Origins and History

Bombay History: The American "Parlor Panther"

The Bombay is a modern American creation. In the 1950s, breeder Nikki Horner of Louisville, Kentucky, aimed to develop a domestic cat resembling a miniature black leopard. She selectively crossed sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs to achieve the desired panther-like aesthetic with a gentle temperament. The breed gained formal recognition in the 1970s and remains relatively rare due to the precise breeding required for its signature jet-black coat and copper eyes.

Burmese History: The Sacred Temple Cat

With roots as sacred temple cats in Burma (modern-day Myanmar), the Burmese is an ancient breed. The foundation of the modern Western lineage is a single cat named Wong Mau, brought to San Francisco in 1930. Dr. Joseph Thompson bred Wong Mau with Siamese cats, establishing the distinct Burmese type through selective backcrossing. The breed later diverged into two main types: the more compact and rounded American Burmese and the more slender, angular European Burmese.

Physical Appearance

Bombay Appearance: The Miniature Panther

Bombays are meticulously bred for a specific, panther-like look:

• Build: Medium-sized with a muscular, surprisingly dense frame.
• Head: Rounded with a full face and sweet expression.
• Eyes: Large, round, and captivating in copper or gold (copper is the breed standard ideal).
• Coat & Color: Exceptionally short, fine, and glossy with a distinctive "patent leather" shine. The Bombay is the only breed that must be solid jet black to the roots, with black whiskers and paw pads.

Burmese Appearance: The "Brick Wrapped in Silk"

Burmese cats are known for their substantial, compact build that feels heavier than it looks:

• Build: Remarkably solid, muscular, and compact.
• Head: Rounded and broad with a short, well-defined muzzle.
• Eyes: Large, expressive, and range from gold to yellow.
• Coat & Color: Short, fine, and lies close to the body with a soft, satin-like texture. Colors include the original rich sable, champagne, blue, and platinum.

Coat and Grooming

Both breeds are celebrated for their low-maintenance, luxurious coats.

Personality and Temperament

Bombay Personality: The Playful Lap Cat

Bombays are affectionate, people-oriented companions that blend playful energy with a love for cuddles.

• Affection Level: High. They thrive on human companionship and are often found in a warm lap.
• Energy & Play: Retain a kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood. Enjoy interactive toys and games.
• Social Nature: Generally good with families, children, and other pets. They are social but not overly demanding.
• Vocalization: Tend to have soft, quiet voices and are not excessively vocal.

Burmese Personality: The Dog-Like Velcro Cat

Burmese cats are famously devoted, energetic, and crave constant interaction.

• Affection Level: Extremely High. They are "velcro cats" that must be involved in every household activity.
• Energy & Play: Highly active, intelligent, and enjoy learning tricks. Many love to fetch.
• Social Nature: They form intense bonds and can become lonely if left alone for long periods. Not suited for owners who want an independent cat.
• Vocalization: Communicative with a distinctive, often demanding, voice.

Health and Lifespan Considerations

Bombay Health Profile

Generally robust, but be aware of potential breed-specific concerns:

• Common Issues: May be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a heart condition) and excessive tearing.
• Genetic Note: Some lines can carry a risk for craniofacial defect.
• Average Lifespan: 12-16 years.

Burmese Health Profile

Typically long-lived, but with a few health considerations:

• Common Issues: Higher incidence of diabetes and hypokalemia (low blood potassium—a test is available for breeders).
• Genetic Note: Can also be susceptible to craniofacial defect in some lines.
• Average Lifespan: 16-18 years, often exceeding the average cat lifespan.

Recommendation: Purchase from reputable breeders who conduct genetic health screenings, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups for either breed.

Cost of Ownership (2026 Estimates)

Initial Investment

Annual Ongoing Costs

Which Breed Is Right For You?

Choose a Bombay If You Want:

• A stunning, mini-panther look with a patent leather coat.
• A loving lap cat that also enjoys playful sessions.
• An affectionate companion that is social but not overly needy or loud.
• A relatively low-maintenance grooming routine.

Choose a Burmese If You Want:

• An incredibly devoted, "shadow" companion that follows you everywhere.
• A highly interactive, intelligent, and dog-like personality.
• A cat with a longer average lifespan.
• A talkative friend who is always part of the conversation.
• The classic "brick wrapped in silk" physique in multiple beautiful colors.

Final Verdict

Both the Bombay and Burmese are exceptional breeds that offer:

• Stunning Aesthetics: Beautiful, sleek coats that are easy to care for.
• Deep Affection: Strong bonds and love for their human families.
• Playful Spirits: Intelligent and engaging personalities.

Your decision ultimately hinges on your lifestyle:

• For a more moderately affectionate, panther-like beauty, the Bombay is a perfect fit.
• For a supremely devoted, energetic, and talkative best friend, the Burmese will capture your heart.

Whichever you choose, you'll be gaining a loyal, elegant, and utterly captivating feline companion.