History & Origin
Created in 1958 by Nikki Horner of Louisville, KY, who crossed sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs to produce a 'mini panther.' CFA recognition came in 1976.
Temperament & Personality
Affectionate, social, dog-like. Bombays follow humans everywhere and prefer to nap on a lap.
Health Watchouts
Top conditions reported by CFA/TICA parent clubs, AAFP, the Winn Feline Foundation, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.
Diabetes mellitus
Inherited from Burmese line — elevatedSame risk profile as Burmese.
Screening: Annual fructosamine; lean body weight
Burmese head defect
Carried from Burmese ancestryAvoid contemporary lines.
Screening: Pedigree review
Obesity
≈60% of indoor cats (AAHA)Excess weight increases risk of diabetes, arthritis, hepatic lipidosis and shortens lifespan by ~2 years.
Screening: Monthly body condition score (target 4–5/9); measure all food; structured play 2× daily
Periodontal disease
70%+ of cats by age 3Plaque hardens to tartar and inflames gums, leading to tooth loss and bacteremia.
Screening: Annual oral exam; daily brushing or VOHC-approved dental treats; professional cleaning every 1–2 years
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Breed-elevated riskThickening of the left ventricular heart wall — the most common heart disease in cats. Lower than other breeds; screen breeding stock.
Screening: Annual echocardiogram from a board-certified cardiologist; DNA test where available (Maine Coon, Ragdoll)
Enrichment & Play
Playful and lap-loving in equal measure.
- Cat trees
- Wand toys
- Puzzle feeders
- Clicker training
- Companion cat
Nutrition
Daily calories: Adult: 220–290 kcal/day.
Lean body weight critical for diabetes prevention.
Common allergens to watch: Fish.
⚠ Diabetes risk — keep BCS 4–5/9.
Grooming & Coat Care
Brush weekly with a chamois or rubber glove for that glossy 'panther' shine.
Cost of Ownership
Lifetime cost depends on lifespan, vet care, and litter/food choices. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →
Cost band for Bombay: medium.
Living Situation Fit
Excellent family cat; apartment-friendly.
Choosing a Kitten
Verify Burmese line for BHD risk. Pet-quality kittens $1,000–$1,500.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bombays just black Burmese?
Genetically very close — Bombays were created from Burmese × American Shorthair crosses to produce the glossy black phenotype. They share most Burmese health concerns.
