Bengal Vet Costs: What You'll Actually Pay
$430 to $1,100 per year at the vet. Over a 14-year lifespan, that's $6,800 to $16,500 total. 2-3 visits/year average.
Annual Vet Cost Breakdown
Where your Bengal vet budget actually goes.
Bengal Health Issues: What to Watch For
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-b)
8-12% of breedBengals carry a specific PRA mutation. DNA test available. Blindness progresses slowly.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
10-15% of breedLess common than in Maine Coons or Ragdolls but still present. Cardiac screening recommended.
Tritrichomonas foetus
10-20% of breedIntestinal parasite causing chronic diarrhea. More common in Bengals. Treatable with ronidazole.
Flat-chested kitten syndrome
1-5% of breedDeformity in kittens causing breathing difficulty. Many resolve naturally; severe cases require intervention.
Recommended Procedures & Screenings
| Procedure | Frequency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| PRA-b DNA test | Once | $50-$100 |
| Cardiac ultrasound | Every 2 years after age 4 | $250-$500 |
| Fecal PCR test | As needed for GI issues | $80-$200 |
| Wellness exam + vaccines | Annual | $120-$270 |
The Bottom Line on Bengal Vet Bills
Bengals are athletic, wild-looking cats with a moderate health profile. The PRA-b DNA test is cheap insurance for any Bengal owner. GI issues (often parasite-related) are the most common day-to-day vet expense.