Bombay cats are one of the rarest and most sought-after cat breeds in the world. These sleek, black felines have a distinctive look and personality that sets them apart from other cats. While their rarity has helped make them highly desirable, it has also led to some misunderstandings about their origin and characteristics.
So, how rare are Bombay cats really? Let’s take a closer look.
- Origins of the Bombay Cat
The Bombay cat is a relatively new breed, first developed in the United States in the 1950s. The breed was created by a breeder named Nikki Horner, who wanted to develop a cat that had the look of a black panther but the personality of a domesticated housecat.
To achieve this goal, Horner crossed a sable Burmese cat with a black American Shorthair. The result was a sleek, black cat with a muscular body and a friendly, affectionate personality.
Bombay cats quickly gained popularity among cat lovers, and the breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1976.
- Population and Rarity
Despite their popularity, Bombay cats are still considered to be a relatively rare breed. According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, there were only 401 Bombay cats registered with the organization in 2020, making them the 47th most popular breed out of 44 recognized breeds.
While these numbers may seem low, they do not necessarily reflect the true population of Bombay cats. Many breeders and owners do not register their cats with the Cat Fanciers’ Association or other cat organizations, so the actual number of Bombay cats in the world is likely higher than the registration figures suggest.
Furthermore, the rarity of the Bombay cat can vary depending on where you live. In some parts of the world, such as the United States and Canada, Bombay cats are relatively rare and can be difficult to find. In other areas, such as Europe and Australia, the breed may be more common.
- Appearance and Characteristics
Bombay cats are known for their sleek, black coats, which are short, shiny, and dense. They have large, gold or copper-colored eyes, and their ears are set far apart and tilted forward. Bombay cats have muscular bodies and are usually medium-sized, weighing between 6 and 11 pounds.
While their appearance is certainly striking, what sets Bombay cats apart is their personality. They are known for being friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, and they often crave attention from their owners. Bombay cats are also highly intelligent and playful, and they enjoy games and puzzles that challenge their minds.
One common misconception about Bombay cats is that they are always completely black. While black is the standard color for the breed, some Bombay cats may have small amounts of white fur on their chest or paws. Additionally, some breeders may offer “chocolate” or “blue” Bombay cats, which have lighter-colored fur than the standard black coat.
- Adopting a Bombay Cat
If you are interested in adopting a Bombay cat, there are a few things to keep in mind. Because they are relatively rare, finding a reputable breeder can be a challenge. It is important to do your research and find a breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and who follows ethical breeding practices.
Alternatively, you may be able to find a Bombay cat available for adoption through a local shelter or rescue organization. While it may be more difficult to find a purebred Bombay cat through these channels, you can still provide a loving home for a cat in need.
While Bombay cats are certainly rare, their popularity has been steadily increasing in recent years. These friendly, affectionate felines are a joy to have as pets and make wonderful companions for cat lovers. If you are interested in adopting a Bombay cat, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder or rescue organization to ensure that you bring home a healthy and happy cat.
