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Bombay cat master archive image

ARCHIVE / BOMBAY

Bombay

ORIGIN & HISTORY

Created in the 1950s by breeder Nikki Horner in Kentucky, USA, who aimed to produce a 'miniature panther'. Named after the black panthers of Bombay, India, through the crossbreeding of Burmese and black American Shorthairs.

IDEAL FOR

  • + Owners seeking a 'velcro cat' that thrives on constant human companionship
  • + Busy individuals who need a low-shedding and easy-to-groom breed
  • + Families with children or other pets looking for a gentle, social companion
WEIGHT
2.5 - 5.5KG
LIFESPAN
12 - 16YEARS

THINK TWICE IF

  • - Individuals who prefer a quiet, independent cat that enjoys solitude
  • - Owners who cannot provide significant daily interaction and lap time
  • - Environments where maintaining a stable, warm indoor temperature is difficult

MORPHOLOGY STUDY

Bombay cat frontal morphology study
01 / Frontal Face
Bombay cat 90-degree profile
90° PROFILE
Bombay cat full body lateral line
LATERAL LINE
Bombay cat eye macro focus
EYE MASTER
HEALTH RISK ADVISORY
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Severity: Moderate
Craniofacial defect
Severity: Low
Variant study
VARIANT STUDY

The Bombay cat is a sleek, black short-haired breed designed to resemble a miniature black panther, known for its incredible affection and copper eyes.

CARE INDEX

GROOMING
SHEDDING
ACTIVITY

ECONOMICS & ORIGIN

PRICE RANGE
$1,200 - $2,800 (Cattery standard)
ORIGIN & BIOLOGY
United States / cobby_to_semi_cobby

SOCIAL COMPATIBILITY

KIDS
OTHER CATS
DOGS
STRANGERS

RECOMMENDED CARE ITEMS

Soft Boar Bristle Brush
Maximizes the satin sheen without irritating the skin, perfect for their short and fine coat
Heated Velvet Pet House
A must-have for these cold-sensitive cats who love soft, luxurious materials to curl up in

IDENTIFICATION TIP

"Look for a rounder face and eyes that are a deep copper or orange color, unlike the yellow or green eyes of common black cats."

FREQUENTLY ASKED

Q. How is it different from a common black cat?

A. Bombays have rounder faces and eyes that must be copper or gold. Their coat is also shorter, more close-lying, and has a distinct 'satin' sheen.

Q. Are they aggressive because they look like panthers?

A. Not at all. Despite their wild look, they are among the most affectionate and people-oriented breeds, often following owners like dogs.

Q. Do they shed much?

A. No, they have very little undercoat and are considered low-shedding. A light weekly brushing is enough to manage any loose fur.

Q. Are they good with children?

A. Yes, they are patient and social, making them excellent family pets that bond deeply with all family members, including children.

Q. Can they be left alone for long?

A. No, they are prone to separation anxiety. They thrive best in homes where they have company, whether it's humans or other pets.

OFFICIAL RECOGNITION

CFA (The Cat Fanciers' Association)
Championship
TICA (The International Cat Association)
Championship Breed

REFERENCES & SOURCES

CFA (The Cat Fanciers' Association)
CFA (The Cat Fanciers' Association) VIEW OFFICIAL STANDARD
CFA (The Cat Fanciers' Association) VIEW OFFICIAL STANDARD
TICA (The International Cat Association)
TICA (The International Cat Association) VIEW OFFICIAL STANDARD
TICA (The International Cat Association) VIEW OFFICIAL STANDARD

* This guide describes general breed characteristics. For medical decisions, always consult a professional veterinarian.