Bombay Cat

Breed Overview

Introduction

The Bombay cat is a medium-sized breed known for its striking all-black appearance and bright golden eyes. Bred to resemble a miniature black panther, this sleek feline has a short, lustrous coat and a muscular build.

Despite its wild look, the Bombay is famous for being one of the most friendly and affectionate cat breeds; it thrives on human companionship and often follows its owners around like a devoted shadow.

Bombays are intelligent and moderately active, making them playful companions that enjoy interactive games. They tend to “talk” with clear, often quiet meows, and can be very people-oriented, reveling in warm sunny spots or cozy laps in the home.

Breed History

The Bombay was first developed in the United States by breeder Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky. Beginning in the late 1950s, Horner set out to create a “miniature black panther” by crossing a sable Burmese with a jet-black American Shorthair.

This deliberate breeding produced a short-haired cat with a shiny black coat and coppery-gold eyes. Horner named the breed “Bombay” after the Indian city (now Mumbai) because of the exotic black leopard found there.

The breed gradually gained recognition; the Cat Fanciers’ Association accepted the Bombay for championship status in the 1970s (CFA in 1976) (The International Cat Association followed in 1979).

From those early founding cats, Bombay lines were later bred mostly by outcrossing to sable Burmese to maintain the rich black coat.

Today, Bombays remain a relatively rare pedigree cat, cherished by hobbyists for their unique look and affectionate nature.

Physical Characteristics

Bombay cats are medium-sized and well-muscled, giving them a sturdy yet agile appearance. They typically weigh around 6–15 pounds (females smaller, males larger).

They have a medium-long body and a straight, medium-length tail. The head is rounded with a short, broad muzzle and wide-set, rounded ears.

Their eyes are large, round, and always a vivid golden to copper color (green-eyed kittens are not accepted in the breed standard).

The Bombay’s coat is its most distinctive feature. It is short, close-lying and silky, with a lustrous “patent leather” shine. The fur is uniformly black down to the skin – even the nose leather, whisker pads and paw pads are jet-black, a trait that accentuates the panther-like look.

Kittens may sometimes show faint tabby striping at birth, but these markings usually fade as they mature.

The overall impression of a Bombay is of a sleek, glossy-coated cat with muscular shoulders and a graceful, athletic build.

Behavior and Personality

Bombay cats are exceptionally people-oriented and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their human families and often want to be involved in whatever people are doing.

Owners describe them as “Velcro cats” that greet you at the door, sit on laps, and snuggle up at bedtime. As one source notes, Bombays love cuddling and become very attached to their owners, insisting on constant attention.

They generally enjoy the company of children and other pets; because of their gentle, playful nature, they often fit well in families. In fact, Bombays get along with dogs and other cats when introduced properly, as they are typically friendly with other animals.

This breed is also known to be intelligent and energetic. Bombay cats enjoy playtime and need regular activity to stay happy. They quickly learn games and can even be taught tricks; many owners report that their Bombays love playing “fetch” or walking on a leash.

Providing toys, cat trees, and interactive games helps channel their energy. Though playful, Bombays usually calm down as they mature, settling into a more relaxed adult temperament.

Bombays are moderately vocal. They will chirp, meow or purr to communicate with owners, often announcing themselves at feeding time or when seeking attention.

However, they are not considered as loud as some breeds (e.g. Siamese). A Bombay’s voice is typically described as distinct but pleasant, and they tend to “chat” happily with familiar people

One important personality note: Bombay cats thrive on human interaction. They do not like being left alone for long periods. In fact, they can develop separation anxiety if neglected. For this reason, a Bombay is best in a home where someone is often around, or with another pet companion.

Care Guide

Diet

Feed your Bombay a high-quality cat food appropriate for its age and activity level. Bombays have a sturdy, muscular build and their deep black coat can hide excess weight gain.

As Purina advises, it’s crucial to monitor their food intake and keep them at a healthy weight. Avoid free-feeding; instead measure meals or feed on a schedule. Because obesity is a common issue for indoor cats, use portion control and engage your Bombay in play to prevent weight gain.

Consult your vet about a weight-management or high-protein formula if needed, and watch for treats or table scraps that can add extra calories. Always provide fresh water and consider wet food to help with hydration.

Exercise

Bombays are active and playful, especially when young. They need regular playtime to stay healthy and happy. Aim for at least 10–15 minutes of interactive play twice a day with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or ball chasers.

Bombays love to jump and climb, so providing a tall cat tree or shelving gives them an outlet for their energy. These cats also enjoy puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys that mimic hunting.

Allowing supervised outdoor time in a secure catio or on a leash (Bombays can learn to walk on a harness) can be a good way to exercise their body and mind. Daily exercise helps prevent boredom and keeps your Bombay fit.

Environment & Enrichment

A Bombay should live indoors only, as their striking black coat makes them too visible outdoors and they are not street-smart. Create an enriched indoor environment with places to climb, scratch, and hide.

Cat shelves or a perch by a window let your Bombay observe birds and outdoor activity safely. Provide a cozy warm spot in the sun or near a radiator, as Bombays love to seek out heat. This could be a cat bed on a sunny windowsill or a heated cat mat.

Because Bombays crave attention, integrate them into daily life: let them sit on the couch or bed with you, or even (safely) be in the kitchen while you cook. Puzzle toys or treat balls will keep their mind busy if you must leave them alone briefly.

In homes where you are away for work, consider adopting a second cat to keep your Bombay company, as breeders and vets note they “need regular quality time with their people”.

Grooming

Grooming needs for a Bombay are minimal thanks to their short coat. A weekly brushing or even just stroking with a soft cloth will remove loose hairs and distribute skin oils, keeping the coat shiny.

Only an occasional bath is needed, mainly if the coat loses its sheen. Trim your Bombay’s nails every 2–3 weeks to prevent overgrowth.

Check the ears weekly and clean gently with a vet-approved solution if needed. Also, brush your cat’s teeth several times a week; dental disease is common in cats and Bombays are no exception. Regular tooth brushing and annual professional cleanings can prevent gum disease.

Overall, aside from routine nail, ear, and dental care, Bombay maintenance is quite easy.

Mental Stimulation

Bombays are intelligent and curious cats. Boredom can lead to mischief, so keep their minds challenged. Use interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders or treat mazes, to engage their problem-solving skills.

Spend time training your Bombay with simple commands or tricks using clicker training – they often love learning to fetch or jump through hoops. Rotating toys regularly keeps interest high. Another idea is providing a window perch so your Bombay can watch the world outside.

Frequent play sessions and new experiences (like safely watching a 5-minute video of birds) will help satisfy their mental needs. In general, the more you involve your Bombay in activities, the less likely it will become bored or restless.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are Bombay cats hypoallergenic? 

No. Bombay cats have short, dense coats but they still produce the dander and saliva proteins that cause allergies in sensitive people. No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, and according to breed specialists Bombays are not an exception. Allergy sufferers should spend time with a Bombay before deciding to bring one home.

Are Bombay cats talkative? 

They can be quite chatty in a sweet way, though not as loud as Siamese or other vocal breeds. Bombays have a clear, distinct meow and will often “talk” to their owners for attention or to greet them.

Many owners note that their Bombay enjoys a good conversation. However, they generally do not meow incessantly; they speak up mainly at meal times or when seeking cuddles.

Can a Bombay be left alone? 

Bombays strongly prefer company. They thrive on attention and can become lonely or even depressed if left alone all day. Veterinary sources warn that Bombays can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

If you work long hours, consider adopting a second pet, hiring a sitter, or otherwise ensuring your Bombay has companionship and stimulation.

Do Bombay cats get along with children and other pets? 

Yes. Bombay cats are known to be gentle and friendly with children and usually tolerate other pets well. They enjoy playing and are patient with kids who are respectful.

They generally get along with calm, cat-friendly dogs and can live happily with other cats, provided introductions are gradual. Each cat’s personality is unique, so supervision and proper introductions are recommended.

Bonus Facts

Bombay cats are truly all black: not only is their fur jet-black, but their whiskers, nose leather, gums, and even paw pads are black. This extreme uniformity gives them their famous “panther” appearance.

They were nicknamed the “patent leather kitten” by cat judges because of their glossy coat. One cat breeder famously described the breed as a “patent-leather kid with new penny eyes”, referring to the shiny coat and bright copper eyes.

Bombay kittens may be born with faint tabby markings that disappear with age. Breed standards only allow solid black adults. Any tabby striping in kittens typically fades, leaving a uniform black coat by maturity.

These cats often seek out the warmest spot in the house. You will commonly find a Bombay basking in a sunbeam or curled up on a radiator. Providing a heated bed or warm perch is a great way to keep them happy.

Bombay cats are slow to mature. A male Bombay may not reach his full height and musculature until around 2 years of age. In fact, compared to many cats, they have a prolonged kittenhood, so patience with young Bombays pays off as they grow into their “leggy” adult frame.

Despite their regal looks, Bombays are reportedly quite trainable. Many owners have successfully trained them to walk on a harness or even learn tricks like fetch and sit. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them more dog-like in this regard.

On average, the Bombay has a long lifespan. Properly cared for, these cats often live well into their mid-teens, with many reaching 15–20 years of age. Their general hardiness and indoor lifestyle contribute to a long, healthy life.

References

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