Did You Know?
The Bombay looks like the Burmese with longer and larger body.
Size
Medium in size. Can weigh from 6 to 11 lbs.
Coat
Short and velvety.
Color
Black
Life Span
12 to 16 years.
Bombay Physical Characteristics
Bombays are best known for their dramatic black coat. This cat breed looks like the Burmese but with a larger and longer body. The Bombay cat has longer legs compared to the Burmese, too. They are medium in size.
The head of this breed is round. Their muzzle is shorter than most cats. His ears are medium in size and are wide apart. These cats have beautiful eyes that may range in color from gold to copper. Their tail is straight and medium in length. The Bombay cat’s black coat is short and fine. It also has a satiny feel and has a sheen like that of a patent leather.
While the black coat is the dominant trait for this breed, sable-colored Bombay kittens may be born in a purebred litter. But only a few associations permit these kittens to be registered, not as Bombay kittens but as Burmese.
Bombay Personality and Temperament
The Bombay is a sweet and lively feline. This breed loves people, and they can adapt to different environments and lifestyles. The Bombays are calm cats, so they do well in an apartment setting. They are tolerant towards other pets but prefer to be the top cat.
The breed loves comfort, and he will sure find the warmest and softest spot in the house. Most Bombays will vocally respond to their owners but not on loud voice.
Surprisingly, like dogs, Bombay cats do well in games of fetch. Some can even be walked on a leash. They are always curious and very smart. This cat is best suited for a family that is willing and patient enough to help him learn tricks. This cat also loves Interactive toys. The Bombay likes to be the center of attention.
Bombay Health and Care
No matter what breed, all cats have the potential to contract and develop diseases. These cats are generally healthy, but some health problems are found to be common in this breed including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Because of the breed’s short muzzle, excessive eye tearing and breathing difficulties are also common.
Bombay History and Background
Some cat breeds are created to look like mini versions of wild cats. In the Bombay’s case, he is what we can call a mini panther.
The creation of the breed is mostly credited to Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky, who crossed sable-colored Burmese cats with black American Shorthair cats in the late 1950s. Horne’s goal is to create a sleek, shiny, and muscular black cat – but with a gentle and friendly temperament. Cat breeders in Britain were also successful in achieving the same look and personality by crossing the Burmese with black domestic shorthairs.
The Cat Fanciers Association has fully recognized the Bombay since 1978.
