Bombay vs Savannah

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

Savannah

Size
12–25 lbs
Lifespan
12–20 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
No
Energetic Adventurous Curious 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 Savannah

The Savannah is a dramatic hybrid breed created by crossing a domestic cat with the African serval — a wild, long-legged, large-eared cat native to sub-Saharan Africa. First produced in 1986, Savannahs are classified by generation: F1 (50% serval) through F5 and beyond. Weight varies enormously — from 8 pounds in later generations to 25+ pounds in early generations — and they stand up to 17 inches at the shoulder. Their short, spotted coat mimics the serval's wild markings in colors like brown spotted tabby, silver spotted tabby, black, and black smoke.

Temperament & Personality

Savannahs are fiercely intelligent, high-energy cats that behave more like dogs than typical felines — they can be leash-trained, taught to fetch, and some will even play in water. Early-generation Savannahs retain more wild instincts and require experienced owners, while later generations (F4–F5) are more domesticated and family-friendly. They bond closely with their owners but can be standoffish with strangers.

Pros

  • Stunningly exotic appearance — one of the most visually striking domestic cats
  • Exceptionally intelligent and trainable — leash walks, fetch, and puzzle toys
  • Athletic and energetic — perfect for active owners who want an interactive pet
  • Short coat requires minimal grooming

Cons

  • Restricted or banned in many states, cities, and countries — check local laws first
  • Early generations (F1–F3) can be difficult to manage and may not use a litter box reliably
  • Extremely high energy — requires extensive daily exercise and enrichment
  • Strong prey drive makes them risky around small pets like birds and rodents

Fascinated by this wild-meets-domestic marvel? Check Puplister for Savannah cats looking for experienced, loving homes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Bombay and a Savannah?
The Bombay is 6–11 lbs sized while the Savannah is 12–25 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–11 lbs vs 12–25 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Bombay or Savannah?
Bombay is generally good with kids. Savannah is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Bombay or Savannah?
The Bombay has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Savannah has a lifespan of 12–20 years.

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