Bombay vs Javanese

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

Javanese

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
10–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Vocal Intelligent Playful Devoted

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 Javanese

The Javanese is a longhaired variant of the Colorpoint Shorthair — carrying Siamese, Balinese, and Colorpoint genetics to produce a silky-coated cat in non-traditional point colors. This medium-sized, graceful breed weighs 5–10 pounds and has the Siamese's angular features, vivid blue eyes, and tubular body wrapped in a flowing, single-layered coat. Their point colors include red, cream, lynx (tabby), and tortoiseshell — any shade outside the traditional four Siamese colors.

Temperament & Personality

Javanese cats are opinionated, highly vocal, and completely devoted to their people — inheriting the Siamese family's legendary sociability and talkativeness. They are extremely intelligent and can learn complex tricks, open doors, and figure out puzzle feeders with ease. They do well with older children and social pets, though they firmly believe they should be the household's top priority.

Pros

  • Single-layered silky coat sheds minimally and produces less Fel d 1 allergen
  • Exceptionally intelligent — among the most trainable of all cat breeds
  • Deeply loyal and affectionate — forms an unbreakable bond with their person
  • Beautiful color variety beyond traditional Siamese shades

Cons

  • Extremely vocal and opinionated — will "argue" with you loudly and persistently
  • Prone to crossed eyes, progressive retinal atrophy, and heart defects from Siamese lineage
  • Can develop severe separation anxiety — not suited for owners who are frequently away
  • May become possessive and jealous of other pets or family members

Looking for a vocal, loving companion? Find Javanese cats and other talkative breeds on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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