Cat Breed Guide NZ
Cashmere (Longhaired Bengal)
The Cashmere is the rare, long-haired version of the Bengal cat, displaying the same striking wild-leopard patterns but with a silky, ultra-soft coat resembling cashmere wool.
Photo Gallery
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Breed Snapshot
- Size
- medium-large
- Lifespan
- 12-16 years
- Origin
- United States / New Zealand established
- Temperament
- Highly active, intelligent, playful; needs lots of stimulation; similar to Bengal in energy and personality
- NZ Price
- NZD $1,500–$3,500 from registered Bengal/Cashmere breeders
- Annual Vet Cost
- Being enriched
Personality Scores
NZ Lifestyle Fit
Cashmere (Longhaired Bengal) is being reviewed for apartment, section, and rural Kiwi lifestyles. Use the snapshot and care notes while the NZ suitability profile is completed.
Overview
The Cashmere is the long-haired variant of the Bengal cat. It is not a separate breed by hybridisation, but rather the result of a recessive long-hair gene naturally present in some Bengal lines. Recognized as a distinct breed by the New Zealand Cat Fancy (NZCF), the Cashmere showcases the stunning wild rosettes, spots, and marble patterns of the Bengal, but wrapped in a semi-long, incredibly silky, and soft coat that feels like cashmere wool.
NZ ownership fit
Like their shorthaired Bengal relatives, Cashmere cats are extremely high-energy, highly intelligent, and active. They require an owner who can commit to providing significant mental and physical stimulation, including high climbing trees, puzzle toys, and secure outdoor enclosures or catio access.
Care priorities
Despite being long-haired, the Cashmere’s coat is silky and single-layered, meaning it is far less prone to matting than a Persian's and only needs brushing once or twice a week. Their high-energy level requires active play sessions daily. Owners must ensure their enclosure is entirely secure, as Cashmeres are athletic climbers and escape artists.
Fun Facts
Fact 1
Cashmere (Longhaired Bengal) facts are being enriched with NZ-specific editorial review.
Fact 2
Check back as the PetMall breed library expands.
Fact 3
The care profile above is kept current for Kiwi pet owners.
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