Compare breeds
Abyssinian vs Bengal
Abyssinian
Short
Bengal
Short
Choose the Abyssinian if you want…
- a home with other pets
- a flat or small home
- a quieter companion
Choose the Bengal if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Side by side
| Trait | Abyssinian | Bengal |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 3–5 kg (7–11 lb) | 3.5–7 kg (8–15 lb) |
| Height | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) | 33–41 cm (13–16 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 12–16 years |
| Origin | Ethiopia / Southeast Asia | United States |
| Energy | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Shedding | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 4/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Abyssinian or the Bengal?
The Bengal — typically about 1.3 times the weight. Abyssinian: 3–5 kg (7–11 lb); Bengal: 3.5–7 kg (8–15 lb).
Which lives longer, the Abyssinian or the Bengal?
Their typical life spans are about the same. Abyssinian: 12–15 years; Bengal: 12–16 years.
Is the Abyssinian or the Bengal better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts