Bombay

Size:

Grooming:

Exercise Level:

Trainability:

Good with Children:

Good with other pets:

Affectionate:

Weight: 3 - 5kg M | 3 - 5kg F

Life Expectancy: 15 - 20 Years

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Introduction

If you are looking for a dog disguised as a feline, the Bombay is the cat for you. Very affectionate, can walk on a lead, and likes to play fetch, this crossbreed is one beautiful and loyal animal companion. A relatively new breed, the Bombay is easy to groom, sheds minimally, and is wonderful for families.

Do you plan on getting a Bombay? Here is a brief background of this leopard resembling cat, nicknamed as “patent-leather kid with new-penny eyes” by the author of the book, The Ultimate Guide to Cat Breeds.

History

Contrary to its name, the Bombay originated in the US. Breeder Nikki Horner crossed a Burmese with a black American Shorthair cat, thus producing a sleek, black-coated feline. This was after two crossbreeding attempts, eventually producing the desired version in the mid-60s. She then named the new cat Bombay, which was a city in India that is now called Mumbai.

On the other hand, in Britain, the Burmese was crossed with black British Shorthair cats to produce the Bombay.

Later, in the 1970s, this cat was accepted as a championship breed, enabling this new type of domesticated feline to be shown at exhibitions. The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognised it in 1970. Then, in 1979, The International Cat Association acknowledged the breed. Other breeders discovered this beautiful animal and continued developing it.

Although it is still not recognised by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy, this cat’s popularity is growing. However, it remains an uncommon breed.

Appearance and Grooming

Weighing anywhere between 3.6 and 5.5 kg, the Bombay cat was bred to resemble the black panther. As such, it was called the “mini me” version of the wild cat.

Being a crossbreed, this feline has both traits of its parent breeds in varying degrees. Its sleek, compact, and medium-sized body is very much reminiscent of the Burmese. It is lean and muscular and, as such, is actually heavier than it looks. It has a rounded head, full face, and medium-sized ears that are slightly rounded at the tips. The slight forward tilt of its ears gives this animal an alert appearance. Its muzzle is a bit short, which puts it at risk for breathing issues.

Its large and round eyes are one of its most striking features, with some describing them as akin to “bright copper pennies”. The British Bombay cat tends to have golden or green eyes. The American variety is likely to have copper, orange, or gold-hued eyes.

The rest of its body includes an ample chest and legs that are proportionate to its body’s dimensions. Its tail tapers from its base and ends with a blunt tip. The Bombay’s feet are round, with black paw pads underneath.

The strikingly glossy, dark coat is short-haired and is jet black right to its roots. This breed’s coat colour does not reach its richest raven hue before it turns 2 years old.

Being a short-haired kitty, the Bombay is easy to groom and also does not shed much. As such, a weekly brushing is sufficient to keep its coat in good condition.

Temperament and Intelligence

The Bombay cat personality has been likened to Velcro. It forms a strong attachment to its humans and wants to keep it that way. As such, it is likely to be affected by separation anxiety as it cannot bear to be left alone for long periods. It loves people and wants to be constantly around his family.

This breed loves to be the centre of attention, with some being quite the vocal kitty. Affectionate and loving, it is known to jump on laps and even on reading materials its humans are occupied with. It also loves to snuggle with its human under the bed covers. It is dog-like in its ways in that it likes to play fetch and can be taught tricks. It can even enjoy walking on a lead if its human desires so, although it is not a high energy cat.

This feline is good with children and also with other pets. As such, it makes a wonderful family pet. But are Bombay cats smart? Like its Burmese parent, it is supremely curious and intelligent! As such, its keen brain should be challenged by mentally stimulating activities and toys.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Bombay should be provided a nutritious diet that fulfils its daily requirements. It should be consistently given the same meals following the same feeding schedule. If there are modifications to its diet, those must be done gradually to prevent gastrointestinal problems. The serving portions should depend on the cat’s weight, age, and activity level. Its diet must include at least 25% protein and just 5% carbohydrates.

Health and Exercise

Bombay cats are a robust breed whose lifespan ranges from 15-20 years. However, it can be affected by a number of hereditary health conditions and other issues like Burmese hypokalaemia, breathing difficulties (e.g. sinus problems), gingivitis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and watery eyes.

Control feeding as it overeats. This feline likes to eat more than it needs to. As such, its meal portions and feeding must be controlled to prevent obesity.

Bombay cats have low exercise needs. Exercise is normally achieved through an assortment of toys that make them run, such as a game of chase. Moderately active, Bombay cats like to engage in activities that involve physical and mental stimulation. Daily exercise of 10-15 minutes a few times a day can help them maintain their weight.

Cost of Ownership

The price of a healthy Bombay Cat is between £100–£500. The ideal diet for your cat is a high-quality cat food that contains all the nutrients her body requires. Its cost may range from £20–£55 every month.

Help your Bombay Cat feel at home by providing her with basic necessities including scratching posts, litter trays, and cat toys. The overall expenses may run up to £50–£400.

Vaccine shots necessary for protecting your Bombay Cat from contagious diseases may cost around £40–£100. Routine administration of parasite preventatives should be done to reduce your pet’s vulnerability to diseases. Set aside approximately £50–£60 for tick and flea treatments and £60–£120 for heartworm treatments.

Prepare to spend around £30–£60 for each vet check-up session. Vet expenses can skyrocket if your pet falls ill. Prevent medical bills from stacking up by acquiring pet insurance.

Opting for lifetime coverage will charge you approximately £6–£15 a month. If you prefer a time-limited coverage, over £10 will be added to your monthly expenses.

Bombay Breed Highlights

This dog-like, loving feline forms strong bonds with its owners and is good with children.
It cannot stand being left alone for long periods and tends to experience separation anxiety.
It sheds minimally and is easy to groom.
The Bombay loves attention and likes to have a lot of it.
Some Bombay kitties can be vocal.