Bombay vs Japanese Bobtail

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

Japanese Bobtail

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
9–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Energetic Playful Intelligent Social

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 Japanese Bobtail

The Japanese Bobtail has been documented in Japanese art and folklore for over a thousand years — the famous "maneki-neko" (beckoning cat) figurine is modeled after this breed. This medium-sized, elegant breed weighs 5–10 pounds and has a lean, athletic build with high cheekbones and a distinctive pom-pom-like bobbed tail. Their silky coat comes in longhair and shorthair varieties in many colors and patterns, though the tri-color calico ("mi-ke") is the most prized in Japanese tradition.

Temperament & Personality

Japanese Bobtails are active, intelligent, and remarkably talkative cats with a melodious, chirping voice that owners describe as "singing." They are social and get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs — often initiating games and play. Their confidence, curiosity, and love of human interaction make them lively, engaging companions that rarely sit still for long.

Pros

  • Rich cultural significance — considered a symbol of good luck in Japan
  • Naturally healthy breed — the bobbed tail is not linked to spinal problems like the Manx gene
  • Highly active and playful — loves interactive games and puzzle toys
  • Silky coat resists matting and is easy to groom

Cons

  • Very active — requires significant daily play and enrichment
  • Talkative with a distinctive chirpy voice — not ideal for noise-sensitive owners
  • Strong-willed and can be stubborn during training
  • Relatively rare in Western countries — limited availability for adoption

Bring good luck into your home with a Japanese Bobtail — find adoptable cats on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Bombay and a Japanese Bobtail?
The Bombay is 6–11 lbs sized while the Japanese Bobtail is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–11 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 9–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Bombay or Japanese Bobtail?
Bombay is generally good with kids. Japanese Bobtail is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Bombay or Japanese Bobtail?
The Bombay has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Japanese Bobtail has a lifespan of 9–15 years.

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