The Bombay cat, also known as the little black panther, Mona Lisa, or mini panther, is a famous short-haired cat bred in the United States. Its whole body is jet black, glossy, with short fur closely attached to the body, like patent leather. The Bombay cat is not yet recognized in the UK.

　　The Bombay cat is a modern breed created in 1958 by American breeders using Burmese cats (black Burmese) and American black shorthair cats. Due to its appearance closely resembling the Indian leopard, it was named after the Indian city of Bombay. In 1976, the Bombay cat was once chosen as a champion by cat lovers' associations. Currently, this gentle, affectionate, intelligent, and lively beautiful little cat is increasingly popular. Below, the Cat Encyclopedia team introduces the detailed features of the Bombay cat:

　　Basic characteristics

　　Head: round shape.

　　Face: round shape, short nose, well-developed lower cheeks.

　　Eyes: round, bright copper color, wide spacing between the eyes.

　　Ears: medium size, slightly rounded tips.

　　Nose: short nose.

　　Coat: short, close to the body, soft and fine texture, shiny black color.

　　Torso: medium size, muscular.

　　Limbs: sturdy, strong, coordinated with body and tail. Toes are round, compact, strong, with black paw pads. Small, oval claws.

　　Tail: moderate length.

　　Appearance features

　　The Bombay cat was bred by crossing Burmese cats and American shorthair cats, retaining the American shorthair’s color and resembling the Burmese in body shape. It has a unique color—black, lighter as kittens, and jet black and solid in adults, shiny short fur, called the “little black panther.” The Bombay cat has a medium body size, relatively large appetite, strong muscles, and a weight that is considered "heavyweight" relative to its size, making it feel particularly substantial when held. According to its name origin, it is a cat full of wild charm. Its body shape is like the Burmese cat, semi-short body type, with a rounded head, but a longer neck and limbs than the Burmese, with well-developed muscles, and amazingly agile movements.

　　The Bombay cat's head is round, cheeks are full and round. The nose is medium short and slightly recessed but not flattened, with a black nose leather. Eyes are large, round, golden yellow or copper-colored, occasionally sparkling with charming light, hence the nicknames Mona Lisa and mini panther. By about 4 years old, adult cats have pure black fur from root to tip, which makes their shiny golden eyes even more charming. Ears are round and upright, slightly leaning forward, with wide spacing between them.

　　Bombay kittens develop very slowly, often showing tabby patterns on their coat. The eye color of kittens, like other kittens, is blue at birth, then turns gray, and finally becomes golden or deep copper.

　　Undesirable traits

　　Extremely short and fat or slender body; overly delicate bone structure; too thin, twisted tail; woolly coat; button spots and white patches; flat skull, green eyes; nose leather and paw pads not black. (Source：PetsZone)