Also called Parlor Panther, Asian Self (black), UK type
Recognised breedDeep profile
From United States (Louisville, Kentucky), from sable Burmese x black American Shorthair crosses; a separate British type, the black Asian Self, came from Burmese x black domestic shorthair matings123
Wikipedia gives males 3.5-5 kg and females 2.5-3.5 kg; PetMD gives 7-12 lb (3.2-5.4 kg) overall; Hill's says males can exceed 12 lb. Known for feeling heavier than they look.
A compact, muscular cat that surprises people with its weight when lifted. Nearly everything about it is rounded: the head, ear tips, chin, feet and the large eyes, which shine gold to deep copper against the coat. The short, satiny coat is black right to the roots and has a high gloss often compared to patent leather, and the nose leather, paw pads and whiskers are black too.12354
Bombays are warm, outgoing cats that want to be where their people are, often greeting visitors as though the guests came just to see them. They mix the easygoing nature of the American Shorthair with the curiosity of the Burmese, happily taking over laps, shoulders and beds. CFA sums them up as part cat, part dog and part clown.1245
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Kittens and young adults are busy and inquisitive, while mature cats become calmer and like to watch from a perch. They still enjoy daily interactive play, climbing and jumping, and many love to fetch.154
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Very easy care. Shedding is light to moderate; a rubber curry brush or soft brush every week or two keeps the coat gleaming, with occasional baths if needed. Expect a little more shedding in spring and autumn.214
Home where they are happiest
Settles well as an indoor cat. Offer cat trees, window perches for watching the world and a range of interactive toys.35
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced cat food suited to life stage, fed in measured meals about twice a day rather than free-feeding, with fresh water always available. Keep an eye on portions if the cat is not very active.45
Company who they like around
Strongly attached to its family and not happy being left alone for long. Generally good with children and friendly with guests.143
The story where it all began
The Bombay was created by Nikki Horner, a breeder from Louisville, Kentucky, who wanted a small domestic cat that looked like the black leopard of India. She began crossing sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs in the 1950s (TICA says 1953, other sources 1958), and after early attempts that did not work out, her programme succeeded from 1965. The name nods to the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai) and the black leopards of the region. CFA accepted the breed for registration in 1970 and granted championship in 1976, and TICA followed with championship status in 1979, helped along by breeders Herb and Suzanne Zwecker. In Britain a similar-looking black cat developed separately from Burmese and black shorthair matings and is shown as the black Asian Self. The breed has remained uncommon.12356
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed has been nicknamed 'the patent-leather kid with the new-penny eyes'.1
2
Its walk has a slight sway, which is said to mimic the gait of a black leopard.5
I greet every visitor like a long-lost friend, weaving between legs for chin scratches. After a breakfast of kibble, I chase a toy mouse across the floor and leap onto the couch for a morning cuddle. I perch on the windowsill, chirping at birds, then curl on my human's shoulder for a nap. At night, I fetch a crumpled paper ball, sliding on the hardwood like a clown. I'm part cat, part dog, and all love.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Accepted for registration in 1970, championship status in 19762
Popularity Rare: FIFe registered only 13 Bombay kittens in 2024, under 0.1% of its registrations3
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Bombay. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayAbout 30 minutes of play a dayevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Bombay tip
For Bombay cats, choose treats that are low in calories and high in protein, and always account for them within their daily calorie allowance to avoid weight gain. Offer dental treats or crunchy snacks to help with dental hygiene, but keep treats to no more than 10-15% of daily calories.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Bombay, and at what times?
Feed your Bombay twice a day with measured meals of complete cat food suited to its age. Consistent times help keep your cat happy and healthy.45
What should a Bombay eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Your Bombay should eat a complete and balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these can be harmful.458
Does a Bombay need baths?
Your Bombay rarely needs a bath, only when it gets very dirty or sticky. Its short glossy coat stays clean with regular brushing.2149
How often does a Bombay need brushing?
Brush your Bombay once a week or every two weeks with a rubber curry brush or soft brush. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing to keep the coat gleaming.214Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Bombay's claws, and how often?
Trim your Bombay's claws every few weeks using proper cat nail clippers. Start with just one or two claws per session and go slowly to keep your cat comfortable.9Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Bombay need?
Your Bombay needs about 30 minutes of interactive play each day. They love to fetch, climb, and jump, so keep playtime fun and engaging.154Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Bombay's teeth and ears?
Brush your Bombay's teeth daily if possible, or at least every two days as Furry Diary suggests. For ears, ask your vet about the best cleaning routine since it varies by cat. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Bombay live?
Your Bombay can live a long life, typically between 9 and 20 years. With good care, many enjoy a healthy lifespan.1453
Is a Bombay good with children and other pets?
Your Bombay is generally good with children and friendly with guests. They usually get along well with other pets when introduced properly.143
Can a Bombay be left alone?
Your Bombay is very attached to its family and does not like being left alone for long. They thrive with company and may become unhappy if isolated.143
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Burmese
American Shorthair
Asian
Havana Brown