Cat Breed - Bombay
About the Bombay
Introduction: Bombay - A Comprehensive Guide
Brief Overview:
The Bombay is a sleek, muscular, and affectionate cat breed known for its jet-black coat, copper or gold eyes, and striking panther-like appearance. Often referred to as the “miniature panther,” the Bombay is a highly social, playful, and intelligent companion. If you’re looking for a cat that is both elegant and affectionate, the Bombay might be the perfect choice.
Looking for Bombay kittens for sale in Maryland or the Washington DC area? Luxury Only Kittens is a TICA-registered Bombay breeder in Bethesda, MD.
Looking for Bombay kittens for sale in Maryland or the Washington DC area? Luxury Only Kittens is a TICA-registered Bombay breeder in Bethesda, MD.
Breed History
Origins:
The Bombay cat was developed in the United States in the 1950s by breeder Nikki Horner, who aimed to create a cat that resembled a small black panther. To achieve this, she crossed a Burmese with a black American Shorthair. The result was a cat with a muscular, compact body, a glossy black coat, and stunning gold or copper eyes.
Despite its name, the Bombay cat has no direct connection to India. The name was chosen because the breed’s appearance closely resembles the black leopards of Bombay (now Mumbai), India.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized the Bombay in 1976, and today, it is a beloved breed known for its striking appearance and affectionate personality.
Physical Characteristics
The Bombay is a medium-sized, well-muscled cat with a sleek, black coat and vivid copper or gold eyes.
Body:
- Medium-sized, muscular, and compact.
- Weighs 8 to 12 pounds, with males typically larger.
- Rounded features with a strong, athletic build.
Coat:
- Short, sleek, and jet black, with a glossy, patent-leather-like shine.
- Lies close to the body, giving the cat a smooth, elegant look.
- Unlike other black cats, even the paw pads and nose are black.
Head & Face:
- Rounded head with full cheeks and a strong chin.
- Small to medium ears, set slightly forward.
Eyes:
- Large, round, and expressive.
- Copper or deep gold eyes, which contrast beautifully with the black coat.
Tail:
- Medium-length, straight, and proportionate to the body.
Personality and Temperament
General Disposition:
Bombay cats are friendly, intelligent, and highly social. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of the family.
- Affectionate and Loyal: Bombays love attention and often form strong bonds with their owners.
- Highly Intelligent: They learn quickly, enjoy puzzle toys, and can even be trained to perform tricks.
- Playful and Energetic: They love interactive games, chasing toys, and climbing.
- Talkative but Soft-Spoken: They have a gentle, melodic voice and enjoy “talking” to their humans.
- Great with Families and Other Pets: Bombays are social and get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs.
Bombays hate being alone for long periods, so they do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and companionship.
Health and Lifespan
Health and Care of the Bombay
Bombay cats are generally healthy and long-lived, with an average lifespan of 12 to 18 years. However, they are prone to some breed-specific health concerns.
Common Health Concerns:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A common heart condition in many cat breeds.
- Respiratory Issues: Due to their short nose, some Bombays may experience mild breathing difficulties.
- Obesity: They love food, so portion control is important.
Grooming Needs:
- Low-maintenance coat – brushing once a week keeps their fur sleek and shiny.
- Regular ear cleaning to prevent wax buildup.
- Nail trimming every 2–3 weeks to maintain healthy paws.
- Dental care is important, as they can be prone to gum disease.
Diet and Nutrition:
- High-protein diet to support their muscular build.
- Balanced wet and dry food combination for hydration and dental health.
- Fresh water available at all times to support kidney function.
Exercise and Playtime:
- Interactive play sessions with wand toys and laser pointers.
- Cat trees and climbing shelves to satisfy their athletic nature.
- Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys to engage their minds.
Interesting Facts
How Much Does a Bombay Kitten Cost?
Bombay kittens from a TICA-registered cattery typically range from $1,000 to $1,800. At Luxury Only Kittens, all kittens come health-tested, vaccinated, and TICA registered. View available kittens →
How Much Does a Bombay Kitten Cost?
Bombay kittens from a TICA-registered cattery typically range from $1,000 to $1,800. At Luxury Only Kittens, all kittens come health-tested, vaccinated, and TICA registered. View available kittens →
- The Mini Panther Look: Bombays were bred to resemble black panthers, but they are completely domestic.
- Copper Eyes Are a Must: Unlike other black cats, Bombays must have deep copper or gold eyes.
- Heat Seekers: Bombays love warmth and will often seek out sunny spots or cuddle with their owners.
Other Pictures of Bombay
Frequently Asked Questions About Bombay Kittens
Do your Bombay kittens come with registration papers?
Registration papers (TICA, CFA, WCF, or another registry) depend on the origin breeder and whether the kitten is placed as pet-quality or breeding-quality. Most families receive pet-quality kittens without formal registry papers, which is standard for ethical breeder-to-family placement. If registration matters to you for showing or breeding, tell us during inquiry and we will match you with a kitten from a registered line. Full lineage and parent details are shared with you before purchase.
What health testing do you perform on Bombay kittens?
All Bombay kittens receive age-appropriate FVRCP vaccinations, deworming, and negative FeLV/FIV screening before placement. Parent cats are DNA-tested for breed-specific hereditary conditions, and where applicable echocardiogram-screened for HCM. Written health guarantee included with every placement.
Do you deliver Bombay kittens nationwide?
Yes. Luxury Only Kittens offers personalized white-glove delivery across the United States, including Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Miami, Houston, and Los Angeles. Delivery is either hand-delivered by our team or accompanied by a bonded flight nanny in-cabin, never as unattended cargo.
What age do Bombay kittens go home with new families?
Bombay kittens are placed between 12 and 16 weeks of age. This ensures full weaning, complete first-round vaccinations, and proper socialization with mother and littermates. We never place kittens earlier.
How long is the waitlist for a Bombay kitten?
It depends on availability. If a Bombay kitten matching what you want is already in our current litters, placement can happen within days. For a specific request such as a particular color, sex, or personality, typical timing is 2 to 8 weeks. For rare colors or highly specific pairings, expect 6 to 12 months. Contact Luxury Only Kittens with your preferences and we will tell you what is available now versus what needs a waitlist.
What is included with my Bombay kitten purchase?
Every placement includes complete veterinary records, age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, negative FeLV/FIV screening, a written health guarantee, and a starter kit with food sample and blanket carrying mom scent. Lineage documentation and any registration papers vary by origin breeder and are shared with you before payment. Above all, Luxury Only Kittens is built on the match between family and kitten. We care equally that families receive a healthy, well-socialized kitten and that every kitten joins a family committed to caring for them for life.