Bombay Cat Breed

The Bombay is a pure black cat similar to Burmese, but the influence of the American Shorthair has meant that the Bombay is sturdier and has a more rounded head. The "patent-leather" coat is offset by brightly colored gold or deep copper eyes. The body is medium-sized and muscular. This highly distinctive breed was created in 1950s by Nikki Horner of Kentucky. The intention was to produce a cat that resembled a miniature black panther. It was developed from the combination of a Sable Burmese and a Black . The Bombay was accepted for championship by the CFA in 1976.

Accorting to the TICA breed classification, the Bombay belongs to the Burmese group. This is a shorthaired, semi-cobby cat with substantial bone structure and surprising weight for its size. It may appear a medium-sized cat, but when one picks it up, it is quite heavy. It has a strong, solid feel to it.

There is something magical about the combination of the deep copper eye color and the black, shiny, slick coat which is wonderfully smooth to the touch.

Many Bombay cats have a Burmese "personality", which means they are very relaxed and intelligent. Many will retrieve and perform tricks. The Bombay is a cat that craves human attention, loves to play games and is tolerant of children and dogs. It is therefore ideal as a family pet. Bombays may or may not be "talkative", but they are no way as noisy as Siamese or Orientals. Many Bombays are well adapted to apartment and house living since they are generally calm and quiet in nature.

Known health issues in Bombay cats include cherry eye, cleft palate, and skull, jaw and tooth malformations.

Bombay Breeders Caricature Cattery (USA) www.bombayandburmesecats.com

If you would like to be listed here as an Bombay Breeder or a member of an Bombay rescue organization, please send us and email