Bombay vs Pixie-Bob

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

Pixie-Bob

Size
8–17 lbs
Lifespan
13–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Social Bold Active

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 Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob was developed in the Pacific Northwest of the United States beginning in 1985, bred to resemble the North American coastal bobcat. This large, muscular cat weighs 8–17 pounds — with males often tipping the scales on the higher end — and features a broad, pear-shaped head, hooded eyes, and a naturally short or bobbed tail ranging from two to six inches. Their coat is brown spotted tabby, either short or longhaired, with heavy ticking and a woolly texture.

Temperament & Personality

Pixie-Bobs are known for their devoted, dog-like personalities — they follow their owners everywhere, learn to walk on a leash, and some will even play fetch. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle and patient, making them excellent family cats. They tend to chirp and chatter rather than meow and are generally quieter than many breeds.

Pros

  • Wild, bobcat-like appearance with a gentle, domestic temperament
  • Dog-like loyalty — follows owners, learns commands, walks on a leash
  • Polydactylism is common and accepted in the breed, adding to their unique charm
  • Calm and patient with children and other household pets

Cons

  • Large size and high food requirements increase ownership costs
  • Some lines carry hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk
  • Can be territorial with unfamiliar cats introduced into the home
  • Thick coat — especially the longhaired variety — sheds heavily and needs regular brushing

Looking for a gentle giant with a wild side? Find Pixie-Bob cats ready for adoption on Puplister and bring home your own little bobcat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Bombay and a Pixie-Bob?
The Bombay is 6–11 lbs sized while the Pixie-Bob is 8–17 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–11 lbs vs 8–17 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 13–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Bombay or Pixie-Bob?
Bombay is generally good with kids. Pixie-Bob is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Bombay or Pixie-Bob?
The Bombay has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Pixie-Bob has a lifespan of 13–15 years.

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