Bombay Cat History
In 1953, Nikki Horner bred a solid black American Shorthair male to a sable Burmese female in attempts to create a copper-eyed black cat that resembled the black leopards of India. Eighteen years later, after much hard work and determination, the first Bombay championed with the CFA.
Bombay Cat Characteristics
The Bombay is jet black, sleek, shiny, and exotic, with amazing copper eyes. Being a hybrid of the Burmese and American Shorthair, the Bombay does have some characteristics of both parent breeds, but they also have their distinct characteristics. The Bombay is a solid, muscular, medium-length cat. Their head is rounded, with wide set eyes, and they have a sweet expression. Bombay eyes range from gold to copper, the more copper the better.
The Bombay’s ears are set wide apart and tilt forward slightly, and the tips of the ears should be slightly rounded. The Bombay nose should have a slight break when viewed from the side, but should not be pug nosed by any means. Their coat should be short with very fine, silky hairs. This lends to the glossy coat that they are known for. Overall, the Bombay should appear very well balanced
Bombay Cat Temperament
Bombay kitties are very smart and energetic and learn games and tricks easily. They are calm, friendly, and affectionate but prefer to be Top Cat around the house. Bombays will talk to you, some more so than others. They do like to be involved in whatever you are doing just because they enjoy your company. The Bombay is a very playful breed. If you are interested in a cat that will go on walks with you, the Bombay is often successfully leash trained!
Bombay Cat Health and Care
Bombays are very low maintenance cats, shedding very little even with the changing of the seasons. Occasional brushing is enjoyed, and bathing isn’t needed very often unless he’s going to be shown. Many breeders smooth and shine their Bombay with a chamois cloth. The Bombay has a healthy appetite, and their food should be high quality and monitored. Most can be free fed without getting overweight.
It is important to note that some Bombay bloodlines carry a genetic defect called Craniofacial Defect, which is a malformation of the skull. Many kittens have to be put down once they are born. If planning to breed Bombay cats, one must be prepared for and able to deal with this occurrence. Some say that the Australian Bombay doesn’t carry this genetic defect and are healthier cats. Though outcrossing is still allowed to Burmese and American Shorthairs, some registries no longer allow outcrossing to the American Shorthair.
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