Bombay Cat Traits
Bombay Cat Height
40 cm
Bombay Cat Weight
Between 3-7 Kg
Bombay Cat Life Expectancy
15-20 years
Bombay Cat Appearance
- Copper-Gold eye color
- Smooth and short fur
- Black fur color
- Walking style resembling a black leopard
- Sturdy skeletal structure
- Round head structure reminiscent of Scottish cats
Bombay Cat General Character
Compassion towards the family
X
Communication with children
X
X
Communication with other cats
X
While the name Bombay suggests a connection to the former name of Mumbai in India, their origins trace back to America. Playful, intelligent, and human-friendly, Bombay cats often have low and melodic vocal tones.
Young Bombays are active and curious cats, adapting easily to changes. They enjoy observing the world around them at every age, and a favorite spot is often by a window where they can watch the outside world. These cats are very affectionate and sometimes like to spend time with their parents. It's quite likely for a Bombay to jump into someone's lap and spread its elegant body over the newspaper they are reading. However, as Bombays age, they may calm down a bit and prefer to observe rather than participate in activities.
Bombay Cat History
The Bombay cat was developed in the United States in the late 1950s by a cat breeder named Nikki Horner. Horner successfully achieved the panther-like appearance of Bombays by crossing a Burmese cat with an American Shorthair. This enchanting breed was named Bombay to evoke the resemblance to the Black Leopard. While the creation of this miniature panther cat is primarily attributed to Nikki Horner, Bombays were also bred in the United Kingdom. The American Bombay is a cross between sable Burmese and Black American Shorthairs, while the British Bombay is a cross between Burmese and Black British Shorthairs.
Despite being hybrids of different cats, the English and American versions of Bombay cats have nearly identical physical appearances and personality traits.
The Bombay was accepted for championship competition by The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1976. The International Cat Association (TICA) also recognized the Bombay in 1979.
Bombay Cat Personality and Character Traits
Bombay cats are social, affectionate, and enjoy interacting with their surroundings. They are known for their loyalty to their owners and their constant need for attention. Due to their high intelligence, they are easily trainable and can often be taken for walks on a leash. Despite being playful, they have a measured character. Their moderate behavior makes them get along well with children. While Bombay cats enjoy climbing and jumping games in their younger years, they may not be as fond of getting up from the couch as they age.
Like Siamese and Sphinx cats, Bombay cats are talkative and express their expectations with insistent and sharp sounds. They have earned the nickname "Velcro kitties" because they stick to your side not just to show affection but also whenever they deem it necessary.
Bombay Cat Appearance
Bombay cat has glossy black fur, a round head, and bright copper or golden-yellow eyes. The body of this breed is of medium size, muscular, and in balanced proportions. Their short, shiny, and tight coat is characterized by a soft and satin-like texture. Another distinctive feature that sets them apart from other cat breeds is their completely black nose and paw pads.
Bombay Cat General Care
Bombay Cat Feather Care
The short and sophisticated fur of Bombay cats does not require much grooming. Apart from seasonal shedding, the hair loss is minimal. Brushing once a week can prevent hair around the house and on clothes.
Like all cat breeds, Bombay cats' nails should be trimmed every few weeks, and litter boxes should be regularly cleaned. In addition, here are other points to consider in the care of Bombay cats:
- Their short and soft fur should be brushed once a week to maintain its natural shine.
- Alternatively, running a soft leather cloth over their fur adds luster.
- Bombay cats shed minimal fur and are naturally clean animals.
- Periodic baths help keep their fur soft and shiny.
- Their nails should be trimmed approximately every two weeks.
- Ear health should be monitored. The inside of their ears should be checked every one or two weeks to ensure there is no redness or buildup of dirt.
- When cleaning the ears, only the dirty areas should be cleaned to avoid disrupting the natural bacterial balance.
Bombay Cat Exercise
Bombay cats are energetic and playful. They need regular play to be stimulated both physically and mentally. Interactive toys and feather balls are ideal for Bombays. They are robust cats both in terms of appearance and feel. Because they are good climbers and jumpers, cat trees and scratching posts are essential for them. The Bombay is a sturdy, compact cat, and attention should be paid to its diet to prevent obesity, especially if it does not get enough exercise.
While adult Bombays are calm, they tend to behave like kittens and enjoy daily playtime. They take great pleasure in being loved by their parents and having their bellies rubbed.
Bombay Cat Health
Bombay cats, generally influenced by Burmese genetics, are healthy overall and not prone to serious genetic illnesses. However, they may experience nose problems such as sinus issues. If there is crowding of teeth, there is a risk of gum inflammation. It is recommended to brush the teeth of Bombay cats prone to gum inflammation a few times a week. If needed, veterinary consultation should be sought for dental cleaning to remove tartar.
Bombay Cat Nutrition
Bombay cats, especially as they age, may be prone to excessive weight gain. Therefore, they require scheduled feeding rather than free feeding. Essential fatty acids are important for Bombay cats, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to coat health and overall well-being.
Did you know?
- Miniature Panther: Bombay cats are often referred to as "miniature panthers" due to their sleek black fur and graceful movements.
- Eye Color: A distinctive feature of Bombay cats is their bright eyes, which are copper or golden-yellow in color.
- Dog-Like Behaviors: These cats exhibit dog-like behaviors, such as following their owners around the house and enjoying playtime.
- Warmth Enthusiast: Bombay cats love warmth. They prefer sleeping on warm surfaces, especially in sunlight.
- Voice Tone: Bombay cats typically have a low and melodic voice tone, setting them apart from other cat breeds.
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