Variety:
Bombay cat
Country of origin:
USA
Colours:
Black
Characteristics:
Intelligent, smart, quiet, calm, independent, friendly, gentle, self-confident, easy-going
Weight:
4-7 kg
Longevity:
years
Other names:
Bombay cat
In France, it is believed that the Bombay cat can help attract wealth and money, so those who believe in superstition are looking for financial success by purchasing a cat of this breed. Of course, not everyone believes in superstition, but it is simply impossible not to be fascinated by Bombay cats. They are very independent cats that are not too pushy or demanding. They are very organised and clever – they would certainly find a way to feed themselves if necessary. Bombay cats require very little maintenance, so they are suitable for even the busiest of people. You can be sure that a Bombay cat won’t follow you around demanding attention, because that’s just not for it.
History of the Passion
This is the only recognised breed of cat whose colour can only be black. The first Bombay cats appeared in America in 1953. A breeder of Burmese cats decided to experiment and crossed a Burmese cat with an American Shorthair. The kittens were born with the characteristics of both, but all the offspring were black. To this day, Bombay cats are crossed either with the same breed or with Burmese cats. Although Bombay cats must be black, there are rare exceptions in litters – the kittens born are sometimes golden or brownish in colour. Surprisingly, kittens of these unusual colours are bought much more quickly (usually these kittens cost more). Bombay cats are very popular in America because of their resemblance to a small panther. Although these cats have only one official name, they are sometimes called miniature panthers, black pearls or even witch cats. The breed is very rare in Europe, with a slightly larger number in France.
Bombay cat: appearance
Bombay cats don’t look big and bulky at first glance, but if you decide to pick up a cat like this, you’d be surprised – these cats weigh between 4 and 7 kilograms. One of the most fascinating features of this breed – is the large golden or copper-coloured eyes. The head of the Bombay cat is flat between the ears and round underneath. The muzzle is large and broad, the jaw broad, tapering at the joint. Ears medium-sized, with rounded tips. Legs of medium length, the hind legs slightly longer than the fore legs. Claws oval. Tail of medium length, tapering slightly towards the rear, with rounded tip. The coat of this breed is short and close-fitting, shiny. The only permitted coat colour is black (the same colour must be used for the nose and feet). The undercoat is not present in this breed, so the cat feeds very sparingly.
Bombay cat: character
Bombay cats are very confident and friendly. Although they value their independence, they are always very gentle with people. They are happy to interact not only with members of their own family, but also with guests. Children are often the best friends of Bombay cats, as they are the ones who usually find time to play. Sometimes they want to snuggle up to their owner, and sometimes they want to snooze in a secluded spot. Respecting a cat’s privacy is very important, and you certainly shouldn’t force a cat to interact when it doesn’t want to. Bombay cats can also get on well with other animals, but they do not regard small animals as friends but as prey. Keeping rodents and a Bombay cat in the same house can be very dangerous – the cat will certainly find a way to hunt down the prey that interests it.