shorthair

Bombay

Origin: Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Bred to resemble a miniature black panther, the Bombay is a loving, playful companion. Their jet-black patent-leather coat and copper-gold eyes create a striking, exotic appearance.

Origin: Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Category: shorthair
Lifespan: 12–16 yrs
Size: Medium
Weight: 2.7–5.4 kg
Coat: Short, fine, jet-black, patent-leather sheen
Colours: Black only (nose, paw pads and coat all black)

😺 Temperament

AffectionatePlayfulVocalSocial

🏡 Best suited to

Apartment livingFamiliesFirst-time ownersMulti-pet homes

📊 Personality ratings

Activity level 3/5

Grooming needs 1/5

Friendliness 5/5

Vocality 3/5

Intelligence 4/5

📜 History & origin

The Bombay was created in the 1950s by breeder Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky, who wanted a cat with the look of a black panther. She crossed Sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs over several generations. The CFA recognised the breed in 1978. The name 'Bombay' refers to the city in India (now Mumbai), home of the black leopard.

🧼 Care & grooming

The easiest coat to maintain — a weekly wipe with a chamois brings out the patent-leather shine. They thrive on human company and do not like being alone. Bombays are heat-seeking missiles — they will find the warmest spot in the house, often your lap. Interactive play keeps them mentally stimulated.

🩺 Health notes

Shares Burmese health concerns: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Cranial Deformities in some lines (from Burmese ancestry). Generally a healthy breed with few widespread conditions. Their short muzzle can cause mild breathing issues in extreme heat. Dental disease should be monitored.

Fun fact: Bombays are bred to look like miniature black panthers — their name comes from Bombay (Mumbai), India, the home of the Indian black leopard.