Bombay Cat Care and Personality: What You Need to Know If You’re Thinking of Getting a Bombay Cat
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Last Updated: December 30, 2023
Embarking on the fascinating journey of cat parenthood brings a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially for first-time cat owners. In this exploration, we delve into the captivating realm of the Bombay cat, a breed that exudes charm with its sleek black coat, muscular physique, and engaging personality.
Let us, together, unravel the mysteries and joys of this “Mini Panther” and discover why Bombay cats are cherished companions for those who can appreciate their distinctive charm.
Brief History
The Bombay cat is not from India, as the name might suggest, but from the United States. It was developed by a breeder named Nikki Horner, who started her project in the late 1950s. She wanted to create a breed that resembled a panther, with a muscular body and a sleek black coat. She crossed sable Burmese cats with black American Shorthairs, and after many years of selective breeding, she achieved her goal.
The breed was named after the city of Bombay (now Mumbai), where the black leopard lives. Horner chose this name to emphasize the exotic and wild appearance of her cats.
The Bombay cat was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1970 and by The International Cat Association in 1979.
Two distinct variants exist within the Bombay cat breed: the American Bombay and the British Bombay. While both are commonly referred to as simply Bombay cats, they differ in their origins and physical characteristics. American-type Bombays were created by selectively breeding sable American Burmese cats with black American Shorthair cats. This resulted in a feline that closely resembles the Burmese breed, but with a striking panther-like black coat and mesmerizing copper-golden eyes.
British-type Bombays, on the other hand, belong to the Asian Self category within the broader Asian cat group. This lineage traces its roots to crosses between European Burmese and Chinchilla Persian cats. Its unique appearance emerged from three accidental matings between European Burmese and black domestic short-haired cats.
This article focuses on the American-type Bombay, while a separate section explores the British-type Bombay under the Asian cat breed.
Physical Features
One of the most striking features of Bombay cats is their glossy black coat, which gives them a resemblance to a miniature panther. The coat is short, fine, and close-lying, and it covers the entire body, including the whiskers, skin, nose, and mouth. The only exception is the eyes, which are round and bright, ranging from gold to copper in color.
Bombay cats are a medium-sized breed with a muscular and well-proportioned body. The head is round, with medium-sized ears that are set wide apart. The legs are slender and graceful, and the tail is straight and medium in length. It can weigh up to 15 pounds and measure up to 20 inches in length.
These cats are not hypoallergenic, as no cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. However, some people may have less allergic reactions to them than to other breeds, as they have a short coat that sheds less and produces less dander. Dander is the main cause of cat allergies, as it contains a protein called Fel d 1 that triggers the immune system.
The Bombay cat may also produce less saliva, which also contains Fel d 1. However, the amount of dander and saliva varies from cat to cat, and some people may still be allergic to them.
Personality
The Bombay cat is a very personable breed with a curious and playful nature. They are intelligent and outgoing and enjoy learning new tricks and games. They are also very adaptable and can adjust to different environments and situations easily.
Bombay cats are not very independent and prefer to be around their human family. They are very affectionate and will often demand attention and cuddles from their owners. They love to sit on laps, snuggle under the covers, and follow their owners around the house. In addition, they are very vocal and will communicate their needs and feelings with a variety of sounds.
Bombays are generally good with children and other pets, as long as they are introduced properly and treated with respect. They are not aggressive or territorial, and they will get along well with other friendly animals. They are also very tolerant of children, and they will enjoy playing with them and being part of their activities. However, they may not appreciate being handled roughly or teased, and they will let their owners know if they are unhappy.
Bombay cats are best suited for families who can provide them with plenty of love, attention, and stimulation. They are not ideal for people who are away from home for long periods of time or who want a low-maintenance cat.
These cats are loyal, loving, and lively, and they will make wonderful companions for anyone who can appreciate their unique qualities.
Health Issues & Lifespan
One of the advantages of owning a Bombay cat is that they are generally healthy and long-lived. This breed does not have any major genetic predispositions or breed-specific diseases that affect their health.
They have an average lifespan of 15 years, but some can live up to 20 years if well-tended. This breed is considered to be one of the healthiest cat breeds overall, and cat kidney failure or cat diabetes are rare. However, their lifespan will depend on many factors, such as their genetics, activity levels, diet, veterinary care, and so on.
Bombays are relatively rare, and as a breed established only in the 1950s, there is limited research-based evidence regarding specific conditions unique to them.
Nevertheless, they may tend to develop pancreatic and kidney issues as they get older. They can also suffer from some of the most common cardiac diseases found in cats, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and aortic thromboembolism (ATE).
HCM is a condition where the walls of the ventricle thicken and the ventricle is unable to pump blood efficiently, while ATE is a condition where a blood clot forms in the heart and travels to the aorta, blocking the blood flow to the rear limbs.
Both of these conditions can cause sudden pain, paralysis, labored breathing, and an irregular heartbeat. There is no direct treatment for these conditions, so they have to be monitored and managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
Another possible health issue that can affect Bombays is Burmese head defect (BHD) or craniofacial defect, a life-threatening condition that manifests at birth and is caused by a recessive gene inherited from their Burmese parent.
Kittens with BHD have improperly formed jaws, deformed skulls, and a brain that protrudes from the skull. Most of the kittens with this condition end up stillborn or have to be euthanized due to the condition’s severity.
Due to the often fatal nature of BHD, breeding Burmese cats known to give birth to kittens with this condition is entirely unethical. Therefore, when seeking Bombay cats, ensure collaboration with a reputable breeder who openly shares their cats’ health history and can offer evidence of genetic testing for all their kittens.
Special Care Needs
Bombay cats are easy to care for, but they do have some special needs that you should be aware of.
Grooming
Bombays have a short, sleek coat that does not require much grooming. However, you should still brush them once a week or rub them with a soft cloth to remove loose hair and dirt and to keep their fur shiny and healthy.
You should also check their ears, eyes, and teeth regularly and clean them as needed. Bombays are prone to dental problems, so you should brush their teeth daily or use dental treats to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. In addition, you should trim their nails every two weeks or as needed and start this habit when they are young to get them used to it.
Exercise
Bombay cats are very active and playful, and they need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and happy. You should provide them with a variety of toys and games that stimulate their curiosity and intelligence, such as puzzle toys, feather wands, and catnip mice.
You should also play with them for at least 15 minutes a day and teach them tricks and commands to challenge their minds. Bombays love to climb and explore, so you should also give them access to cat trees, shelves, and windowsills where they can perch and observe their surroundings.
Playtime
The Bombay cat is very social and affectionate, and they crave human attention and interaction. They are not the type of cat that can be left alone for long periods of time, as they can get bored and depressed.
You should spend as much time as possible with them and give them lots of love and cuddles. They will follow you around the house, sit on your lap, snuggle with you in bed, and even join you in the shower. Additionally, they will communicate with you with their distinctive voice and let you know what they want and how they feel. Bombays are very loyal and devoted, and they will bond strongly with you and your family.
Special care
Bombay cats do not have any major health issues or genetic predispositions, but they may be sensitive to some environmental factors. They have a dark coat that absorbs heat, so you should keep them away from direct sunlight and hot temperatures and provide them with plenty of fresh water and shade. They may also be prone to sunburn, especially on their ears and nose, so you should apply sunscreen or use a sunblock collar to protect them.
These cats have a short nose that can cause breathing problems, so you should avoid exposing them to smoke, dust, and allergens. Also, keep their litter box clean and well-ventilated. In addition, they are sensitive to anesthesia, so you should consult your veterinarian before any surgical procedure or dental cleaning.
Fun Facts
Here are some fun facts about the Bombay cat that you might not know:
- Bombay cats are nicknamed “Mini Panthers” because of their sleek black coat and muscular build.
- They are also known as “Patent-Leather Kids” and “Parlor Panthers”.
- Bombays are relatively rare cats, and they have only been around as a breed since the 1950s.
- These cats are relatively quiet, but they will communicate with their owners through a variety of vocalizations.
Who is the Bombay Cat Best Suited For?
Bombay cats are wonderful pets that can bring joy and companionship to their owners. However, they are not suitable for everyone, as they have some special needs and preferences that you should consider before adopting one.
The type of person suitable to own a Bombay cat is someone who:
• Loves cats and has experience with them. Bombay cats are very social and affectionate, and they need a lot of human attention and interaction. They are not the type of cat that can be left alone for long periods of time, as they can get bored and depressed. They also need regular playtime and exercise to keep them stimulated and happy. Therefore, you should be a cat lover who can provide them with plenty of love, attention, and stimulation.
• Has a stable and consistent schedule. Bombays are very adaptable and can adjust to different environments and situations easily. However, they also like routine and consistency, and they can get stressed or anxious if there are frequent changes in their living conditions or their owner’s schedule. As such, you should have a stable and consistent schedule that allows you to spend quality time with your Bombay cat every day and avoid leaving them alone for more than a few hours at a time.
• Lives in a spacious and secure home. Bombays are very active and playful, and they need enough space to run, jump, climb, and explore. They also love to perch and observe their surroundings, so they need access to cat trees, shelves, and windowsills where they can do so. In this regard, you should live in a spacious and secure home that can accommodate their needs and prevent them from escaping or getting into trouble. You should also provide them with a variety of toys and games that stimulate their curiosity and intelligence, such as puzzle toys, feather wands, and catnip mice.
Final Thoughts
Bombay cats are an amazing breed that combines the appearance of a wild panther with the personality of a loyal companion. They have many unique features and characteristics that make them stand out from other cats. However, they also have some special needs and preferences that you should consider before adopting one.
Bombays are best suited for people who love cats and can provide them with plenty of love, attention, and stimulation. They are also ideal for people who have a stable and consistent schedule and live in a spacious and secure home.
If you think you are the type of person suitable to own a Bombay cat, you will be rewarded with a loyal, loving, and lively companion that will make your life more fun and fulfilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bombay cat?
A Bombay cat is a short-haired breed of domestic cat known for its sleek black coat, muscular build, and large copper-golden eyes. They are playful, affectionate, and intelligent companions.
Are Bombay cats aggressive?
No, Bombay cats are not aggressive by nature. They are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. However, like any cat, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or scared.
Are Bombay cats rare?
Yes, Bombay cats are relatively rare, as they have only been around as a breed since the 1950s. They are not as widely recognized as some other cat breeds, such as Siamese or Persian cats.
How much are Bombay kittens?
The price of Bombay kittens can vary depending on the breeder, the kitten’s lineage, and their health. Generally, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 for a Bombay kitten.
How long do Bombay cats live?
Bombay cats have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, but some have lived to be 20 years old or older.
How much does a Bombay cat cost?
The cost of an adult Bombay cat can vary depending on the breeder, the cat’s lineage, and its health. Generally, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for an adult Bombay.
Are Bombay cats hypoallergenic?
No, Bombay cats are not hypoallergenic. They produce a protein called Fel d 1, which is the main cause of cat allergies. However, some people with mild allergies may find that they can tolerate these cats without experiencing symptoms.
How big do Bombay cats get?
Bombay cats are medium-sized cats. Male Bombays typically weigh between 8 and 10 pounds, while females typically weigh between 6 and 8 pounds.
Do Bombay cats shed a lot?
Bombay cats have a short, fine coat that sheds very little. They are considered to be a low-shedding breed of cat.
Are Bombay cats good with children?
Bombay cats are generally good with children. They are playful and affectionate, and they enjoy interacting with people of all ages. However, it is always important to supervise children when they are interacting with any cat, including Bombays.
Featured Image Credit: PickPik
Reina Marie Gonzales is the Founder of Sharp Minds Content LLC. She’s also an entrepreneur and a writer with over 20 years of experience. Cat mom to the sweetest and most adorable Persian kitty, her other passions include personal development, self-love, spirituality, and self-empowerment. She considers herself a lifelong learner and always sees the glass half full.
