The Bombay, an elegant miniature panther with piercing eyes.
The Bombay, a Living Room Panther
The Bombay is a cat breed created to resemble a miniature panther, hence its nickname. It is recognizable by its short, dense, jet-black coat, its large and expressive eyes, often copper or gold in color. Its silhouette is elegant and muscular, with a fluid and graceful gait. It is the result of a deliberate cross between the American Burmese and the black American Shorthair.
This feline is appreciated for its exceptionally sweet, affectionate, and social temperament. It is a devoted companion that loves to interact with its family, making it an excellent family cat.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 15, 2025.
My personal tip : The Bombay's short, glossy coat is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a soft brush or grooming mitt is sufficient to keep it in perfect condition. This is an intelligent and playful cat that needs a lot of attention and stimulation. Offer interactive toys and regular play sessions to satisfy its curiosity. The Bombay is very social and does not tolerate loneliness. It will thrive in a home where it receives plenty of affection and can participate in family life.
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Identifying the Bombay: Characteristics of its Black Appearance
The Bombay is distinguished by its lustrous black coat and copper eyes.
The Bombay is a medium-sized cat, robust and muscular, with a compact and graceful appearance.
Size: Medium-sized cat, with a compact, muscular, and elegant body.
Coat: Short, dense, fine, smooth, and glossy, of a deep and uniform jet black, from root to tip.
Head: Round, with a broad forehead, full cheeks, and a short muzzle.
Eyes: Large, round, well-spaced, of an intense copper or gold color (yellow is not ideal). The deeper the color, the better.
Ears: Medium-sized, broad at the base, slightly rounded at the tips, well-spaced.
Tail: Medium-long, thick at the base and tapering slightly, carried straight.
Dimensions and Key Information (Bombay)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
25 – 30 cm
20 – 25 cm
20 – 30 cm
Weight
4 – 6 kg
3 – 4.5 kg
3 – 6 kg
Life Expectancy
12 – 18 years
12 – 18 years
12 – 18 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-6
These figures indicate that the Bombay is a medium-sized cat with a potentially long life expectancy, and its growth is completed around 1 year of age.
Behavior: The Affectionate and Playful Mini-Panther
The Bombay is a strikingly elegant cat breed, often nicknamed the "mini-panther" due to its short, jet-black, lustrous coat and round, usually copper or gold-colored eyes. Developed from the Burmese and the American Shorthair, the Bombay is a cat with a remarkably affectionate, intelligent, and very sociable temperament. It is a devoted companion that loves human company and constantly seeks attention.
Bombays are playful cats who retain a youthful energy throughout their lives. They enjoy interactive games, toy hunts, and can even learn tricks or walk on a leash. Very curious, they explore their environment with enthusiasm. Despite their wild look, they are infinitely gentle and love to snuggle up to their owners, making them perfect "lap cats." Their meow is soft and melodic, less powerful than that of some Oriental breeds.
The Bombay gets along wonderfully with children, other cats, and dogs, easily adapting to family life. It does not appreciate prolonged solitude and prefers to have company. If you are drawn to an elegant, intelligent, very affectionate cat with a unique look, the Bombay is an excellent choice. For those who appreciate the sleek silhouette and keen intelligence of Oriental breeds, the Oriental or the Tonkinese offer communicative and endearing personalities. The Korat, with its blue-grey coat, also shares great loyalty and an appealing gentleness.
Origin and History
The history of the Bombay began in the 1950s in the United States, thanks to breeder Nikki Horner of Kentucky. Her goal was to create a cat that resembled a small black panther. To do this, she crossed a black Burmese (for its black coat and personality) with a black American Shorthair (for its robust stature and copper eyes).
After several generations of selective breeding, the Bombay breed was developed and gained recognition from the CFA in 1976 and TICA in 1979. The name 'Bombay' was chosen in reference to the city of Bombay (now Mumbai) in India, home of the black panther. The Bombay continues to be appreciated for its striking appearance and affectionate character.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Bombay
Why is the Bombay nicknamed the 'miniature panther'?
The Bombay is nicknamed the 'miniature panther' because of its jet-black coat and its elegant, muscular appearance that resembles a black panther, but in a domestic size.
What is the temperament of the Bombay?
It is a very affectionate, social, intelligent, and playful cat. It is known for its attachment to its family and loves to be the center of attention and cuddles.
Is the Bombay easy to groom?
Yes, its short, dense, and glossy coat requires little grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to maintain its beauty.
Does the Bombay get along well with children and other pets?
Yes, thanks to its sweet and tolerant temperament, the Bombay generally gets along very well with respectful children and other pets.
Are the Bombay's eyes always golden?
The Bombay's eyes are an intense copper or gold color. Although kittens are often born with blue eyes, the golden or copper color develops with age.
