At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Burmese | Bombay |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Burma | United States |
| Weight | 6 to 12 lbs | 6 to 11 lbs |
| Life span | 15 to 16 years | 12 to 16 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Burmese
Descends from Wong Mau, a brown cat brought from Burma to San Francisco in 1930 by Dr Joseph Thompson. The American and European lines have since diverged.
It is very people-focused and often follows its owner around.
Health to watch
- Hypokalaemia
- Diabetes mellitus
- Burmese head defect
- Orofacial pain syndrome
The Bombay
Developed in Kentucky in the 1950s by Nikki Horner, who crossed sable Burmese with black American Shorthairs to create a mini panther.
It has a jet-black coat and copper eyes, and is very people-oriented.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Craniofacial defect (Burmese head defect) in some lines
- Breathing issues from a shortened face
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Energy
The Burmese has more energy than the Bombay.
Needs company
The Burmese needs more company than the Bombay.
Which to choose
Burmese or Bombay?
Choose the Burmese if…
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- Someone is home most of the day (it needs more company)
Choose the Bombay if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
Questions.
Is the Burmese or the Bombay bigger, and which lives longer?
The Burmese tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Burmese or the Bombay?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Burmese or the Bombay?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Burmese and Bombay have?
The Burmese is prone to hypokalaemia, diabetes mellitus, Burmese head defect. The Bombay is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, craniofacial defect (Burmese head defect) in some lines, breathing issues from a shortened face. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
