Hi,
I returned home from holiday on Sunday to find that my boyfriend had adopted an approx. 11mth old bengal cat named Mia (see attached photos)! We had spoken about getting one in the past, but I hadn't done my research yet, so I wasn't ready, but now I have her, I love her! BUT I am a bit overwhelmed with questions! I am trying to do research online, but I have some questions that I am hoping some of you experienced owners could help me with:
1. She was previously let out by her previous owner. I am so scared to let her out, but she definitely seems to miss the outdoors. Do any of you let your cats outside? If so, how did you go about first introducing her to the outside world? We have a cat lead that we want to take her into the garden with to familiarise herself.
2. As a lot of you are aware, she is very needy and loves affection. I feel terrible when I leave for work in the morning. We are gone for about 8hrs weekdays. Do you think she will be OK? I hope that she sleeps as she is very energetic when we get home.
3. Where does your cat sleep at night? We have been keeping her downstairs (fairly big space) and she seems to sleep on the sofa. She was previously allowed on her owners bed, but I am a light sleeper, so I am unsure about this yet, plus she jumps everywhere in our room and knocks everything over! I know cats can see better than humans in the dark, but I feel mean turning all the lights off at night, and I leave her with a lamp. Is this necessary?
4. Mia doesn't seem to drink much water (from her bowel or from the tap) which worries me. Does anyone else have this problem? She will drink cat milk thankfully, but not loads.
5. How much food is best to feed her? She has a bowel of dry food which she mostly eats when she has no wet food left - just grazes on it and never finishes a bowel a day. In terms of wet food, how many pouches is ideal for a bengal cat (although might differ per cat?)
I would appreciate any advise on the above questions and any general advice when first owning a bengal cat! Thank you soooo much!!