Bombay
Discover the Bombay cat, a rare solid-black breed developed to resemble a miniature panther, known for its copper eyes, muscular build, and intense need for companionship.
The Bombay is a rare, solid-black domestic cat breed developed to resemble a miniature black panther, distinguished by its glossy coat, copper-golden eyes, and muscular build. This specific look results from decades of selective breeding, primarily in the United States, to create a cat that mimics the appearance of a wild leopard but retains the temperament of a house pet.
Two distinct breeds share the name
There are two different variants of the Bombay, and they are genetically distinct. The US-type Bombay was developed by crossing sable American Burmese with black American Shorthair cats to produce a cat of mostly Burmese type with a sleek, panther-like black coat. The UK-type Bombay, however, is a solid black Asian Self cat, which is a cross between European Burmese and chinchilla Persians, originating from accidental mismatings rather than a deliberate breeding program.
History of a deliberate creation
The US-type breed was the result of a specific goal set by Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky, starting in 1958. Her objective was to create a breed that looked like a miniature black panther. The first attempt failed, but the second attempt in 1965 was successful. The breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1970 and The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1979, cementing its status as a distinct pedigree.
Appearance is strictly defined
The standard for a Bombay is rigorous: the cat must be solid black from the whiskers to the skin. The coat is short, dense, and shiny with a lacquered sheen, colored to the roots with no paling, though juvenile cats under two years old are allowed some variation. The eyes are always copper-golden, ranging from bright orange to warm golden; green eyes are strictly disallowed. The body is a medium-sized, Oriental-type build that is muscular and graceful, with males typically weighing between 3.5 and 5 kg and females between 2.5 and 3.5 kg.
Temperament favors constant contact
Bombay cats are highly social and marked by a strong attachment to their families. They crave attention and are typified by this need for interaction, making them excellent companions for children. They are happy and comfortable as strictly indoor cats and can thrive in small spaces like single-room apartments, provided their social needs are met. They generally prefer quiet surroundings over chaotic environments.
Rarity and health considerations
The Bombay is a relatively rare breed. In 2023, only 160 kittens of the entire Asian group were pedigreed in the UK. In the US, data from TICA shows an average of only 32 registrations annually between 1979 and 2013. Health-wise, a healthy Bombay has an average lifespan of 15 years, with some reaching 20. However, the breed is prone to nasal and sinus problems and gingivitis. Owners must also control food intake to prevent overfeeding, as the breed's appetite can be high.