Bombay

The Bombay cat owes its existence to the vision of Nikki Horner in the 1950s. Inspired by the image of a miniature panther, Horner embarked on a breeding program to create a Burmese cat with a striking black coat. Her meticulous work, which involved crossing a black American Shorthair with a Burmese, resulted in the Bombay we know today. While not as common in America, Bombay cats boast a devoted following who cherish their unique appearance and playful personality.

With their playful personality and affectionate nature, the Bombay cat breed thrives in a home filled with love and attention. Ideal owners for these social butterflies are those who enjoy an interactive feline companion. First-time cat owners don’t need to be intimidated either; the Bombay Cat’s outgoing and friendly personality makes them adaptable. However, their intelligence can lead to mischief, so a little patience and positive reinforcement training go a long way. Bombay owners should also embrace their cat's shadow-like tendencies. These curious felines love to follow their humans around, keeping a watchful eye on their every move.

These clever cats will quickly tire of the same old toys, so a variety of climbing structures, puzzles, and games are essential. Rotate their options regularly to prevent boredom and keep them engaged. Without adequate enrichment, your Bombay might resort to self-made entertainment, which can involve hiding your belongings or strategically knocking things off high shelves.

While Bombays can be happy indoors, their adventurous spirit would appreciate access to a secure outdoor space like a catio or fenced-in yard—and not just for sunbathing and exercise. Their playful nature enjoys the thrill of climbing, stalking leaves, and hiding in secret spots. However, they can be mistaken for a stray cat, so unsupervised outdoor access is best avoided.

The Bombay's short, sleek coat is relatively low maintenance. While they're self-sufficient groomers, a routine brushing can be a wonderful bonding experience.

The Bombay cat’s trainability extends beyond the typical feline repertoire. With patience, Bombay kittens and cats can be leash-trained and even learn tricks.

This affectionate and agreeable breed thrives in families with children, other pets, and even first-time cat owners. Their loyalty extends to the whole household, not just one person.

The cost of a Bombay from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.