The Bombay cat is a breed mix of the Burmese and the Black American Shorthair cat. The cross produced a mostly Burmese type cat, but with a sleek black coat, resembling a panther.
The Bombay is a calm cat but with a high energy level. This cat breed adapts well to quiet homes where she is the center of attention. In addition, he gets along well with children and other pets.
BOMBAY CAT BREED PROFILE

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BOMBAY CAT BREED SUMMARY
- Country of Origin: United States
- Weight: Male: 8 to 11 pounds. Female: 6 to 9 pounds.
- Height: 9 to 13 inches.
- Coat: Short, medium, long.
- Color: Deep, black coat, but sometimes a litter produces a sable-colored kitten.
- Patterns: Solid
- Tendency to shed: Low-Seasonal
- Lifespan: 9 to 13 years
- Attention Needs: Moderate
- Grooming needs: Requires grooming once a week
- Temperament: Friendly and affectionate
- Grooming Needs: Requires grooming once a week
- Activity Level: High
- Intelligence: High
- Playfulness: Very playful
- Vocalization: Slightly chatty cat

BOMBAY CAT APPEARANCE
This cat breed is muscular, with heavy bones. Its texture is robust and somewhat compact. The Bombay has the head and ear tips round. Her eyes, chin, and even her legs are round.
The Bombay’s coat can be short, medium, or long and is shiny. A well-groomed fur has a deep black sheen that looks like patent leather.
BREED PERSONALITY
The Bombay cat’s personality closely resembles the Burmese cat. Bombay is social, intelligent, and affectionate.
The Bombay is a lovely cat, although it is also a naughty cat.
They are outgoing, intelligent, and friendly cats that get along well with their family, friends, and other pets.
FEATURES
- Great family cat
- Active
- Curious
- Social, affectionate, and dependent cat
- Climber and jumper (Bombay needs cat trees and perches)
- Great cat for first owners
- Affectionate toward its owners
- Can be left alone all day
HISTORY
In 1958, the cat breeder Nikki Horner from Kentucky attempted to create a cat breed similar to a miniature black panther. She failed the first time, but she was successful in 1970.
Cat Fanciers’ Association recognized and registered the Bombay cat in 1970.
HEALTH
The Bombay cat breed is a relatively healthy breed with no significant genetic health issues.
Because the Bombay cat has a round face, it can be prone to nasal problems such as sinusitis and asthma.
In addition, the breed tends to gain weight if its owners do not control its food intake.
The Veterinarians recommend giving a portion of food rather than leaving the food in a dish and allowing the cat to free-feed.
There are other conditions you should be aware of:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Excessive tearing of the eyes.
BOMBAY CAT CARE AND GROOMING
Although the Bombay cat grooms itself, they need a brush once a week. If your cat has oily fur, it is a sign that it is not grooming itself and could indicate health problems.
DIET
- Bengals need high-quality cat food to maintain their healthy weight.
- Most Bengal cat owners feed their cats with both dry and wet food. Dry food reduces tartar on teeth, and wet food encourages water intake.
EXERCISE REQUIREMENT
The Bombay is a very active cat who likes fresh air and outdoor time with its owners.
These cats are very agile climbers and jumpers, so it’s a good idea to have several climbing towers.
CURIOUS FACTS ABOUT BOMBAY CAT
- Bombay is the name of black cats.
- Black Mamba is another way to call Bombay cats.
- Another nickname for Bombay cats is mini-panther.
References:
- Bombay Cat. Wikipedia
- Hill’s Pet
- Purina