Black cats can belong to various breeds, as many breeds allow for a solid black coat. The breed most exclusively known for being black is the Bombay cat, which has a sleek, shiny black coat and striking copper or golden eyes. Other popular cat breeds that can have black coats include:
- Bombay: Exclusive black coat, velvet-like short fur, affectionate and social personality.
- Persian: Long, luxurious black coat with a flat face; requires regular grooming.
- Maine Coon: Large, majestic breed with thick long fur, including black variants.
- British Shorthair: Can have a jet black coat with gold eyes, known for being calm and easygoing.
- Scottish Fold: Can have black fur and is known for its folded ears.
- Chantilly-Tiffany: Often has a soft black coat with a silky feel, affectionate and loyal.
- Japanese Bobtail: Sociable with a dense black coat.
- American Bobtail: Athletic with short or long black fur.
Many other breeds recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) can have black coats, making black cats diverse in breed and personality. The Bombay is unique in being exclusively black, while others may have black as one of several possible coat colors.
