Bombay Cats vs Black Cats

Do you want a black cat as a pet? You might wonder if you should get a Bombay Cats vs Black Cats.

Even though they look very similar, there are some essential differences between Bombay cats and other black cat breeds.

Keep reading to learn all about what makes Bombay unique!

Bombay Cats vs Black Cats

The main difference between Bombay cats and Black cats is that Bombay cats are a specific breed with black fur and copper eyes, whereas black cats have black fur but can be any breed or have any eye colour. Bombay cats have a distinctive look and personality unlike a regular black cat of another breed.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Bombay Cats vs Black Cats.

Attribute	Bombay Cat	Black coat colour is expressed differently in different breeds. Eye color varies.
Breed	The Bombay breed is a specific cat breed developed by crossing Burmese and American Shorthair cats to produce a black cat with copper eyes.	Black cats can be of any breed – black Persian cats, black Siamese cats, etc.
Coat	Silky, fine, closely lying black coat.	It can vary in texture based on breed.
Eyes	Copper or gold.	Black is a coat colour rather than a breed.
Body Type	Medium-sized, muscular body.	Varies by breed – some black cats are large, some small.
Personality	Social, playful, attached to families, loves attention. More dog-like.	Vary by breed – some more aloof, some very attached and social.
Care Needs	Requires regular grooming and moderate exercise.	Varies by breed.
Origin	Cross between Burmese and American Shorthair breeds. It developed in the 1950s in the USA.	Varies tremendously based on the breed.
Recognized By	Major cat registries recognize the Bombay breed.	Black is a coat color rather than a breed.
Genetics	Black coat and copper eyes bred true in Bombay cats.	Black is a coat colour rather than a breed.

Now that you have an overview of the differences between Bombay Cats vs Black Cats read on for an in-depth feature-by-feature comparison.

In summary, the main difference is Bombay is an established breed with predictable traits, while Black Cats have more variation as they can be any breed with a black coat. Bombay’s tend to have a more uniform appearance and personality than mixed-breed black cats.

You May Also Like:
White Maine Coon Cat Breed Info

What Is a Bombay Cat?

A Bombay cat is a breed of cat that has a gleaming black coat. They look like miniature black panthers! These cats were first bred by mixing Burmese with black American Shorthair cats.

Bombay cats have several characteristics that make them different from regular black cats:

• They have very short, sleek fur that is extra glossy and shiny.
• They have striking copper or gold eyes. Regular black cats usually have yellow or green eyes.
• They are medium-sized cats that have muscular bodies.
• They are playful and like being around people.
• Pedigree Bombay kittens with official papers proving their ancestry will cost $1000+.

So, in summary – Bombays are a special pedigree breed of short-haired, muscular black cats with copper eyes and extra glossy fur. Not all solid black cats are Bombay!

What’s Special About Black Cats?

Any all-black cat that doesn’t have official Bombay ancestry is called a “black cat” or “solid black cat.” They still make wonderful pets!

Some fun facts about black cats:

• Black is one of the most common cat coat colours.
• Solid black coats are caused by a gene that suppresses tabby patterns.
• Black cats can have yellow, green, or orange eyes.
• Many people think they are bad luck, but this is not true!
• Adopted black cats often cost less than other colours.

So black cats still have unique traits, even if they aren’t an expensive pedigree breed. They have lush, solid black fur without stripes and bright eye colours. They make friendly, loving pets.

You May Also Like:
Black Siamese Cats: In Striking Feline Friend

Comparing the Looks – Fur, Eyes, and Size

Let’s compare Bombay Cats vs Black Cats appearance – including fur, eyes, size, and shape.

Trait	Bombay Cat	Black Cat
Fur Length	Short, sleek, dense	Varies – can be short or long
Fur Texture	Very glossy, shiny, satin-like	Less glossy shine
Eye Color	Copper or yellow/gold	Yellow, green, copper, orange
Body Type	Medium size, muscular	Varies – depends on breed mix
Cost*	$1000+ for pedigree	Often less than Bombays

As you can see, the most significant difference is in their fur and eyes.

• Bombay cats have shorter, glossier, denser fur than the average black cat. Their jet-black coat gleams!
• Bombay’s eyes are copper/gold, while black cats can have various eye shades.
• Both cats can be medium-sized, but Bombays have more muscular bodies.
• Bombay kittens cost more since they are pedigrees.

So, if you’re looking for a shiny mini-panther, get an actual Bombay cat! But if you want an adorable black kitten without paying for the pedigree, a regular black cat makes a perfect pet, too.

You May Also Like:
Norwegian Forest Cat

Personality and Care Needs

Aside from looks, what about personality and care needs? Are there differences as well between Bombay Cats vs Black Cats?

Trait	Bombay Cat	Black Cat
Personality	Playful, affectionate, likes attention	Varies, often playful and friendly
Energy Level	Moderate – like daily playtime	Varies
Vocal	Can be talkative	Can be vocal
Grooming	Weekly brushing	Depends on coat length

A few things stand out when comparing their personalities and care requirements:

• Bombays love playing games and bond strongly with their families. Regular black cats also frequently share those friendly traits.
• Bombay cats have a moderate activity level, while individual black cats can vary.
• Weekly grooming is recommended for Bombay since their coats are short. Black cats with longer fur need more frequent combing.
• Bombays don’t shed much, thanks to their short fur. Whether black cats shed depends on their coat length.
• Bombay cats tend to be healthy, while health concerns differ between individual black cats.

In terms of care and personality, Bombay might require more regular playtime and grooming. But both Bombay and black cats have delightful, friendly personalities and can develop deep bonds with their owners.

Should I Get a Bombay Cats vs Black Cats?

After comparing the differences, which cat is right for you – the Bombay or traditional black cat?

Ask yourself these questions:

• What’s my budget?
  Bombay cats are more expensive since they are pedigreed. Average black cats often cost less to purchase and care for.
• Am I attracted to the glittery black Bombay look?
  If you love short, glossy panther coats and copper eyes, get a Bombay! Any solid black cat is gorgeous if you want an adorable black cat.
• How much grooming and playtime can I handle?
  Lively Bombays thrive with daily interactive play sessions and weekly brushing. More laidback black cats may content themselves with less.

Think about what traits matter most to you. Then, you can decide whether paying extra for the Bombay breed is worthwhile or if you would be delighted with any sweet black kitten!

Bombay and black cats make wonderfully affectionate, playful companions regardless of your choice. Be sure to buy or adopt from ethical breeders and shelters.

You May Also Like:
8 Things Every Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat Owner Should Know

Conclusion: Bombay Cats vs Black Cats

While Bombay and black cats appear similar at first glance, they have some notable differences. Bombays are pedigreed show cats with copper eyes, dense black fur, and muscular bodies costing over $1000. Average solid black cats have a more comprehensive range of eye colours and fur types and are usually much cheaper to adopt.

But no matter their heritage, any shiny black kitty will bring joy, affection and fun into your home. Think about your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget. And remember – a cat’s beauty comes from within, not papers or price tags!

Frequently Asked Questions

Share Your Friends