Bombays are easy-going, energetic cats. They love to play and thrive in big families. If you’re looking for the ultimate black cat, Bombays are a perfect choice. Their glossy coat and golden saucer-like eyes are highly sought-after.
These feline companions are known for their endearing personalities, playful nature, and agreeable temperament. Their delightful combination of beauty and delightful disposition makes them wonderful and beloved pets for those fortunate enough to share their homes with them.
Read on to learn more about these wonderful cats!
Fun Facts About Bombay Cats
1. Bombay Cats are Wild
Similar to Bengal and Savannah cats, the Bombay possesses a domestic heritage while boasting a feral appearance.
American breeders crossed black American Shorthair with sable Burmese cats to achieve Bombay’s exotic panther-like appearance. Their striking, wild cat appearance has earned them nicknames like the “mini-panther” and the “parlor panther.”
2. Bombay Cats aren’t from Bombay
American breeder Nikki Horner wanted to create a domestic cat breed that resembled a black leopard.
Ms. Horner began the breeding project in the 1950s, and the first hybrid kitten was born in 1965. Horner named the successful breed “Bombay” because it resembled that exotic port city’s black leopards in India.
Bombays are recognized as an official cat breed by both the Cat Fanciers’ Association and the International Cat Association.
3. Bombay Cats are Completely Black
You can easily recognize Bombay cats by their glossy, dramatic black coats. You’ll notice that even their noses and their paws are black. This trait is uncommon in other black cats—just one more feature that makes Bombays stand out from the crowd.
Bombay cats are completely black, from their ears to the pads on their paws. It’s easy for these cats to hide in dark places. When they emerge out of dark alleys, they can startle you. While most Bombay’s have a tinge of pink on their paws, they have a unique physical appearance that sets them apart.
4. Bombay Cats Prefer Warmth
These sleek, medium-sized cats are habitual heat-seekers. It’s not uncommon to find a Bombay cat resting peacefully near any heat source. They love to curl up near a sunny window ledge for warmth or, even better—on top of their favorite human!
If it’s cold outside, you’ll most likely find your Bombay in the warmest place in your house. They love to sleep beside a fireplace and feel the warm heat. If you live in a chilly environment, you will need to keep your Bombay cat warm and snuggly indoors.
You must guard all the hot heat sources to prevent your cat from painful burns. As much as they seek out heaters and fireplace warmth, they also enjoy getting other animals. It’s not unheard of to find a Bombay cat sleeping with the family dog on a cold winter’s night.
5. Bombay Cats Require Minimal Grooming
This news will come as a happy surprise for anyone looking for a low-maintenance cat. The Bombay’s fuss-free short hair and dense coat don’t require much grooming beyond weekly brushing.
This cat breed also sheds less than the average kitty.
6. Bombay Cats are Social Butterflies
“Velcro cats” is an apt name for Bombays that keep close to their beloved owners. They will seek their favorite human’s attention and follow their owner from room to room.
They’re also good with strangers. You won’t find Bombay cats running to hide under the bed when your friends arrive. Bombay’s are likely to greet you—and anyone else—with a warm welcome at the front door.
These social cats hate being abandoned for long periods, and they’re prone to depression and loneliness if left alone for too long. This can also lead to destructive behavior. If you’re away at work all day, leave some treats and toys for your kitty to enjoy. You can also provide them with a scratching post to stay busy and distracted.
7. They are Bossy
Make no mistake—Bombays love to be in charge. Although friendly, Bombays usually get along with other cats and dogs. But they always prefer to rule the roost.
8. Bombay Cats are Smart
These playful cats are highly intelligent. You can successfully train them to perform tricks and to play fetch. Some of them can also learn to walk outside on a leash!
9. Bombay Cats Enjoy “Burrowing”
Bombay cats like to burrow in blankets. It’s not unusual to find a Bombay cat nestling in a pile of laundry or underneath your quilt. This is the perfect arrangement for owners who enjoy snuggling up with their pets at bedtime. Just be careful when you jump into bed—there could be a small kitty hiding beneath your comforter.
10. British Bombays are Different from American Bombays
British and American breeders took different approaches to the creation of Bombay cats. American Bombays are a cross between a sable Burmese and a black American Shorthair, whereas British breeders paired black domestic cats with Burmese cats.
The two breeds are similar, but the main difference is in their eyes. American Bombays have gold or copper eyes, while British Bombays have green eyes.
Bombays feature a winning combination of good manners and good looks. One thing we know for sure – they’re black cats that won’t curse you with bad luck if you cross paths with them.
11. They Purr Like Big Cats
Get ready for a surprise if you haven’t heard a Bombay cat purr. They are popular for their loud purring when they’re around their owners. They also respond when their owner talks to them. Bombay cats have unique personalities and a great vocal range. They even sound and act like humans when they talk back. This is another endearing feature that makes Bombay cats attractive to pet owners. They make great companions for people. It’s nice to have a conversation with your pet, even if you don’t speak the same language.
12. Bombays look like a Mini Black Leopard
When you compare pictures of a black Leopard and a Bombay cat, you will quickly notice the resemblance. This was the main goal of the breeders who began this project in the 1950s. They wanted a cat that looked like a miniature Leopard.
Bombay cats have the Burmese breed’s physical structure and the black color of the American short hair. If you wake up in the middle of the night, you may get scared if the Bombay cat jumps on you in the low-light room. They look like a leopard, just in a miniature version.
13. They Have a Unique Eye Color
Bombay cats’ eye color ranges from copper to gold. This hue looks striking against the black satin coat. Bombay cats begin to change eye color when they are four months old. If you’re picking a Bombay kitten from a litter, there’s no real way to determine the eye color it will develop.
14. Bombay Cats are Loyal
Bombay cats’ most endearing quality is their loyalty. They can form an affectionate bond with family members. While they love attention and affection from all family members, they seem to pick one favorite person. Bombay cats will form a strong connection with this person and follow them around the house!
If you have a regular schedule of coming home, your cat will learn and expect you at the door. Don’t be surprised to find your cat waiting at the entrance to greet you. One of the most remarkable qualities of a Bombay cat is their devotion to their owners. Attention-loving Bombay’s love to rub against their owner’s legs and are happy to relax at your feet. They love physical contact and are fiercely loyal.
Bombay Cats 101: Cat Care
15. Bombays are a New Cat Breed
The Bombay cat breed came into being in the 1970s. Breeders began experimentation in the 1950s, but it took a while to achieve their desired goals. It takes effort and persistence to register a breed and gain recognition from the Cat Fancier’s Association.
Nowadays, Bombay cats are popular and are eligible for pedigree. Some people believe that this breed came from cats interbreeding with wild panthers, but that isn’t true. Bombays may have a strong resemblance, but it took selective breeding and a lengthy process to produce them.
16. Bombays are Sensitive Cats
Bombays are highly intelligent cats, which makes them more sensitive than others. They are an emotional breed that needs positive reinforcement. Bombays don’t like being mistreated or ignored. You should never use negative reinforcement methods like punishing your cat.
There are better ways to get your Bombay cat’s attention. If you want to raise a healthy Bombay, you need to offer love and attention. Your sensitive feline also needs frequent playtime!
17. Bombay Cats Give Free Massages
These wonderful cats are happy to show their love for you with a belly massage. Bombays enjoy rubbing and kneading their owners. You’ll get personal massages for free, but be careful of the claws. If your cat accidentally scratches you, it’s time for you to discipline them.
Bombays are smart cats, so it’s easier to train them. Your cat will soon learn to be mindful of the claws. They usually purr while they are giving you a good massage. This is another behavior of Bombays that makes them so popular.
18. Bombays are Lap Cats
Bombays enjoy human companionship. They are one of the biggest attention seekers in the cat universe. They love sitting in their owner’s lap for a good cuddle session. Your Bombay cat will circle your legs and beg to be in your lap. You can’t resist their pleading eyes when they look up at you. If Bombays can’t get your attention, they’ll jump onto your lap uninvited.
19. Bombay Cats are Tolerant
Bombays are easygoing and tolerant cats who take life as it comes. They enjoy greeting visitors and get along well with children, dogs, and other pets. Bombay cats can also adjust well to their new environments.
These cats are a perfect choice if you have multiple pets in your home. As long as your other pets are cat-friendly, Bombays are incredibly tolerant of pets and children. They are patient cats, so you won’t need to worry about your dog and cat fighting.
20. They Love to Stare
Bombay cats have a big tendency to stare. They set their gaze on one person or thing and observe them for a while. Some people think that this is creepy, but Bombay cats are studying what they are looking at. They never have any ill intent.
Bombays are intelligent cats, and you can’t always tell what’s going on in their minds.
21. Bombay Cats are Named after a Port
Bombay cats were given this name not because they were born in India for the first time but because of the inspiration.
Yes…
Bombay cats – a name that was given to this particular breed because of the inspiration from leopards in India. So basically, Bombay cats are named after a port in India where leopards are common.
Interesting, right?
Though the person who named them wasn’t from India.
22. Bombay is Not a Natural Cat Breed
Bombay cat breed did not exist until the 1950s. It was in the late 1950s when the Bombay cats were born as a result of a breeders’ experiment.
Yes, this breed was created intentionally by a breeder known as Nikki Horner, So it is not a natural breed. The Bombay cat’s parents are Burmese and American Shorthairs or European Shorthairs. Bombay cats look more like Burmese, but the body curves are like American Shorthair cats.
23. Bombay Cats are Famously Known as Little Black Panthers
Another interesting fact is that Bombay cats are famously known as little black panthers because of their similar appearance but different sizes. To be honest, for me, Bombay cats are like baby panthers, though they don’t have any blood relation. Bombay cat’s color is jet black, just like black panthers. Their eye color is somewhat similar too.
STRANGE!
Cute Bombay Cats & Compilation
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bombay cats are captivating and unique feline companions. With their exotic appearance and affectionate personalities, they bring joy to any household.
Whether you’re drawn to their panther-like looks or their loving nature, Bombay cats are undeniably remarkable. Whether you’re considering adding one to your family or simply appreciating them from afar, these fun facts provide a deeper understanding and admiration for this beloved breed.
