Background: The Bombay cat was developed in the 1950s by American breeder Nikki Horner, who sought to create a domestic cat resembling a wild panther. By crossing Burmese cats with black American Shorthairs, she achieved a breed that combined exotic beauty with an easygoing, affectionate temperament. Officially recognised by cat associations in the 1970s, Bombay cats have since gained worldwide admiration for their unique appearance and loving nature.

Appearance: Bombay cats are often described as “parlour panthers” due to their jet-black coats and lithe, muscular bodies. Their fur is short, fine, and glossy, often compared to the sheen of patent leather. Their large, round eyes, which range from deep copper to gold, provide a stunning contrast against their dark coats. This breed’s symmetrical features and sleek silhouette make them truly unforgettable.

Physical Characteristics: Bombays are medium-sized cats with a strong, muscular build. Males typically weigh between 3.6 to 6.8 kg, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 2.7 to 5.4 kg. They have a rounded head with a short muzzle and a broad nose. Their ears are medium-sized, rounded at the tips, and set wide apart, adding to their balanced and harmonious appearance.

Temperament: Affectionate and social, Bombays are known for their “velcro cat” tendencies, as they love staying close to their human companions. They thrive on attention and enjoy being involved in family activities, often following their owners from room to room. Despite their love of companionship, they are gentle and patient, making them a great choice for families with children or other pets.

Activity Level: Bombay cats have a moderate activity level. While they enjoy bursts of playtime and are curious explorers, they also relish relaxing in sunny spots or curling up on their owner’s lap. Interactive toys, climbing trees, and puzzle feeders are excellent for keeping them engaged and stimulated.

Health: Bombay cats are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain conditions. Some Bombays may inherit respiratory issues due to their slightly flattened noses, which can cause breathing difficulties in hot or humid conditions. Additionally, they may be at risk for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and close observation for any signs of discomfort or illness can help ensure a long and healthy life.

Lifespan: With proper care, Bombay cats typically live 12–16 years, with some even reaching their late teens. Providing them with a loving home, regular veterinary care, and a nutritious diet can contribute to a long and happy life for your Bombay companion.

Grooming is a vital part of keeping your Bombay cat healthy and looking their best. While Bombays are known for their low-maintenance coats, regular grooming ensures their skin and fur stay in top condition, while also allowing you to check for any potential health issues. Proper grooming also includes attention to their dental health, ears, and nails.

Grooming Requirements: Bombay cats have sleek, short coats that require minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt helps remove loose hairs, reduce shedding, and distribute natural oils to keep their coats shiny and healthy. Since Bombays don’t shed excessively, grooming sessions are quick and easy, often serving as an enjoyable bonding experience.

Bathing: Bathing a Bombay is rarely necessary unless they get into something messy or develop an oily coat. When a bath is required, use a cat-specific, gentle shampoo to protect their skin's natural balance. Always rinse thoroughly to avoid residue and dry your Bombay with a soft towel. If they are not accustomed to bathing, introduce it slowly and use positive reinforcement to keep the experience stress-free.

Skin Requirements: Bombays generally have healthy skin, but their short fur means any skin issues are more noticeable. Keep an eye out for dryness, irritation, or redness, which could indicate allergies or other underlying issues. Ensuring they eat a balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids can help maintain healthy, supple skin. If you notice persistent skin problems, consult a veterinarian promptly.

Dental Care: Dental hygiene is crucial for Bombays, as they are prone to tartar buildup and gum disease. Brush their teeth at least once a week using cat-safe toothpaste and a soft toothbrush or finger brush. Dental treats and toys can supplement brushing by helping to remove plaque. Regular dental check-ups during vet visits can catch potential issues early.

Clean Ears: Bombay cats' ears are medium-sized and upright, making them less prone to ear infections than breeds with folded ears. However, it’s important to check their ears weekly for any signs of dirt, wax buildup, or redness. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and a soft cotton pad to gently clean the outer ear. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent injury.

Nail Trimming: Trimming your Bombay’s nails every 2–3 weeks prevents overgrowth and keeps their claws healthy. Use a cat-specific nail trimmer and ensure you avoid cutting into the quick, which can cause pain and bleeding. Providing scratching posts or boards can also help maintain their nails between trimmings and satisfy their natural urge to scratch.

Bombay cats are generally healthy, but they can face certain health challenges. Being aware of these potential issues can help you provide the best care for your pet and address concerns promptly with your veterinarian.

Respiratory Issues: Due to their slightly flattened noses, Bombays can experience respiratory difficulties, especially in hot, humid environments. This condition, called brachycephaly, may cause snoring or noisy breathing. Ensuring they stay cool and avoid stress or overexertion can help minimise these symptoms.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is a common heart condition in cats, including Bombays. This disease thickens the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Symptoms include lethargy, difficulty breathing, and fainting. While there is no cure, early detection and management through medication and lifestyle adjustments can improve your cat’s quality of life.

Obesity: Bombays are prone to gaining weight if their diet isn’t monitored carefully. Obesity can lead to a range of other health issues, including diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. Feeding your Bombay portion-controlled meals and encouraging regular exercise are essential to keeping them at a healthy weight.

Dental Disease: Bombay cats can develop dental issues like gingivitis and tartar buildup, leading to pain, difficulty eating, and potential tooth loss. Regular brushing, dental treats, and routine vet check-ups can prevent these problems from escalating.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Although less common, PKD can affect Bombay cats. This hereditary condition causes cysts to develop in the kidneys, leading to kidney dysfunction over time. Symptoms include increased thirst, weight loss, and frequent urination. Regular bloodwork and early diagnosis can help manage the condition and slow its progression.

Allergies: Bombays can be prone to food or environmental allergies, which may manifest as itchy skin, digestive upset, or sneezing. Identifying and avoiding the allergen, along with veterinary-prescribed treatments, can help keep your Bombay comfortable.

By being proactive and attentive to your Bombay cat’s health, you can help ensure they live a long, happy, and vibrant life. Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss training tips to bring out the best in your Bombay!

Training a Bombay cat is both rewarding and enjoyable due to their high intelligence and desire to please. While cats are often thought of as less trainable than dogs, Bombays challenge this notion with their ability to quickly learn commands, tricks, and household rules. The key to success lies in positive reinforcement and consistency.

Start Early and Be Consistent: Bombay kittens are particularly receptive to training, so start as early as possible to establish good habits. Begin with simple commands like "sit," "come," or "stay." Use a consistent cue for each command and repeat it in a calm tone of voice. Short, regular training sessions are most effective, as cats can become bored or distracted if sessions last too long.

Use Treats and Incentives: Positive reinforcement is the cornerstone of training a Bombay cat. Reward desired behaviour with high-value treats, praise, or playtime. Treats should be small and enticing, such as freeze-dried chicken or soft cat treats. Timing is critical—offer the reward immediately after your cat performs the desired action so they associate the behaviour with the positive outcome.

Clicker Training: Clicker training is an effective method for teaching Bombay's tricks and commands. A clicker makes a distinct sound that signals to your cat they’ve done something right. Start by “loading” the clicker—click it, then immediately give your cat a treat. Once they associate the sound with rewards, you can use the clicker to mark the moment they perform a desired behaviour.

Addressing Unwanted Behaviours: If your Bombay displays undesirable behaviours, such as scratching furniture or jumping on counters, redirect them to an appropriate activity rather than punishing them. For instance, provide a scratching post or mat near the furniture they’ve been scratching and encourage its use with catnip or treats.

Keeping your Bombay cat active is essential for their physical health and mental stimulation. These intelligent and playful cats thrive on engagement, so providing a variety of activities ensures they stay happy and well-exercised.

Interactive Play: Interactive toys like wand toys and feather teasers are excellent for engaging your Bombay’s hunting instincts. Schedule 15–20 minutes of playtime twice a day to help them burn off energy and bond with you.

Playing Fetch: Many Bombay cats enjoy playing fetch, a behaviour more commonly associated with dogs. Toss a small ball, toy, or crinkly object, and your Bombay may surprise you by bringing it back! Use treats or praise to encourage this playful activity and make it a regular part of their routine.

Scratching Posts and Cat Trees: Provide scratching posts or boards to satisfy your Bombay’s natural urge to scratch while protecting your furniture. Cat trees with multiple levels offer both scratching surfaces and opportunities for climbing, which Bombays love.

Puzzle Toys: Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys are perfect for Bombays, as they combine mental stimulation with a reward. These toys challenge your cat to use their problem-solving skills, keeping them entertained for extended periods.

Window Watching: Set up a perch or cat bed near a window to allow your Bombay to watch birds, squirrels, and other outdoor activities. This simple activity can provide hours of entertainment and stimulation.

Exploring New Spaces: Bombays are curious by nature, so create safe areas for exploration. Rotate their toys and introduce new ones periodically to keep their environment exciting. You can also set up cardboard boxes, tunnels, or cat tents to pique their curiosity.

By incorporating these activities into your Bombay’s daily routine, you’ll ensure they remain happy, healthy, and engaged, strengthening the bond you share with your feline companion. Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss behavioural challenges and how to manage them effectively!

Bombay cats are known for their affectionate and social nature, but like all breeds, they can sometimes exhibit behavioural issues. These behaviours often stem from unmet needs, stress, or changes in their environment. Fortunately, with patience and understanding, most problems can be managed effectively, ensuring your Bombay remains a happy and well-adjusted companion.

Excessive Vocalisation: Bombay cats are naturally chatty, and their soft, sweet voices often make communication endearing. However, excessive meowing can signal boredom, hunger, or a desire for attention. If your Bombay becomes too vocal, first ensure their basic needs—food, water, and a clean litter box—are met. If these are not the issue, increase interactive playtime and provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys. Avoid rewarding excessive meowing with immediate attention, as this can reinforce the behaviour.

Destructive Scratching: Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, allowing them to stretch, mark territory, and keep their claws healthy. However, if your Bombay targets furniture or other undesirable items, it can become a problem. Redirect their scratching to a designated post or scratching pad. Choose posts made of materials they enjoy, such as sisal or cardboard, and place them in areas your cat frequents. Reward your cat when they use the scratching post to reinforce the behaviour.

Separation Anxiety: Bombay cats form strong bonds with their owners and may experience separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Symptoms include excessive meowing, destructive behaviour, or inappropriate elimination. To reduce anxiety, provide toys, scratching posts, and cozy hiding spots to keep them entertained. Gradually increase the time they spend alone to help them adjust, and consider using calming products like pheromone diffusers if needed.

Territorial Behaviour: Bombay’s can be territorial, especially in multi-pet households. This behaviour may manifest as hissing, growling, or swatting at other animals. To prevent conflicts, introduce new pets slowly and ensure each animal has their own space, litter box, and feeding area. Positive reinforcement and patience are key to helping your Bombay adjust to sharing their home.

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of your Bombay cat. Their diet should support their active lifestyle, glossy coat, and overall well-being. By tailoring their meals to their life stage and specific needs, you can ensure they thrive at every age.

General Nutrition Needs: Bombays require a diet rich in high-quality protein to support their muscular build and energy levels. Look for cat food with animal proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient. Essential fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, help maintain their sleek coat and healthy skin. Carbohydrates should be limited, as cats are obligate carnivores and rely primarily on protein and fats for energy.

Hydration is equally important, especially since Bombays can be prone to urinary issues. Incorporating wet food into their diet helps ensure they stay hydrated, especially if they don’t drink much water on their own.

Kitten Nutrition Needs: Bombay kittens grow rapidly and require a diet specifically formulated for kittens to meet their developmental needs. Kitten food is higher in calories, protein, and essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus to support their growing bones and muscles. Feed your Bombay kitten three to four small meals daily until they are about six months old, gradually transitioning to two meals per day as they mature.

When transitioning from their mother’s milk or a breeder’s formula, introduce solid food slowly, mixing it with water or kitten milk replacer to create a soft consistency.

Specific Nutritional Needs: As Bombays age, their nutritional needs may change. Adult cats should be fed a balanced diet tailored to their activity level and weight. Monitor portion sizes carefully to avoid overfeeding, as Bombays can be prone to obesity.

If your Bombay has specific health issues, such as allergies or a sensitive stomach, consult your veterinarian for guidance. Prescription diets or limited-ingredient foods may be recommended.

Senior Bombays (ages seven and up) may benefit from a diet lower in calories but higher in easily digestible protein. Supplements like glucosamine can also support joint health in older cats.

By understanding and addressing the behavioural and nutritional needs of your Bombay cat, you can ensure they lead a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. With their affectionate nature and captivating looks, these "parlour panthers" are sure to be cherished members of your family.

Whether you already own a Bombay or are considering bringing one home, we hope this guide has offered helpful insights into their care and unique needs. Keep exploring trusted resources and sharing experiences with other owners to ensure your Bombay stays happy and healthy. With love and attention, your Bombay will thrive as a cherished member of your family.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe