Bombay Cat
The late Nikki Horner, from Louisville, Kentucky set her sights on producing a copper-eyed black shorthaired cat with the exotic appearance of a “mini”, or “parlor-panther.” The black leopard of India inspired her choice of the breed’s name. Ms. Horner began her effort in 1953 with the selection of a black American Shorthair male with deep copper eye color and a Grand Champion sable Burmese female. Our modern Bombay is the result of her efforts.
The Bombay should move with sensuous elegance, like a panther. They are solid and surprisingly heavy, with a rounded head and a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. The coat should have a satiny sheen and lay close to the body, adding to it’s exotic appearance. An occasional sable kitten may be born to a Bombay litter, but the color is not considered desirable among breeders. Most cats stay relatively clean and rarely need a bath, but they do need to be brushed or combed to stimulate blood circulation and promote good health. A grooming glove or mitten can make this process as simply as daily petting.
