How much is a Bombay cat? Looking at the price of a kitten and the ongoing costs of cat ownership.
If you have a hankering for a family friendly feline who resembles a mini jungle panther, one of the very first inquiries you will probably make is cost related.
This pedigree cat is black as India ink, has stunning eyes of either copper or emerald, a loving, sociable personality, and makes for a priceless forever friend.
You can learn much more about this fascinating breed, including health, temperament and grooming, here.
In this article, we’re going to talk about the cost of owning a Bombay cat. We’ll cover the typical price tag as well as ongoing costs such as feeding and insurance.
Bombay cat cost
You don’t have to spend a fortune to welcome your very own special and unique Bombay cat into your home. But the price range is a bit on the steep side.
Exactly how much is a Bombay cat?
The average price of a Bombay cat typically ranges from around $500 to $700. Sometimes, it can go even higher.
The price for a Bombay cat increases if you are interested in a show cat, with this cat-egory of felines commanding prices in the range of $2,000.
But the cost of a cat isn’t just the initial outlay.
Exotic Bombay cats
The striking and one-of-a-kind Bombay cat is a relatively rare animal. This is reflected in the price tag.
At the end of the 20th century, the Cat Fancier’s Association had fewer than 100 registered Bombay cats.
But what this midnight-black cat with a reputation for both beauty and brains lacks in numbers, it more than compensates for in appeal.
Potential health issues for Bombay cats
Breeders determine Bombay cat prices. You should always work with a responsible breeder if you are considering owning this active, friendly fur ball.
A reputable breeder will show you health clearances for her kittens.
She should have clearances for the parents as well.
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The health status of a kitten is one of the factors that go into determining, “How much is a Bombay cat?”
A healthy Bombay cat can live anywhere from 12 to 20 years if you are lucky.
Some of the issues that a Bombay cat may inherit include a propensity for runny eyes, sinus problems, and head deformities.
These characteristics arise from the fact that this pedigree is bred to have a flat face.
Glaucoma and diabetes may be potential issues for the breed as well.
Again, always work with a responsible breeder who will show you health certificates for the kittens that you are interested in.
Bombay kittens price
We mentioned before that Bombays considered to be show cats fetch a higher price.
Show cats are those that most closely fit the ideal physical breed standard for competing in cat shows, such as those held by the Cat Fancier’s Association and The International Cat Association.
If a kitten is judged to have such qualities, or was bred from a prize-winning Bombay show cat, the price tag for such a moggie can reach into the thousands of dollars.
Most potential owners are content to have a Bombay cat considered to be in the pet quality category.
Such a feline is not in any way inferior health or temperament wise. She simply may have ears that are too big, or eyes not quite the proper shade of emerald!
Some breeders occasionally have cats that are retired from the show circuit. If you would prefer an adult cat, be sure to ask about this option.
Bombay cat history
We can thank the late breeder, Nikki Horner, for the creation of this panther-like domestic cat. Horner developed the breed in the middle of last century.
Horner set out to create the American Bombay by crossing sable Burmese cats with black American Shorthairs.
The Bombay cat breed is named after the Indian city. In 1970 the breed was recognized and registered by the Cat Fanciers’ Association. In 1979 the Bombay pedigree was recognized by the International Cat Association.
A similar British Bombay cat exists, the result of a cross between Burmese and black domestic cats.
If you have decided that owning this people-oriented feline with a distinctly throaty voice is the right choice for you, let’s go beyond the initial cost and consider what it takes to maintain your moggie in the lifestyle that cats are accustomed to!
How much is Bombay cat on a year-round basis
Of course, basic kitty-cat maintenance items are pretty straightforward.
Every cat needs a comfy cat bed to call their own, a water dish, food bowl, toys, a litter box (with regular litter changings!), perhaps a pot of catnip, and maybe a modest kitty condo.
Their grooming needs are minimal compared to some breeds, but you will probably still want to have a brush handy just in case.
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that their diets should consist mainly of high quality protein.
Your Bombay should always be fed a complete, balanced diet.
Commercial cat food that meets this criteria carries a verifying statement from The Association of American Feed Control Officials.
Average annual cat food costs range from $150-$500.
Healthy Bombay cats can be expected to enjoy a moderately long lifespan, between 12 to 16 years.
All cats are subject to acute and chronic health problems due to lifestyle issues, inherited diseases, and sheer longevity issues.
Many owners opt to buy health insurance which can offset major medical expenses. Annual veterinary care costs range from $100-$500.
The average monthly cost of feline health insurance from several nationwide pet insurance companies ranges from around $10 to $40.
How much does a Bombay cat cost?
We hope that you enjoyed our overview of Bombay cat costs. Do you have a one-of-a kind Bombay cat at home? We’d love to hear about your special moggie!
Sources
- Cat Fancier’s Association
- The International Cat Association
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Bombay cat show piece any further details contact name brother
How do I find a breeder? I live in Albuquerque, and there aren’t any advertising locally.
I have 2 Bombay female kittens!! We were so lucky to get them…
Sure, I am trying to find one for my daughter but in vain
I have a two year old male Bombay..He’s the most beautiful cat I have ever owned..Blessed to have him.
Kindly advice me how to get a Bombay cat
I got mine for birthday at a shelter. A most unusual cat. We had to do research on him. We are 99% he’s bombay!
Due to the high cost and fact that a pure Bombay only comes from a breeder. That chance that one could come from a shelter is hardly possible, unless an owner passes away and specifies that the cat be adopted out by a “no Kill” shelter. A Bombay will always have the certificate of pedigree.
I have one too! A male my Vet says I around 1 &1/2 years old. He’s the friendliest cat I’ve ever owned. He’s so smart too.
A stray just walked up to my friend and me, purring in the middle of the night while we were conversing in his backyard. No tags, no chip, just a big demand for our attention and full black coat almost invisible until I noticed something rubbing up on my leg. She keeps coming back waiting ever since, and his family has been nice enough to feed her and give water. They already have 3 cats, and she keeps following me whenever I walk back to my car, so I’m going to take her. My friend even offered to cover the cost to spay her. I call her Pepper.
Thanks for letting her become a part of your heart. I have a beautiful girl of my own who has saved me many times over. She’s been a blessing to me. I don’t think you’ll regret it. They’re smart, loving, intelligent, and funny as all get out.
I have just adopted a Bombay from my friend father who passed away
She’s huge, clearly had many litters, has a tattooed ear. She is every bit a Bombay. How do I find out her history?
That is what my kitten did, he was so friendly. I thought he must be some body else’s cat. Well I went through the neighborhood nobody claimed him so I kept him. His name is MILO he is all black w/large pointy ears.
I I love Milo, our Bombay.. I think he may have been Ill treated as he just turned up one day and decided not to leave..He is so timid.
I dont know his age but has grown in the 2 years I’ve had him. I think he’s a Male..He has never needed a vet. I dont know his age either. Milo is jet black with emerald eyes.
I have a Bombay. His name is Kitty. He is the best cat we have ever owned. He is not too talkative unless he wants something. He is playful and loving but on his terms.
A Bombay wandered into my back yard, gets along great with my Maine Coon who also appeared in my yard 10 years ago. What are the odds that 2 exotic cats just show up at your house?
I Have a year old Female Bombay. She is black with black pads on her feet and Copper penny yellow eyes! She is beautiful. Has a great personality. She is a indoor cat. Names her Luna…
There was a litter of Bombay’s at our local pet supermarket for adoption. We took one home and she is amazing. Loves dogs, kids, new people.
I have a rescued Bombay kitty. His name is Leo. He is black and very muscular. Green eyes. He is always near me and watching me. He’s my best friend ❤️
My rescue is named Leonardo. Sometimes I call him Leonardo Edwardo. That gets his attention.
How does one determine a cat is a Bombay if it’s a stray that wanders. Into your yard?
I went to the rescue centre looking for a cat. They said “What kind of cat do you want?”, I said “A friendly one”. As I walked around, there were quite a few disinterested cats. Then there was this bald, scabby cat, in isolation. She came right up to say “hello” and that was it…Merry had chosen her owner. I’ve sorted out her coat, have had her over 10 years and she’s about 18 now. She’s been a proper little friend and we have many a deep conversation. She even says “ehwow” in the morning. I’ve only just discovered she’s a Bombay. Always thought she was classy, even when she was scabby. She’s beautiful – inside and out. My little ‘Mezbomb’…love her to bits…
We were honored to have a Bombay grace our lives for 14 years. She appeared in a neighbor’s yard after Hurricane Katrina skirted northwest Florida. Unable to keep the kitten, my neighbor reached out to me– it was an instant bond. Having grown up with Siamese, I was used to “talking” cats. Stormi SANG! Very melodious girl. We lost her to hyperthyroidism despite excellent vet care. Miss her every day~
We were in need of a new cat to help sort out our mouse problem! So we rescued our Hector Cat from a kill shelter. He was feral when we got him, having been found at 6 months old in the streets of Manhattan and a subsequent 6 months in a crate. It’s taken a bit of time to gain his trust but now he is a loving, happy cat. He still doesn’t allow anyone to pick him up but he will cuddle up to my husband and is closing in on me. He loves his treats and can go from zero to sixty in seconds flat! Yes, he purrs and loves to be scratched all over!
This BEAUTIFUL BLACK CAT ADOPTED ME, SHE JUST SHOWED UP AT MY DOOR AND STAYED,, SHE IS LOOKING AT ME NOW WITH THOSE GREEN EYES, SHE HAS WORKED HER SELF INTO OUR HOME, I WASN’T SURE BECAUSE I HAVE A AFRICAN GREY PARROT, HAVE HAD HER 31YRS. . THE NEW (MIDNIGHT) cat pays her no attention, I know she has that cat thing born her, i”m BEING very careful with the 2 of them. I took Midnight to the vets to have her fixed, guess what, the vet called me and said the pretty kitty was ALREADY FIXED, SO SOME ONE OUT THERE IS SO SAD MISSING HER, IF IT’S SOMEONE READING THIS, DON’T WORRY, I WILL TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF HER
A. Eautiful male Bombay found me one day. I was at home babysitting a Maine Coon and as I came home and opened the door this raggedy beat-up looking male jumped into my apartment and hasn’t left since. He needed some tlc when he found me having had a few minor injury. So I took him in got him health and he has never left except to go outside and hunt some mice in whatever. I love him to death. He is so gentle and so loving. He even snuggles me at night. Best cat ever! And smart. Will walk on a leash, fetch, beg, stay, and roll over for some tummynrubbing. Ita like having a dog only better. Glad he discovered me…I’ve had him for close to a year he wasn’t a year old when he came here so I’m looking forward to many yrs with this fine fancy feline. The richest black coat I’ve ever seen on any animal!.
I’d recommend rescuing instead of adopting. my family rescued a 6 month old bombay for only 70 dollars while the adoption places had old, some young, sick ones that had eye problems. all of them had some health issue, and they were really expensive, i mean, 700 dollars type of expensive. keep in mind we do live in oklahoma so we dont really have very many good places here
My Bombay cats name is Nico and he’s 3 months old,and he’s beautiful!
Hello where can I get one of that? In August 2020 my Bombay passed away and my daughter is suffering a lot, she sleeps with the footprint that they took on her last day …
How do I find out if mine is a Bombay? She was found in a barn, she’s totally black with a small white spot on her chest. She also has gold eyes.
We have two Bombays which we bought for £50 from someone who couldn’t keep them due to allergies when they were around 16 weeks old. Didn’t know they were Bombay at first, then realised how special they were and checked out. They are THE most gorgeous, loving and adorable cats. They behave like dogs and sit when they are asked to. One follows me all the time and sleeps on my bed. The other is out more but still just as loving. I love them soooo much. They are my best friends.
I don’t have cat before but I’m so lucky to have Bombay cat , male and female, they’re so friendly and always following me work garden , they don’t fight the food with the other cat , smart and fur hair very soft , they like clean. I love them very very much
I have I t month old female Bombay she is so playful she was a rescue cat and was very sick when we got her.shes up and playing around now wide open we love her to death couldn’t ask for a better cat her name is midnight