Beautiful Black Cat Breeds

The ultimate black cats, Bombays are named for the stunning leopards of Bombay (now Mumbai) that they were bred to look like. They are sleek and athletic with coats of deepest black and bright copper or green eyes.

Despite their feral appearance, Bombays have a relatively easy-going temperament and beautifully expressive faces. They adapt well to almost any environment and make good apartment pets. However, as bright, sociable cats, they really hate to be left alone for too long.

Thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds, the Japanese bobtail is a smart, sweet cat with a melodious voice. Of course, their most distinguishing feature are those short rabbit-like tails, which are often less than three inches long.

Bobtails are playful, interactive cats who easily adjust to new people and places; this makes them good travelers. They also have many quirky dog-like characteristics such as being quick to pick up new tricks, carrying their toys about in their mouths, and enjoying a good game of fetch.

Maine coons are famously the largest housecats. The biggest one recorded grew to be over 4 feet long. Next to their surprising size, their thick and beautiful shaggy coats are probably their most recognizable feature. This makes them perfectly suited to cold temperatures.

Affectionate and intelligent, these gentle giants adore plenty of attention. Having retained their hunting skills from when they were used as ship ratters, Maines love to play with toys and often chase small creatures. Their owners will have no problems with rodents.

With their large ears, prominent cheekbones, and pointed chins, the Devon rex has a charming elfin face that masks an impish personality. Their unique velvet-soft curly coats come in a variety of colors, including black.

Their playful personality is often described as a crazy mix of cat and dog, and they are fantastic fun to have around in a lively household. They are also wonderfully loyal and love nothing more than curling up with a family member at the end of a long day of games and mischief.

British shorthairs are recognizable by their distinctive chunky bodies and broad faces. They tend to be a little less active than other breeds but no less cute. The black-haired ones often have black noses and paws and mesmerizing golden eyes.

These cuddly, calm cats are very family-oriented and loving. Still, they also enjoy their independence, being more than happy to amuse themselves. As such, they don’t mind being left home alone. As pets, they are mellow and undemanding, getting along with other pets and children just fine as long as they are given their own space.

While it may seem strange to include a hairless breed in a list of black cats, Sphynxes actually do have fur. Their soft, downy coat is just sometimes a little difficult to see. Their coloring can also be seen in their skin's pigmentation.

Even though these cats often have severe expressions to the point of being a little scary, Sphynx cats are funny jokesters. They adore getting lots of attention and can be very talkative. They need an owner with plenty of time to dedicate to them.

Easily identified by their adorable ears, which roll back rather than standing straight up, American curls are affectionate, outgoing cats that are great with kids. They are a relatively new breed, with their distinctive ears being the result of a genetic mutation.

Alert and adaptable, these cats have plenty of energy and love to play. They are also incredibly curious and like having a good nose around. Curls are especially good at opening doors and cupboards, so their owners need to be careful where they keep the kitty treats.

Norwegian forest cats, larger than most other breeds and with a gorgeous long, thick coat, have a very long history going back hundreds or perhaps thousands of years. Due to their wild heritage, these cats do well outside and are effective hunters.

Athletic yet mellow, Norwegian forest cats get on well with just about anyone and especially love children. However, they are also happy to be left to their own devices, taking everything in their stride.

Persians are one of the most popular and probably among the most recognized pedigree cats in the world, with their long silky fur, short legs, and flat faces. Interestingly, when this breed has a solid black coat, they nearly always have copper-colored eyes, too.

These beautiful cats have been somewhat villainized in popular fiction, portrayed as mean, cunning, and spiteful. In actual fact, they are sweet, friendly, docile feline. Persians are perfectly suited to quiet, mature households with owners who have time to properly care for them.

Like the American curl, the Scottish fold’s ears are their distinguishing feature. However, in this instance, they dip forward rather than curling back. This has the effect of giving these cats a cute, cheeky look like an owl or a teddy bear.

Quiet and sweet-natured, folds are said to remain quite kittenish throughout their lives, enjoying cuddles and playtime. They often form an extra close bond with a single family member and stay devoted to them always.