Do you like jet-black cats? People do associate various superstitions with it, still, it is very special. One of the most valued categories of jet black and glossy cats is Bombay cats. However, several black cats might not be Bombay cats! So, how to identify a Bombay cat from a generic feline? When you carefully examine cats, you should keep in mind that appearance is not the only thing that confirms its origin. Bombay cats brag a unique character.
The History
A fairly rare breed, the Bombay cat was created during the 1950s by a Kentucky-origin breeder. He mated Burmese cat with black American shorthair.Bombay cats enjoy a “breed championship” status by the Cat Fanciers Association Inc.Though there are several black cats, only a few can be considered as true Bombay cats.
The Appearance
The perfect Bombay cat bears a resemblance to a mini panther. Though male cats are bigger than the female version. The male cat matures at 12 pounds’ weight while the females weigh 8-12 pounds when they reach maturity age. The basic features of Bombay cats include a circular and short-nosed head. A signature trait of Bombay cats is the infamous and striking Bombay cat green eyes, while others also feature huge and circular copper or gold-colored eyes.
They have a big-boned,beefy,and compact body structure. A Bombay cat’s physique tends to gain weight if the cat eats more than required or does not exercise. So, you should always keep your cat busy with activities.
The Personality
Bombay cats are not only distinguished from their unique color but also their distinct personality traits. This energetic feline, and a category of cat that dog lovers will enjoy. This is why they have many canine-type features like a penchant for leash training, playing fetch, and an outbound and loving temperament. Generally, a Bombay cat is not a standoffish or “fraidy” cat. He normally likes other cats, and eagerly plays with children, and enjoys dog company.
The Health
A majority of thoroughbred animals are inclined to some health issues. So, for Bombay cats, the possible health issues may encompass cardiac issues, particularly heart muscle thickening or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Bombay cats with remarkably petite noses may exhibit breathing issues, so it is always a good idea to keep an air-conditioned space during summers.
Bombay Cat vs Siamese Cat
Siamese cat is a popular breed. The reason is that it is a marvelous companion for individuals, families, oldies, children, and even couples. Another great thing about the Siamese cat is that it gets along well with other pets also. This energetic cat might not enjoy lying around day after day. So, he would want to play and exercise with you. So, they demand a stimulating environment. Besides, these are affectionate cats, so they can’t survive without love and care. So, it can be regarded as an ideal companion or friend.
On the contrary, Bombay cats are panther-like felines that are an ideal choice if you are looking for a cat who loves its human caretakers. As every cat has its peculiarities, so these Bombay cats prefer heat. So, their favorite place is near a fire or heater. While on a sunny day, they would love to sit in the sunshine. So, if you offer Bombay cats a favorable environment, they will prove to be a remarkable companion.
Bombay Cat Vs Wild Cat
Did you know that Bombay cats have a wild side? Just like Savannah or Bengal cat, the Bombay cat was bred to fabricate a domestic feline with a wild appearance. So, their wild and influential appearance has awarded them popular nicknames like “mini-panther” or “parlor panther”.
On the contrary, wildcats usually feature a grey-brown appearance with wild nails. Also, a well-defined black stripes pattern covers their entire body. However, their fur is short and soft. While their color resembles a tabby domestic cat, and camouflage them in timbered habitations.
Bombay Cat vs AbyssinianCat
Bombay cats are usually medium-sized cats that feature shorthair, deep black glossy color, green or copper-colored eyes, and muscular physique. The cat weighs between three to seven kg. The exclusive thing about Bombay cats is its nose and paws are also black.
When we review its personality, it is quite social and gets along well with humans. All they need is some care and attention. Also, these cats hate to stay alone for long periods. However, they adapt well to diverse lifestyles and can easily learn new trickeries. They love playing with toys and use loud sounds to voice their feelings.
On the other hand, an Abyssinian cat is a slim, supple, fine-bones, and medium-sized cat featuring short and medium-length hair with long and meager legs. Their fur features a unique ticked appearance and is available in many colors. However, the base color is glossy reddish-brown with black marks.
It usually grows to a height of 20 – 25 cm, and a length of 30 – 41 cm. Also, an adult Abyssinian weighs almost 4 – 5 kg. So, with good care, your Abyssinian cat can live for up to 13 years.
Is My Black Cat a Bombay Cat?
As mentioned above, Bombay cats are completely black. However, not all black cats fall under the category of Bombay cats. The reason is that not only the black color can determine a cat’s origin of the breed. Instead, Bombay cats, similar to other breeding lines have the same breed lineages or have a forebear that includes crossbreeding to attain breed standard. Here is when the Bombay Cats history becomes appealing.
In 1953, a female Nikki Horner created a new cat breed in Louisville, Kentucky. She cross-bred two cats: black American Shorthair and Burmese female to get a third species. In this situation, she was determined to refabricate copper-colored eyes, shiny black coat, and sturdy-yet- graceful mountof an Indian black panther, but in tiny form.
So, by the 1960s, Nikki’s cats were steady carriers of the original characteristics for which they are popular today, which include full black appearance. Its complete black appearance and striking eyes made the Cat Fancier’s Association(the world’s largest cat breed registry) define it as a “manifest leather kid with new penny eyes”.
The majority of people have reported that the Bombay cat breed is devoted, loving, and prefers dog-like recreational activities.
Apart from the American Bombay (that features Bombay-to-Bombay breed, or Bombay-to-Burmese breed), a British Bombay version rears Burmese to British Shorthair.
Bombay Cats vs Aegean Cats
Bombay cats’ features have been described above. However, Aegean cats are fine, sporty, medium-sized cats with fairly long hair. It weighs almost 4.5 – 5 Kg and grows to a height of 21 cm to 25 cm. If you wish to keep it as a pet, you must know that it usually sheds during summer and spring, and if they are indoor cats they are likely to shed all year round.
Aegean cat coats feature two or three colors, while white always remains the primary color, and takes up more area on the coat than others. However, other contrasting colors in the pattern can be grey, orange, or black.
Moreover, the Aegean cat features a long and bushy tail, wide-base large ears, that are curved at the top. While its head is broad, it has almond-shaped eyes that can be either green, blue, or yellow-colored.
Diet
When you purchase food for your cats, always choose fresh items and serve them with cool water. Moreover, these cat breeds prefer high-quality and nutrient-rich food.
Grooming
If you own a cat, you should regularly brush its hair (whether short or long-haired). Though, the Aegean cat is a modest shedder. But if you adopt this grooming practice in the early stages, it will help strengthen your bond with the pet. You should keep your cat’s surroundings clean. While neuter or spay can help prevent undesirable kittens.
Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks can cover your cats, so you must talk to your vet regarding this problem. They will suggest some useful products. However, you can also use a flea and tick collar but will need to be changed frequently.
Vaccines
Every cat requires vaccination to remain safe from life-threatening diseases. Some diseases found in Aegean cats include feline leukemia virus, feline infectious enteritis, and cat flu. While the first vaccines are neededwhen your cat is 2 months old.Sometimes, you might also have to get your cats vaccinated for rabies. However, it depends on where you reside. So, to maintain immunity, regular shots will be needed.
Can Bombay Cats Have White On Them?
The Bombay cat is a short-hair breed domestic cat that is closely associated with the Burmese. While American Bombay cats feature copper or golden eyes with a jet-black color. Rarely, a Bombay kitten might be born sable colored, or feature some white spots on the chest, ears, or tail. It is only due to its relation to the Burmese species.