Bombay cat breed: facts, temperament and care

About the Bombay

The Bombay is a black shorthair designed to resemble a small panther. The American type was created by crossing sable American Burmese with black American Shorthairs. Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky, began the work in 1958. Her first attempt failed, and the second, in 1965, succeeded. The name refers to Bombay, now Mumbai, in India, because of the cat's resemblance to the black leopard of that region.

A separate British type came from crossing European Burmese with black domestic shorthairs in the early 1980s. The GCCF registers that type as the Asian Self.

The Bombay is medium in size, muscular and surprisingly heavy for its looks. The head is round with a short muzzle, and the eyes are round and copper to gold. Green eyes are not allowed. The coat is short, fine and so close-lying that it gleams like patent leather, and it is solid black down to the whiskers, nose leather and paw pads. The CFA recognised the breed for championship in 1976.

Temperament and living with one

Bombays are highly social and attached to their people. They like to be in a lap, in the middle of the activity, or in bed. They are playful, bold and often love to learn tricks and fetch. They have a moderate voice and ask for attention without being loud.

They are considered good with children, and they tolerate other pets when introduced well. They are not independent and do not enjoy long periods alone, so a second cat or a family home with someone around suits them. They adapt well to apartment life if they have toys and company.

Care: coat, food and play

The coat takes almost no work. A weekly wipe with a damp cloth or a rubber mitt removes loose hair and brings out the shine. Check the teeth and ears, trim the nails, and keep an eye on the eyes and nose.

Feed a complete diet in measured portions. The Bombay can put on weight if fed freely. Provide a cat tree, scratching post, puzzle feeder and daily play.

Health

The Bombay is a generally healthy breed with a lifespan commonly in the teens. Its short muzzle makes nasal and sinus problems possible, and dental problems such as gum inflammation can occur, so ask your vet about dental care. Because the American Bombay descends from the Burmese, ask a breeder about screening for inherited conditions found in Burmese lines, such as the craniofacial defect and low blood potassium. Keep the cat lean. Noisy breathing, discharge from the nose or sore gums are reasons to see a vet.

Is it right for you?

A Bombay suits an owner who wants a loving, easy-care cat that wants to be involved with the family. It is a poor choice for a home that is empty all day. For the parent breed, see the Burmese. For a British counterpart, see the Asian.