The Egyptian Mau: a unique and rare cat breed

The Egyptian Mau is a unique and rare cat, loved for its exceptional traits and strong bond with people. The Mau is a small to medium-sized cat with a short to medium-length spotted coat. With only a few thousand individuals worldwide, this breed is considered rare. Once someone brings this Egyptian cat into their home, they often become so enchanted that a second one soon follows.

The origin and history of the Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is often associated with Egyptian roots and an ancient past. Archaeologists have discovered cats in the tombs of ancient Egyptians that closely resemble today’s Egyptian Mau. However, genetic analyses show that the breed is closely related to Western breeds such as the Maine Coon, Korat, and Turkish Angora.

The modern history of the Mau begins in 1953, when Princess Natalie Troubetskoy encountered a cat in Italy owned by the Egyptian ambassador. She acquired a cat from Cairo named Baba and bred her with a cat from the ambassador. This line laid the foundation for the modern breed. In 1955, Mau cats were exhibited for the first time at a cat show in Rome. A year later, Princess Natalie took three Maus to the United States, where Baba later became a champion.

Despite its admired status, the Mau remains rare. Fewer than 200 Egyptian Mau kittens are registered each year.

The appearance of the Egyptian Mau

This muscular yet elegant breed has longer hind legs, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 58 km/h (36 mph). A loose flap of skin at the front of the thighs provides extra flexibility and speed, making it the fastest domestic cat in the world.

The Mau has a medium-sized head with slightly rounded contours, large round light green eyes, and medium-sized ears. Its short, glossy coat is covered in striking spotted patterns and a distinctive scarab-shaped marking on the forehead. The spots of this Egyptian cat are found only at the tips of the hairs. Although other beautiful spotted breeds exist, like the Bengal and the Savannah, the Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat breed—not one selectively bred for that coat.

The Mau comes in several colors. According to the breed standard, only silver, black-smoke, and bronze are permitted. A dark spine line enhances its elegant silhouette.

The character of the Egyptian Mau: a breed full of personality

Egyptian Maus are known for their loving and loyal nature. They form strong attachments to their families and sometimes choose a favorite person, but they are devoted to the entire household. Their social and communicative nature makes them wonderful companions.

A Mau constantly seeks your presence. If you close a door between the two of you, it will let you know it’s not happy about it. Though social, Maus are subtle and not pushy. Still, they always manage to capture your attention when they want it—charmingly so.

Egyptian Maus are among the most intelligent cat breeds. They also have a strong territorial instinct. They are cautious around strangers and prefer to keep unfamiliar cats at a distance.

With lightning-fast reflexes, Maus are natural hunters. They love to chase toys and often learn to fetch. Even indoors, their instincts stay sharp—birds flying outside are “chased” from the windowsill, often accompanied by excited chirping sounds. This water-loving cat also enjoys drinking from and playing in a cat water fountain.

Care for the Egyptian Mau

The short coat of this Egyptian cat is easy to care for and sheds very little. Regular brushing is appreciated by the Mau. During shedding seasons, you can give your cat an anti-hairball paste like Kat-a-lax to help eliminate ingested hair through the stool and reduce the risk of developing hairballs. A fish oil supplement helps keep your cat’s skin and coat healthy and shiny.

As with all cats, it’s a good idea to regularly check your cat’s claws, eyes, and ears. To maintain good oral health, tooth brushing is recommended.

Due to their Egyptian origin, Maus are sensitive to cold. They love warmth—whether it’s a sunbeam, a radiator, or a cozy spot by the fireplace.

The Egyptian Mau is relatively prone to bladder stones and crystals, so it’s important to recognize the signs and reduce the risk. In watery urine, crystals are less likely to clump. Encouraging water intake—such as with a drinking fountain—can help lower the risk of bladder stones, as can maintaining a healthy weight, providing multiple easily accessible litter boxes in quiet areas, and minimizing stress.

The Egyptian Mau not only has a rich history but also a unique personality that sets it apart from other breeds. Its loyalty, playfulness, and intelligence make it the ideal companion for experienced cat lovers. With an average life expectancy of 15 years or more, the Mau is a friend for life—a graceful, affectionate cat that enriches your home with charm and unmistakable personality.

If you have any questions about the Egyptian Mau or about our products, please contact us.