Cat Breeds: Bombay

The Asian group of cats was brought about by breeders attempting to create cats of Burmese type, in colours not recognized in the Burmese - the Bombay is the Self Black version of the Asian. 

There are two cats named 'Bombay', but the one recognized by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy is a Black Self Asian. (The other version, which appears almost identical) was created in America in the 1950's, by crossing a Sable Burmese with Black American Short-hairs. The Bombay is a medium built cat, with a glossy, jet black coat. The head has good width between the ears and a gently rounded dome. The jaw is wide at the hinge tapering to a broad blunt muzzle. In profile the head forms a short wedge with a firm chin and short nose. The chin and the tip of the nose are in the same vertical plane. The ears are of medium size with a rounded tip. They are set so as to continue the angle of the face and are slightly tilted forward. The beautiful copper/gold eyes are set well apart and are full and expressive. The body is firm and muscular with a strong straight back. The legs are of medium length and the hind legs are a little longer than the front. The paws are oval and the tail is medium to long, tapering slightly to a rounded tip.

The Bombay is a friendly, intelligent and affectionate cat. Like the other members of the Asian group, the curiosity and friendliness of the Bombay can often lead it to stray into visitor's cars or delivery vans and they may be best confined to the house or a secure garden. They usually settle quite happily to this arrangement. They love to play and toys and scratching post should be provided for amusement as well as quality time set aside for play with their humans. They can be very sensitive to their owner's feelings and this makes them excellent companions. They are generally good with children and when fed up with the rough and tumble of play with human children will stalk off until peace resumes.  

*This information was collected from www.purina.com