Bombay
Overview
Bred in 1950s America to resemble a miniature black panther by crossing Burmese and black American Shorthairs, the Bombay is a sleek, affectionate and intensely people-loving cat. Sociable and playful. It suits homes that are around a good deal and want a devoted, easy-care companion — Bombays crave company and can be vocal and attention-seeking when ignored.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Bombay is devoted lap cat and excellent with children of all ages. They tend to be moderately chatty and prefers company most of the day. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A Bombay is generally moderate energy. They enjoy a healthy mix of play and rest; a couple of short play sessions a day keeps them happy.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is wash-and-go and shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Bombay should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Affectionate, sociable and great with families
- +Sleek, easy-care coat
Things to consider
- –Craves company and dislikes being left alone
- –Can be vocal and attention-seeking
Is a Bombay right for you?
A Bombay tends to be prefers company most of the day and devoted lap cat. That makes them best suited to a home where they won’t be left alone for long stretches — a companion cat or a busier household can help. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Bombay
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Bombays good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are Bombays affectionate?
Devoted lap cat. Bombays typically love close company and lap time.
Are Bombays vocal?
Moderately chatty. They are moderately chatty.
How much grooming does a Bombay need?
Wash-and-go; shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Bombays be left alone?
Prefers company most of the day. They strongly prefer company and can become stressed or lonely if left for long periods — a feline companion or a less empty house suits them better.
Are Bombays energetic or playful?
Moderate energy. They enjoy a good mix of play and rest.