October 27, 2025 Back Home

A Basic Guide to Bombay Cats

Have you ever dreamed of having a tiny panther living in your home? If so, the Bombay cat is a dream come true. 

Bred to resemble the elegant Indian black panther, Bombay cats have a sleek, solid black coat and bright contrasting eyes. They’ve got the looks and the personality. These mini panthers love their humans and are always ready for playtime. 

Read on and learn about the Bombay’s history, personality, and fun facts about this unique breed.

The origin of the Bombay cat

They may look like timeless beauties but Bombay cats are actually a new cat breed. 

It started in the 1950s with teenage cat breeder Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky. She loved the sleek coats and contrasting eye colors of the Indian black panther, and determined they should also be available in a smaller, domesticated size.  

Her vision was a cat with a jet-black, velvety, short coat with golden/copper eyes. After many crossbreeding attempts, she finally found the perfect short-hair combination: Burmese and American Shorthair. The Bombay cat was born and named after an Indian city in honor of the Indian black panther. The city, Bombay, is now called Mumbai. 

In 1970, the Bombay cat was finally accepted into a championship competition. Satisfied that she had created the perfect cat, Horner stopped breeding cats. Luckily, other breeders were captivated by the Bombay so their legacy lives on. 

Not your average black cat

All Bombay cats are black, but not all black cats are Bombays. 

The medium-sized and muscular Bombay cat was bred specifically with beauty in mind. They might resemble your average black cat, but as you look closer, you’ll see that their noses, whiskers, and paw pads are also black. Black paws are a trait inherited from the Burmese cat. 

Bombays also have glossier fur than other black cats. They were specifically bred to have a distinct tight black coat contrasted by copper or golden colored eyes. 

Fun facts:

• Sometimes, a Bombay kitten is born with a white coat. But their coats will change to black during their first few months. 
• American Bombays can have copper eyes while British Bombays usually have green eyes. 

@newvisioncatclub When a cat is so beautiful it almost makes the judge cry. 𝐁𝐎𝐌𝐁𝐀𝐘. 𝐵𝑈𝑅𝑀𝐴𝑁𝐼𝐴 𝑃𝐸𝑃𝐼𝑁 𝑂𝐹 𝐸𝐿𝐸𝑆𝑆𝐴𝑅 Judge Vicki Nye. Championship final. #cfacatshow #bombaycat #bombay #blackcat #blackcatsoftiktok ♬ original sound – NewVisionCatClub

Extroverted lap cats

Bombay cats are a perfect mix of their ancestors, with an easy-going personality like the American Shorthair and the loving side of a Burmese.

They love to be in the company of their favorite humans, and will greet you and other visitors with loving enthusiasm as soon as you walk in the door. Bombays like to stay close to their humans, so expect them to be your shadow. They’ll cuddle up in your lap while you watch TV, circle your legs while you’re cooking, and even jump on your shoulder and stay there like a parrot. 

Bombays are social lap cats who will make their presence known. They are beautiful and they want you to know it and can be vocal if they aren’t getting the attention they deserve. 

They love everyone and are always up for playtime, making them a great pet for families with kids. They even get along with other pets as long as they are introduced properly. Since they are so social, Bombays thrive when they have a companion. Being alone for long periods of time can make Bombays unhappy. 

How to care for a Bombay cat

Being gorgeous is natural for a Bombay cat, so they don’t require much. All they need to stay sleek is an occasional bath and weekly brushing. And don’t forget to frequently compliment them on their beauty. 

One thing to keep an eye out for is their eating habits. They love their treats and snacks so they can become obese easily. Just avoid free feeding and serve their meals at the same times.

bombay Care Tips

• Grooming: Short coat is low-maintenance — brush once a week to remove loose hair.
• Activity: Play daily with toys or interactive games — Bombays are energetic and love attention.
• Health: Regular vet visits and vaccinations are essential.

Is a bombay cat best for You?

You betcha.

If you’re looking for a cat that’s sleek, affectionate, and full of personality, the Bombay might just steal your heart. Their glossy black coat, striking copper eyes, and playful, loving nature make them one of the most captivating companions in the cat world.

Whether you’re lounging on the couch, working from home, or simply want a loyal friend who’s always by your side, Bombays bring energy, curiosity, and affection to every moment.

Vital stats about Bombay cats

Trait	Details
Average Weight	8-15 pounds (males are bigger)
Height	8-10 inches
Length	13-20 inches
Lifespan	12-20 years
Origin	United States
Temperament	Extroverted, playful, and affectionate
Energy Level	Very energetic