Bombay Cat vs. Black Cat: What's the Difference?

key point:

• Black cat simply describes any cat that is black, while the Bombay is a specific cross between the Burmese and the American Shorthair.
• All Bombay cats have gold or copper colored eyes. Black cats can have eyes of any color.
• Bombay cats were bred with panthers in mind – their bodies are more compact and muscular – whereas black cats are usually longer and leaner.
• Bombay cats always have short, velvety coats – while black cats can have long or short coats.
• Bombay cats always have black noses and paw pads.

Bombay cats and black cats are so similar that it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, once you get to know these two domestic cats, there are some distinct differences between them. Based on genetics alone, a black cat simply describes any cat that is black, while a Bombay cat is a specific cross between a Burmese cat and an American Shorthair.

But what else makes these two cats so different, and how can you best learn how to tell them apart? In this article, we'll discuss some of the key differences between Bombays and black cats, including how to tell if your black cat is indeed a rare and unique Bombay. let's start!

Comparing Bombay Cats and Black Cats

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Main Differences Between Bombay Cats and Black Cats

There are several main differences between Bombay cats and black cats. The Bombay cat is a specific feline hybrid breed bred for its compact body and large golden eyes, while the black cat is any feline with black fur. Black cats also have common facial features, while Bombay cats have larger eyes and a shorter muzzle or nose. But there are also some key differences.

Let’s take a moment to learn more about some of the differences between Bombay and black cats.

Bombay Cat vs Black Cat: Eyes

One of the main distinguishing features of Bombay cats from black cats is their eyes. Bombay cats are bred for their gold or copper colored eyes, a unique color that some black cats also have. However, a Bombay must have these copper colored eyes to be considered a true Bombay – there are no Bombays of any other color.

Black cats can have blue, green, brown, or gold eyes, while Bombay cats only have gold or copper eyes. Additionally, black cats tend to have smaller eyes than Bombays; Bombays were bred to have larger eyes. Although Bombay cats have larger eyes, they may experience more health problems, but this is the key difference that distinguishes these two cats.

Bombay vs Black Cats: Size and Coat

Overall size is another difference between Bombays and blacks. Bombay cats were bred with the panther in mind, so they have a compact, muscular body; most black cats are longer and leaner. This is another trait that can cause Bombay cats to have more health problems than the average black cat.

Compared with ordinary black cats, the fur of Bombay cats is also very unique. Black cats can have long or short hair with varying degrees of luster, while Bombay cats have only short black hair with a velvety sheen. Bombay cats are also completely black – their noses and paw pads are also black, a trait that many black cats do not have.

Bombay vs Black Cat: Facial Features

Another major difference between Bombay cats and black cats is their facial features. The Bombay cat was bred to have larger eyes and a shorter nose than the average black cat. While this may cause more health problems in Bombay cats, it's another way you can differentiate them from regular black cats.

While it's difficult to make this comparison unless you're looking at a Bombay and a black cat side by side, the Bombay's nose will be much shorter than the muzzle of the average American Shorthair.

Bombay Cats vs Black Cats: Personality

A final difference between Bombays and black cats is the personality of these breeds. Bombay cats are very intelligent felines, able to learn tricks and commands. They are curious, playful, and often mischievous. Some Bombay cats can also be bossy, which is usually not the case with common black cats.

Many black cats are friendlier and more easy-going than Bombay cats. However, every cat is unique and this may not always be the case. If you happen to spend time with a Bombay cat, you may notice how outgoing, opinionated and intelligent it is, whereas a black cat is more likely to be compassionate towards you.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Are Bombay cats rare?

The Bombay cat is a relatively rare cat. You may need to contact a Bombay cat breeder to get one, which is not the case with common black cats.

How do I know if my black cat is a Bombay?

You can tell if your black cat is a Bombay based on a number of determining factors. If your black cat is all black with a short nose, large golden eyes and a muscular body, then you may indeed have a Bombay rather than a regular black cat. However, a cat DNA test will be the only way you can be sure.

Are all black cats Bombay cats?

Not all black cats are Bombays, although all Bombays are black. This is an important distinction because there are many other felines with black fur. However, Bombay cats don't come in any other color, so keep that in mind!

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