The Burmese: An Ancient Treasure

• Geographic Origin: Burma (Myanmar) and Thailand region
• Founding Cat: Wong Mau, imported to the United States in 1930
• Key Developer: Dr. Joseph Thompson
• Official Recognition: CFA recognition in 1936
• Modern Types: American (contemporary, stockier) and European (traditional, more moderate)
• Genetic Foundation: Developed through selective breeding with Siamese cats.

The Vital Connection: The Bombay breed contains significant Burmese genetics, which is why they share core personality traits like devotion and sociability.

Physical Characteristics: A Side-by-Side Look

Size and Build Comparison

Coat: Glossy Black vs. Colorful Satin

The Bombay Coat:

• Color: Exclusively a deep, patent-leather black from nose to tail.
• Texture: Exceptionally fine, short, and satin-like.
• Sheen: A high-gloss, polished appearance that catches the light.
• Feel: Smooth as silk to the touch.
• Details: Black whiskers, black paw pads, and black nose leather.

The Burmese Coat:

• Colors: Sable (rich brown), Champagne, Blue, and Platinum.
• Texture: Fine, short, and satin-like with a luxurious feel.
• Sheen: Naturally glossy and polished.
• Color Pattern: A subtle color point effect, where the face, ears, legs, and tail (points) are slightly darker than the body.

Facial Features & Expression

Design Note: The Bombay was specifically bred to combine its black coat with striking copper eyes, achieving the ultimate panther-like aesthetic.

Temperament & Personality: Devotion in Different Styles

The Bombay Personality: The Shadow That Purrs

• Activity Level: Moderate (6/10)
• Playfulness: Enjoys interactive play but is not hyperactive.
• Affection Style: A devoted, gentle lap cat who forms deep bonds.
• Vocalization: Quiet to moderately conversational.
• Sociability: Loves people and is generally good with respectful strangers.

Key Behavioral Traits:

• The quintessential "Velcro cat" who follows you from room to room.
• A supreme lap cat who seeks physical closeness.
• Highly adaptable to various home environments.
• Patient and tolerant, making them excellent with gentle children.
• Intelligent and can learn tricks for positive reinforcement.
• Possesses a moderate, manageable play drive.

Owner Insight: "My Bombay is a shadow that purrs. He's content just being near me, offering quiet companionship."

The Burmese Personality: The Canine Clown

• Activity Level: Moderate to High (7/10)
• Playfulness: Retains a playful, kitten-like energy throughout its life.
• Affection Style: Demanding, insistent, and deeply devoted to their family.
• Vocalization: Not loud, but uses a soft, charming rumble to communicate.
• Sociability: Extremely devoted to their immediate family; can be reserved with strangers.

Key Behavioral Traits:

• Demands attention and interaction; won't take "no" for an answer.
• A lap cat on their terms, often when they need a recharge between play sessions.
• Famous for their "clownish" antics and entertaining behavior.
• Many enjoy playing fetch, much like a dog.
• Curious and "into everything," requiring a stimulating environment.
• Can become possessive of their favorite person.

Owner Insight: "My Burmese is convinced he's a dog in a cat's body. He fetches, follows commands, and is the center of every activity."

Temperament Comparison at a Glance

Care & Lifestyle Requirements

Grooming Needs

Both breeds are low-maintenance:

• Coat Type: Short, fine, and satin-like.
• Shedding: Minimal year-round.
• Brushing: A weekly brushing with a soft rubber grooming mitt is sufficient to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.
• Bathing: Rarely needed due to their self-cleaning habits and coat texture.
• Ear Cleaning: Check and clean gently on a monthly basis.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Bombay:

• Thrives on moderate, daily play sessions with interactive wand toys or laser pointers.
• Values lap time and companionship as much as active play.
• Adapts well to the owner's activity level.

Burmese:

• Requires more active, engaging play to burn off their higher energy.
• Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and games of fetch are highly recommended.
• Needs consistent interaction to prevent boredom, which can lead to mischief.

Companionship Needs: The Non-Negotiable

Crucial for Both Breeds:

• Extremely people-oriented and prone to separation anxiety.
• Cannot be left alone for long hours regularly.
• Ideally, someone should be home often, or they should have a feline companion.
• They will follow you around the house, wanting to be involved in all activities.
• They are true companion cats, not independent aloof pets.

Health & Lifespan Comparison

Bombay Health Profile

Generally a Robust Breed:

• Benefits from a diverse genetic foundation.
• Few major breed-specific genetic issues.

Health Considerations to Discuss with Your Breeder/Vet:

• Craniofacial Defect: A rare developmental issue that responsible breeders have largely eliminated through testing.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A form of heart disease; screening of breeding stock is recommended.
• Potential for Sinus Issues: Due to selective breeding for a slightly flatter face in some lines.

Average Lifespan: 12 to 16 years.

Burmese Health Profile

Common Health Considerations:

1. Diabetes Mellitus: Burmese have a higher-than-average incidence. Weight management through diet and exercise is critical.
2. Hypokalemia (Burmese Hypokalemia): A hereditary condition causing low blood potassium levels. Reputable breeders test for this.
3. Flat-Chested Kitten Syndrome: A developmental condition that can affect some kittens; most outgrow it with proper care.
4. Gangliosidosis: A rare, fatal neurological disorder. DNA testing allows breeders to avoid producing affected kittens.

Average Lifespan: 10 to 16 years (with American Burmese often reaching the upper end).

Health Summary Table

Cost of Ownership (2026 Estimates)

Initial Acquisition Costs

Estimated Annual Costs (For Either Breed)

Pros and Cons Summary

Bombay Cat: Pros & Cons

Advantages (✅):

• Stunning Appearance: The unique "mini panther" look with a glossy black coat and copper eyes is breathtaking.
• Sweet Temperament: A devoted, adaptable, and patient companion ideal for families and singles alike.
• Generally Healthy: A robust breed with fewer hereditary concerns and a good lifespan.
• Low Maintenance: Easy-care coat and a moderate energy level that fits many lifestyles.

Disadvantages (❌):

• Rarer Breed: Fewer breeders can mean longer waitlists and potentially higher travel costs.
• No Color Variety: If you love the look of a black cat, it's perfect. If you desire color options, look elsewhere.

Burmese Cat: Pros & Cons

Advantages (✅):

• Beautiful Color Options: Choose from Sable, Champagne, Blue, or Platinum—all with a gorgeous satin sheen.
• Playful & Entertaining: Lifelong kitten energy and clownish antics provide constant amusement.
• Extremely Affectionate: Forms intensely devoted bonds and demands (and gives) endless love.
• Excellent Family Cat: Patient, interactive, and thrives in engaged, active households.

Disadvantages (❌):

• Cannot Tolerate Solitude: Prone to severe separation anxiety; not suitable for people who are away from home frequently.
• More Health Considerations: Requires a committed owner willing to pursue recommended health screenings and weight management.
• Demanding Nature: Their need for interaction is insistent; they are not a "hands-off" pet.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Bombay Cat If You Want:

• A living piece of art with a panther-like aesthetic.
• A deeply devoted but slightly calmer and more adaptable companion.
• The allure and uniqueness of a rarer breed.
• Low-maintenance beauty with an easy-care coat.
• A gentle, patient presence in a home with children.

Choose a Burmese Cat If You Want:

• A playful, entertaining personality that remains kitten-like for life.
• A cat that will play fetch and engage in interactive games.
• A deeply affectionate "velcro cat" who insists on being the center of your world.
• A choice of beautiful coat colors.
• A home where someone is present most of the time, or you can provide a feline friend.

Special Considerations for Modern Lifestyles

For Working Professionals & Busy Households

Important Warning: Neither breed is suitable for owners who work long hours outside the home or travel frequently without their pet.

Potential Solutions if You're Set on These Breeds:

• Adopt two kittens/cats together so they can keep each other company.
• Employ a pet sitter or cat walker for midday visits.
• Consider if a work-from-home or hybrid schedule is possible.
• Honestly assess if a more independent breed would be a better fit.

For Families with Children

Both breeds can be excellent, but with nuances:

• Bombay: Often praised for its slightly more patient and adaptable nature, making it a wonderfully tolerant family member.
• Burmese: Brings higher energy and playful antics that older children may adore, but their demanding nature requires teaching kids about respectful interaction.

Finding a Reputable Breeder in 2026

Essential Questions to Ask Any Breeder:

1. What specific health screening do you perform on your breeding cats? (For Burmese: ask about Hypokalemia and HCM testing).
2. Can I meet the parent cats to observe their temperament?
3. How do you socialize your kittens?
4. Do you have an indoor-only policy for your cats and kittens?
5. Are the kittens sold with registration papers and a detailed health guarantee?

Major Red Flags to Avoid:

• Breeders who allow their cats to live or go outdoors.
• An inability or unwillingness to provide health clearances for parent cats.
• Catteries that breed multiple, unrelated breeds.
• "Always available" kittens with no waiting list.
• Prices significantly below the market average.

Last Updated: 2026 | Both the Bombay and Burmese cats require committed, indoor-only homes with owners who can provide the daily companionship and interaction these devoted breeds crave.