The Black Burmese cat and the Bombay are two distinct breeds that often captivate cat enthusiasts with their sleek, panther-like appearance.
Despite their similar aesthetics, stemming from their all-black coats and impressive yellow to copper eye colors, these breeds have unique origins and characteristics that set them apart.
The Bombay cat was developed in the United States in the late 1950s with the intent to resemble a miniature panther, achieved by crossing a sable Burmese with a black American Shorthair.
In contrast, the Burmese breed has a history rooted in Southeast Asia, later refined in the United States and Britain to maintain its distinctive traits.
In this article, we will explore the differences between these two beautiful felines, and you will come away with a better understanding of these two distinct breeds.
Black Burmese Cat vs. Bombay
Characteristics such as temperament, body shape, and health profiles differentiate the Bombay and Burmese breeds.
Bombays are known for their social, affectionate nature, often described as ‘velcro’ cats due to their tendency to stick close to their human companions.
They sport a muscular, medium-sized body and a head with a rounded contour. Meanwhile, the Burmese cat projects a similar sociability but with a more pronounced playfulness and a tendency to vocalize more.
Although also muscular, Burmese cats tend to have stockier bodies than Bombay’s sleek form.
As domestic cats, the Black Burmese and Bombay enjoy indoor environments where they can form strong bonds with their families.
Each breed requires a moderate level of care in terms of grooming due to their short, low-maintenance coats.
Health-wise, they may have breed-specific conditions that potential owners should consider.
Understanding the distinctions between the Black Burmese and Bombay cats aids enthusiasts and potential cat owners make an informed decision aligned with their preferences for companionship, aesthetics, activity level, and care requirements.
History and Origin
The black Burmese and Bombay cats are distinct breeds with unique histories, developed through selective breeding and the efforts of dedicated individuals.
Understanding their origins provides insight into their current characteristics and breed standards.
Development of Bombay and Burmese Breeds
The Burmese breed traces its roots back to Southeast Asia, where the original breed archetype, a cat named Wong Mau, was brought to North America in the 1930s.
American breeders, most notably Dr. Joseph Thompson, recognized her distinct appearance and began a breeding program to develop what is known today as the Burmese cat.
The breed gained recognition from the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1936 and has been cherished for its friendly nature and sleek, short coat.
In contrast, the Bombay breed, which showcases a striking panther-like appearance, was developed much later, in the 1950s, by American breeder Nikki Horner.
She aimed to create a breed that resembled a miniature black panther with the temperament of a domestic cat.
Horner crossed sable Burmese cats with black American Shorthairs to achieve Bombay’s distinctive look.
The American Bombay was recognized by the CFA in 1976, while the British Bombay, developed independently in the United Kingdom by British breeders, evolved as a variant with slight differences in appearance.
Influential Breeders and Associations
Nikki Horner’s imprint on the Bombay breed is undeniable; her efforts in Louisville, Kentucky, established the breed’s standards, which cat associations later embraced.
In North America, the International Cat Association (TICA) and the CFA continue to oversee breed standards and maintain the distinctive traits of the Bombay and Burmese breeds.
On the other hand, British breeders contributed significantly to the development of the British Bombay, which is sometimes considered a variant of the Burmese rather than a separate breed.
The British Bombay has a conformation that aligns closely with the contemporary Burmese, differing in the region’s standards for the breed.
Both breeds have garnered a community of enthusiasts and breeders globally. However, it’s worth noting that despite their popularity, the Bombay, in particular, remains a relatively rare breed.
Through the efforts of cat associations and passionate breeders, the unique legacies of these elegant, black-coated breeds continue to be preserved and celebrated internationally.
Related: Birman Cat vs. Siamese
Physical Characteristics
The Bombay and Burmese cats are distinguished by their luxurious coats and striking features.
These breeds exhibit notable differences in their coat colors and textures, as well as their physical build and eye color.
Coat and Color Differences
- Burmese Cats:
- Coat: Short, sleek, and satiny
- Color: Sable is the most recognized color, but they also come in blue, champagne, and platinum shades.
- Bombay Cats:
- Coat: Short, tight, and highly glossy
- Color: Solid black coat, with the fur’s color deeply saturated to the roots.
Distinctive Features of Bombay and Burmese Cats
- Bombay Cats:
- Eyes: Large, round, and set far apart. They range from copper to gold and with an intense green possible.
- Head: Round head with a distinctive short, flat nose.
- Body: Medium-sized with a muscular build, giving them a panther-like appearance.
- Burmese Cats:
- Eyes: Large, expressive, typically ranging from gold to yellow.
- Head: Rounded head but not as extreme as the Bombay.
- Body: Medium-sized yet heavily muscled, presenting a solid feel.
Personality and Behavior
Bombay and Burmese cats are known for their affectionate personalities and adaptable behaviors suitable for family and indoor living.
Social Traits of Bombay and Burmese Cats
Bombay cats are often likened to a miniature black panther due to their sleek, glossy black coats and striking eyes, earning affectionate nicknames like ‘parlor panther’ or ‘mini panther’.
Their social nature makes them excellent companions; they tend to be very affectionate with family members, often earning the title of ‘lap cat’ due to their fondness for cuddling.
Similarly, the Burmese cat displays a strong inclination for companionship, thriving in environments where they can interact with people and other pets.
They exhibit a curious cat demeanor, actively seeking out social interactions and playtime with their human counterparts and exhibiting lap cat behavior.
Activity Levels and Behavioral Patterns
Both Bombay and Burmese breeds exhibit moderate to high activity levels.
As indoor cats, Bombay cats enjoy interactive play and may often engage in activities resembling their ‘tiny panther’ instincts, such as stalking imaginary prey. They are known for being:
- Playful: Often engaging in games with toys or with their human family members.
- Intelligent: Quick to learn tricks and commands.
Burmese cats, on the other hand, have a slightly more varied behavioral pattern:
- Socially Active: They enjoy being the center of attention and can be pretty vocal in social settings.
- Energetic: They possess a noticeable zest for life and exploration, which keeps them active throughout the day.
In both breeds, their behavior is often a function of their environment, with ample stimulation and social interaction key to maintaining a happy and active demeanor.
Related: Bengal Cat vs. Tabby
Health and Care
When considering the health and care of Black Burmese and Bombay cats, attention must be given to breed-specific health concerns and grooming needs to ensure they remain healthy and well-maintained.
Common Health Issues
Black Burmese Cats often have a predisposition to specific genetic conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart disease that is the most common health issue in the breed.
Additionally, they can experience sinus issues due to their distinct facial structure. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor these conditions.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Regular screening is advised.
- Sinus Issues: Symptoms may include sneezing or nasal discharge.
Bombay Cats are a generally healthy breed, but they are not without their challenges. They are prone to dental disease, so it is essential to maintain proper dental hygiene.
- Dental Disease: Daily brushing is recommended to prevent periodontal diseases.
Both breeds may face common feline ailments, so a proper diet and regular veterinary visits are key to a healthy breed.
Grooming and Maintenance Requirements
Black Burmese Cats require minimal grooming. They have short coats that need weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.
- Brushing: Once a week, use a soft brush.
- Bathing: Rarely necessary unless the cat gets into something messy.
Bombay Cats also have short coats that demand little grooming. Like the Burmese, a weekly brushing is typically sufficient to maintain their sleek appearance.
- Brushing: Weekly with a soft-bristle brush.
- Bathing: Infrequent, only as needed.
For both breeds, proper diet and exercise are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity-related health issues.
Meet Ann Haasnoot, the passionate founder of CatFurLife.com. A lifelong cat lover from Wisconsin, Ann combines her extensive feline behavior and care knowledge with her love for writing. On her website, she shares invaluable insights about cat breeds, care tips, and her experiences with her beloved furbaby, aiming to deepen the bond between cats and their human companions.