How to Identify a Bombay Cat

Co-authored by Lauren Baker, DVM, PhD

Last Updated: February 9, 2022 References Approved

The Bombay cat is a domestic house cat with the look of a small panther. Due to its background, the Bombay shares characteristics with both American Shorthairs and the Burmese, but it also has characteristics all its own. Its personality is also a blend of the two cats, being both sociable and energetically curious. When identifying one of these cats, first look for the black fur and copper eyes.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Looking for Defining Characteristics

1
Check for shiny, black fur. One of the main characteristics of a Bombay cat is its black fur, which should be glossy and short. The goal of the original breeder was to create a cat that looked like a miniature panther, hence the fur color.^{[1]
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2
Look for the gold or copper eyes. Another defining characteristic of the breed is its eyes. It was specifically bred to have gold or copper eyes, so if the cat you're looking at doesn't have that characteristic, it's not a purebred Bombay.^{[2]
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3
Note the rounded appearance. Bombays tend to have rounded edges. That is, they have a rounded head with a short nose. This trend continues throughout the cat's body, with rounded eyes, ears, and feet, as well as a rounded tail.^{[3]
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4
Notice the cat's muscular but not stocky build. Bombay cats tend to be medium to large cats. They range in weight from six to over twelve pounds, and the males are larger than the females. While they aren't as stocky as the Burmese, they are still very muscular, strongly built cats.^{[4]
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- Bombays tend to feel heavier than they appear.^{[5]
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5
Seek out the characteristic walk. Bombays generally walk in a certain way. It's a kind of swishing, swaying walk. Interestingly, it mimics the walk of a panther, the large cat the Bombay was bred to look like.^{[6]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Checking Its Personality

1
Pay attention to a noisy cat. Bombay cats are fairly talkative, and they will hold conversations with you. They aren't loud, per se, they just like to talk often. They have a distinctive meow, so you will know when your cat wants your attention.^{[7]
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Research source} However, not every Bombay cat will show this characteristic.^{[8]
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2
Be on the lookout for smarts. Bombays are pretty smart cats, so watch to see if the cat is able to figure things out. For instance, this might be the cat that will figure out how to open your bedroom door or get the treats that you've hidden on a high shelf. These cats love to be engaged in games of fetch, puzzle games, and other types of fun cat toys.^{[9]
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3
Notice an inquisitive nature. Of course, all cats are naturally curious and inquisitive. However, Bombays are even more so. They will always want to be in the middle of the action, so they can see what's going on.^{[10]
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4
Check for an easy-going and sociable cat. These cats are fairly laid back when it comes to social situations. They do well around families and pets, though they may want to be the dominant pet in the household, particularly if there are other cats.^{[11]
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Research source} They also enjoy curling up on your lap for some snuggle time.^{[12]
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Trustworthy Source
Cat Fancier's Association
World's largest registry of pedigreed cats and organization devoted to the well-being of all cats
Go to source}