Bombay

Quick Facts

• • Weight: 6 – 11 pounds

The Look of a Bombay

Bombays are known for their short, sleek coats that come only in black. Their eyes are gold to copper in color. This medium-sized, muscular cat also has black nose leather and paw pads.

Traits

• • • Panther-like appearance
    • Very social
    • Active and playful
    • Closely related to Burmese
    • Nicknamed the “Parlor Panther”

Ideal Human Companion

• • • Families with children
    • First-time cat owners
    • Multiple pet households
    • Singles with other pets

What They Are Like to Live With

Bombays are happy, friendly cats who love to play and interact with humans and other pets. Many can be trained to go outside on a leash, and like to play fetch with a small ball, catnip toy or crumpled up piece of paper.

Although they tend to be busy cats, they also enjoy cuddling up and are intelligent and affectionate. They like strangers and children.

Things You Should Know

Bombays are social cats and like a lot of attention.

They are sometimes mistaken for Burmese.

Bombays are active cats and need plenty of stimulation.

Bombay History

The Bombay was first developed in the 1950s by a Louisiana breeder named Nikki Horner. She aimed to create a breed that resembled a small panther, and used certain American Shorthairs and Burmese to obtain an all-black, copper-eyed cat.

In 1976, The Cat Fanciers Association granted Championship status to the Bombay. The International Cat Association considers the Bombay part of the Burmese group. The breed is also recognized by the American Cat Fanciers Association. All three registries allow the crossbreeding of Burmese and Bombay.