Bengal vs Persian
Discover the differences between Bengal and Persian to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Bengal
Luxurious long fur and a calm, affectionate nature make this breed a favorite for quiet households. Persian cats thrive as gentle, loving companions who enjoy serene environments.

Persian
Luxurious long fur, expressive eyes, and a calm presence define this affectionate breed. Persian cats thrive as gentle companions, bringing quiet elegance to any home.
Quick comparison
Medium
3.5–6.0 kg
Longhaired, dense undercoat
12–17 years
3.0–5.0 kg
Low activity needs
Medium
3.5–6.0 kg
Longhaired, dense undercoat
12–17 years
3.0–5.5 kg
Low activity needs
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Bengal
Gentle and affectionate with familiar people
Learns basic routines and household habits
Prefers calm, quiet environments and routines
Occasionally playful, but not very active
Manages moderate changes with minimal stress
Persian
Affectionate and gentle with family members
Learns routines but not highly problem-solving
Prefers lounging over being active
Enjoys quiet play, not very lively
Adjusts to change but prefers stability
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Bengal
Polycystic kidney disease, brachycephalic airway syndrome
Persian
Polycystic kidney disease, respiratory issues
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Bengal
Good option
Persians are gentle and easygoing but require regular grooming and care
Excellent fit
Quiet, low-activity breed thrives in smaller, calm living spaces
Not ideal
Persians prefer tranquility and may not enjoy a busy, active household
Tolerant companion
Generally patient but may be stressed by rough handling from young children
Can adapt
Persians often coexist well with other calm pets when properly introduced
Poor fit
They dislike being left alone for long periods and may become lonely or anxious
Persian
Good choice
Their gentle temperament suits new owners but grooming needs require extra commitment
Excellent fit
Low activity level and quiet nature are well-suited for small living spaces
Not ideal
They prefer calm environments and may be stressed by frequent noise or activity
Generally suitable
Patient and tolerant, but supervision with very young children is recommended
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if properly introduced and socialized
Poor choice
Persians dislike being left alone and may develop stress or behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Bengal
- Gentle and calm temperament
- Affectionate with family members
- Adapts well to indoor living
- Low prey drive and minimal hunting instinct
- Generally tolerant of other pets
Persian
- Gentle and calm temperament
- Affectionate with family members
- Adapts well to indoor living
- Low prey drive and minimal hunting
- Quiet and rarely vocalizes
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Bengal
- Requires daily grooming for coat maintenance
- Prone to respiratory health issues
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- Eyes need regular cleaning to prevent staining
- Susceptible to polycystic kidney disease
Persian
- Requires daily grooming and brushing
- Prone to respiratory health issues
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- Regular eye cleaning often necessary
- Can be less playful than other breeds
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience