Bombay Cat Breed

Bombay cats live 12 to 16 years. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the primary hereditary heart concern so cardiac testing of breeding cats matters. Cranial deformities and breathing difficulties related to their slightly shortened face can occur. Excessive tearing from their eye structure is common and usually harmless. Annual vet visits with cardiac evaluation protect long term health.

Your Bombay has a short, patent leather black coat that practically polishes itself. Brush once a week with a rubber grooming mitt to remove loose hair and add shine. Bathe only occasionally. Clean ears monthly, trim nails every two weeks, and brush teeth regularly. This is one of the easiest coats to maintain of any cat breed.

Bombay cats are playful and curious throughout their life. Provide daily interactive play sessions with wand toys and puzzle feeders. They enjoy climbing and exploring. Two play sessions daily of ten to fifteen minutes each keeps most Bombays content. They also enjoy learning tricks and engaging games with their owner.

The Bombay is intelligent, people oriented, and one of the more trainable cat breeds. They respond well to treat rewards and pick up tricks, leash walking, and their own name quickly. They like being included in daily activities and follow their owners from room to room. Socialize kittens early with various people and environments.

Feed a quality protein rich diet with wet food as the primary component and dry food as a supplement. Two measured meals daily prevent the weight gain this breed can be prone to. Choose foods with real meat as the first ingredient. Always provide fresh water and avoid foods heavy in corn, wheat, or soy.

Nikki Horner, a breeder in Louisville, Kentucky, created the Bombay in the 1950s by crossing sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs. Her goal was a cat that looked like a miniature black panther. The breed was named after the Indian city of Bombay to reflect its exotic, panther like appearance. The CFA recognized the Bombay in 1978. Today it remains a striking, people loving companion prized for its glossy black coat and golden copper eyes.