A lot of pet owners want to know what the difference is between Burmese and Bombay cats because they look so much alike. When you first look at these cats, they might look almost the same, especially because their coats are so smooth and their eyes are so expressive. But they are different breeds with different histories, personalities, and care needs. If you’re thinking about adopting one of these interesting cats or just want to know more about them, knowing the differences will help you understand what makes each breed so special.
History and Origin
The Burmese cat has an interesting history that goes back to Southeast Asia, specifically Burma (now Myanmar). In the 1930s, the breed was officially recognized in the United States when a cat named Wong Mau, who was said to be the first Burmese, was brought over and bred with Siamese cats. The kittens from this cross had a thick brown coat and a playful but loving personality. This was the start of the Burmese breed as we know it today.
The Bombay cat is a newer breed because Nikki Horner, a breeder from Kentucky, made it in the 1950s. She wanted to make a cat that looked like a tiny black panther. She did this by breeding a sable Burmese cat with a black American shorthair cat. The Bombay became known as “the parlor panther” because of its sleek, jet-black coat and golden eyes.
Physical Appearance: Next to Each Other
Even though both cats are similar in size and shape, you can see that they are very different when you look closely.
Burmese Cats:
- Coat: Short, fine, and like satin, with a shiny finish. In the past, Burmese cats only came in sable brown. Now, they also come in blue, champagne, and platinum.
- Eyes: round and big, usually gold or yellow.
- Body type: medium-sized, compact, muscular, and stocky.
- Shape of the head: round with a sweet look.
Bombay Cat:
The coat is always solid black and has a high-gloss, patent-leather look.
- Eyes: A striking copper or gold color that stands out against the jet-black coat.
- Size: Medium-sized, muscular, and athletic, and usually sleeker than the Burmese.
- The shape of their heads is round with a shorter muzzle, which makes them look more like a panther.
When you put them next to each other, the Burmese may look a little stronger, while the Bombay looks more sleek and exotic.
Personality and Mood
Both breeds are loving and like being around people, but their personalities are a little different.
Burmese Temperament:
People often say that Burmese cats are “dog-like” in how loyal they are. They are very loyal to their families and will follow their owners from room to room. They love being held, cuddled, and being a part of things that happen in the house. Burmese cats stay playful into adulthood, so they make great pets for families with kids or other pets.
Bombay Cat Temperament:
Bombays are just as loving as Burmese cats, but they are a little more independent. They are smart, curious, and like to play with others. A lot of Bombays like to do tricks and walk on a leash. They want attention and love, but they don’t ask for it as often as Burmese cats do. They are a great choice for busy homes because they are both loyal and independent.
Health and Life Expectancy
Both Burmese and Bombay cats are usually healthy, but like all breeds, they have some health problems that are more likely to happen to them.
- Burmese Health: Burmese cats may be more likely to have problems with their kidneys, craniofacial abnormalities, or glaucoma. Responsible breeders do everything they can to lower these risks. Burmese cats can live between 15 and 18 years if they are well taken care of.
- Bombay Health: Bombay cats are usually strong, but they can get hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a heart condition) and have eyes that tear too much. If they get the right care from a vet, they can live for 12 to 16 years.
Taking Care of and Grooming
Both cats don’t need much grooming.
- Burmese Cats: Burmese cats have coats that feel like satin. You only need to brush them once a week to get rid of loose hairs.
- Bombay Cats: Their smooth black coats don’t need much brushing, but they do need to be wiped down with a soft cloth often to make them shine.
Both breeds need regular dental care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Because they are smart and active, they need interactive toys and mental stimulation to stay healthy.
The Best Owners for Burmese and Bombay Cats
- Burmese Owners: These cats do well with families, retirees, or anyone who is home a lot. They don’t like being alone for long periods of time and want to be with other people.
- Bombay Owners: Bombay can live in many different ways. They like being around other people, but they can also have fun on their own. This makes them a good choice for working professionals who want a loyal but not too clingy friend.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Burmese | Bombay |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Southeast Asia/ U.S. | U.S. (1950s) |
| Coat Color | Sable, blue, champagne, platinum | Always jet black |
| Eye Color | Gold or yellow | Copper or gold |
| Build | Stocky and muscular | Sleek and athletic |
| Temperament | Extremely affectionate, people-dependent | Affectionate but more independent |
| Lifespan | 15–18 years | 12–16 years |
Final Thoughts
The Burmese and Bombay cats are similar in some ways, but their different coat colors, body types, and personalities make each breed special. Burmese cats are loyal lap companions who want to be close all the time. Bombay cats, on the other hand, add elegance, intelligence, and a little bit of independence to a home. Ultimately, your lifestyle and the kind of cat you want to have as a pet will determine which one you choose. In either case, you’ll be getting a pet that loves you and is beautiful.
FAQs
1. Are Burmese cats and Bombay cats the same?
Yes, Bombay cats are a mix of sable Burmese cats and black American Shorthairs, so they have Burmese ancestry.
2. Is brown the only color of Burmese cats?
No. Sable brown is the most common color, but Burmese cats can also be blue, champagne, or platinum.
3. Are all Bombays black?
Yes, real Bombays are always solid jet black with eyes that are either copper or gold.
4. Which cat is more loving, a Burmese or a Bombay?
Burmese cats tend to be more clingy and loving, while Bombay cats are loving but a little more independent.
5. Which cat has a longer life, the Burmese or the Bombay?
Burmese cats live longer than Bombay cats, with an average lifespan of 15 to 18 years compared to 12 to 16 years.