively bred away from the longhair trait. Until recently, breeders were shocked, and even embarrassed to see a longhair kitten pop up in one of their litters! Some even thought that the longhair Bengal kitten was a mixed cat. truth is, they are pure Bengal cats, just like their short hair the rare, and certainly something to be cherished and adored!

A number of Bengal breeders in the USA, England and Germany are working to develop the "non standard" longhair variety, and they are currently being shown in the New Breed, New Trait, and Household Pet divisions at cat shows around the world. We are so very proud to be part of the development of the Cashmere.