Bombay

Main Characteristics of the Bombay

The Bombay cat is a muscular powerhouse of love who can't wait to spend time with you. These mini panthers are striking in appearance, abundant in personality quirks, and ready for adventure. Also known as the "parlor" or "mini" panther, the Bombay is one of the most beautiful black kitties around.

Bombay Origin

The Bombay breed emerged from U.S. cat breeder and Kentucky resident Nikki Horner's efforts to breed a Burmese cat with an American Shorthair cat in 1958. The result was a a sleek, gorgeous black coated cat with stunning eyes of gold. Development of the breed with the addition of both British and American Shorthairs continued for many more years.

Bombay Personality Traits

Bombay cats are known for their deep loyalty and affection toward humans, even ones they don't know very well! They require a lot of attention, and prospective cat parents should know that don't do well being left alone for an extended period of time. The Bombay is an active and intelligent cat that enjoys games of fetch and other opportunities for play. They are vocal kitties (but not highly so) who make wonderful companions in households with children and other pets.

Bombay Common Health Issues

While there are no genetic health problems tightly associated with the Bombay, though they may be prone to obesity so proper nutrition and exercise are important. Their Burmese heritage may put them at risk for Burmese head defect (BHD), also known as congenital frontonasal dysplasia, which is characterized by improper development and subsequent malformation of the skull and facial features. Another inherited disorder associated with the Burmese (for which a Bombay can also be tested) is Burmese hypokalemia, a condition associated with weak skeletal muscles that may result in trouble walking or compromise ability to properly hold the head up.

Bombay Fun Facts

• The Bombay was granted official acceptance into the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1970, earning CFA championship status in 1976.

• Bombays are known to enjoy laps and leashes in equal measure! They're generally ready for a nice walk to explore the outdoors with you and once home, will make themselves cozy with you on the couch.

• Cat breeds similar to the Bombay include the Burmilla, Tonkinese, and of course the Burmese.

• They have a noticeable sway to their gait which is said to resemble that of the black leopards found in India.

• Their golden eyes are sometimes referred to as "copper pennies".

Bombay Cat Characteristics

Lifespan

12-17 years

Good with

Children, Dogs, Cats, Families

Shedding amount

Low

Playfulness

High

Affection level

High

Activity level

High

Tendency to vocalize

Medium

Exercise needs

High

References

The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) "About the Bombay"

The International Cat Association (TICA) Bombay Breed Introduction

FETCH by WebMD "What to Know About Bombay Cats"

VCA Animal Hospitals "Know Your Pet" Bombay Cat