Bombay vs European Burmese

Which cat breed is right for you?

Bombay

Size
6–11 lbs
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Playful Social Intelligent

European Burmese

Size
7–14 lbs
Lifespan
10–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Affectionate Playful Intelligent

About the Bombay

The Bombay was created in the 1950s by breeder Nikki Horner in Louisville, Kentucky, who crossed sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs to produce a cat resembling a miniature black panther. This medium-sized breed weighs 6–11 pounds and has a compact, muscular build with a sleek, jet-black coat. Every feature is black — from their glossy, patent-leather-like fur to their nose leather and paw pads — contrasted only by their striking copper or gold eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Bombays are outgoing, attention-loving cats that thrive on being the center of their family's world. They are remarkably adaptable and get along well with children, dogs, and other cats — often becoming the social director of the household. Their intelligence and trainability make them excellent candidates for learning tricks, and they are known for greeting visitors at the door.

Pros

  • Sleek, low-shedding coat requires minimal grooming
  • Dog-like personality — enjoys fetch, leash walks, and greeting guests
  • Highly adaptable to apartment living and urban environments
  • Craves warmth and is an enthusiastic lap cat and bed companion

Cons

  • Can be excessively needy — does not tolerate being ignored well
  • Prone to craniofacial defects and breathing issues inherited from Burmese lines
  • Overeats easily and is highly prone to obesity
  • May become demanding and vocal when seeking attention

Fall in love with the sleek elegance of the Bombay — find your perfect match among adoptable cats on Puplister.

About the European Burmese

The European Burmese diverged from the American Burmese after World War II, when breeders in Europe developed the breed along different lines — favoring a more moderate, elegant body type over the cobby American standard. This medium-sized breed weighs 7–12 pounds and has a gently rounded head, moderately wedge-shaped profile, and a sleek, muscular build. Their short, satiny coat comes in a wider palette than the American variety — including brown, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, and all four tortoiseshell combinations.

Temperament & Personality

European Burmese are outgoing, affectionate cats that thrive on human interaction and hate to be left alone. They are playful and energetic without being hyperactive, and they get along beautifully with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs. Their sweet, expressive nature and tendency to "talk" in a soft, raspy voice make them irresistibly engaging companions.

Pros

  • Wider color palette than American Burmese — ten recognized shades
  • Moderate, elegant body type is less prone to breathing issues than the cobby American variety
  • Exceptionally social — does well in multi-pet households
  • Short, close-lying coat is virtually maintenance-free

Cons

  • Strongly dislikes being alone — may need a companion cat if owners work long hours
  • Prone to diabetes mellitus and orofacial pain syndrome
  • Can be overly persistent in demanding attention
  • Relatively uncommon in North America — may be hard to find through adoption

The European Burmese offers refined beauty and boundless love — discover adoptable cats on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

14

Bombays

Browse

0

European Burmeses

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Bombay and a European Burmese?
The Bombay is 6–11 lbs sized while the European Burmese is 7–14 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–11 lbs vs 7–14 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 10–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Bombay or European Burmese?
Bombay is generally good with kids. European Burmese is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Bombay or European Burmese?
The Bombay has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the European Burmese has a lifespan of 10–15 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Cats