The Egyptian Mau laying on rocks, looking cute.

Egyptian Mau | History, Traits, and Care

Egyptian Mau Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?

The Egyptian Mau is an ancient and graceful breed, known for its strikingly beautiful spotted coat and vibrant green eyes. Renowned for their speed and agility, these cats are also beloved for their affectionate and playful nature.

The Egyptian Mau, a rare breed of domestic cat, is small to medium sized with a dense, short coat adorned in distinctive spotted tabby patterns. This ancient Egyptian Mau breed is characterized by its athletic build, featuring neat rounded paws and a muscular physique. Known for its large, round eyes and unique markings, the Egyptian Mau embodies a slightly apprehensive expression, echoing its historical significance and roots in ancient Egypt. Despite its antiquity, the breed remains relatively rare in the cat fancy world, with its lineage tracing back to the Turkish Angora but distinctively unique in appearance and demeanor.

Egyptian Mau mother with her kittens.

Quick facts

Life Span

How long do the Egyptian Mau live? 
12 - 15 years.

Average Weight 

2.7kg - 6.0kg

Colours

The Egyptian Mau comes in six colors: silver, bronze, smoke, black, caramel, and blue/pewter, with silver being the most prevalent among them.
The Egyptian Mau in Ancient Egypt

Essential Information

  • Egyptian Mau's are independent yet sociable.
  • The Egyptian Mau requires a tranquil environment.
  • Highly active and curious feline.
  • Egyptian Mau's can be left alone for short periods.
  • The Egyptian Mau needs Weekly Grooming.
  • Thrives on Interactive Cat Toys
  • An energetic Indoor Cat.
  • Moderately vocal.
  • Not suited for homes with young children.
  • Graceful and slender in appearance.
  • Prefers a mix of indoor and outdoor access.
  • The Egyptian Mau requires an owner with experience.
  • Fastest of domestic cats, reaching up to 30 mph.
  • Their coats come in silver, bronze, and smoke colors.
  • Egyptian Maus often form strong bonds with their owners.
  • Their large, almond-shaped eyes give them an expressive, alert look.
  • Despite their agility, they enjoy quiet snuggles with their humans.
The Egyptian Mau looking into camera looking cute.

The Egyptian Mau Breed Health

Typically resilient Cat Breed The Egyptian Mau, a rare domestic cat breed with spotted tabby coats, may encounter:


  • Pyruvate kinase deficiency : known to cause anemia in certain breeds, though currently not a significant concern for Egyptian Maus. Available testing:

  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) : Some Egyptian Maus may be prone to this heart condition, where the heart muscle thickens, potentially leading to heart failure.


  • Obesity : Due to their active nature, Egyptian Maus need proper exercise and a balanced diet to avoid Obesity, which can lead to other health issues.


  • Dental Issues : Like many Cat Breeds, the Egyptian Mau can be susceptible to dental disease if not properly cared for with regular brushing of Cat Teeth and check-ups.


  • Stress Sensitivity : Egyptian Maus can be sensitive to changes in their environment and may Experience Stress related behaviors, such as anxiety or Over Grooming.


DNA tests can determine the susceptibility of Egyptian Maus to pyruvate kinase deficiency.

Egyptian Mau Personality

The Egyptian Mau, a rare domestic Cat Breed known for its spotted tabby coat, exhibits playful and affectionate traits reminiscent of dogs. They enjoy games like fetch and have a surprising affinity for playing in water. These cats are loyal and friendly, seeking out laps to curl up on and warm spots to snuggle into, whether it's a Cat Cave Bed, Cat Blanket, or by the fire. Their unique vocalizations include chirps and chortles, creating a conversational ambiance while interacting with their beloved humans. Originating from ancient Egypt, the Egyptian Mau remains a cherished and distinctive breed in the cat fancy world, admired for its elegant appearance and engaging personality.

The Egyptian Mau roaming in a english garden.

Breed Rating

Family Friendly

1/5

Playfulness

3/5

Intelligence

4/5

Likes Other Pets

3/5

Grooming Needs

3/5

Shedding

2/5

Vocalize

2/5

History and Origins

Purportedly tracing its lineage to the street cats of ancient Egypt, the Egyptian Mau displays a striking resemblance to feline depictions in ancient Egyptian art. However, the breed was developed post World War II. Genetic studies place the Egyptian Mau among a group of Western derived breeds like the Maine Coon, Korat, and Turkish Angora.


By the 1990s, breeders had established networks worldwide, spanning the USA, Canada, Japan, and Europe. Despite this global presence, the Egyptian Mau did not arrive in the UK until 1998. Recognition by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy came in 2006. Today, the Mau remains a rare cat breed in Britain, with fewer than 200 kittens registered annually.

Outdoors or Indoors

The Egyptian Mau, a rare domestic Cat Breed with a distinctive spotted tabby coat, benefits from access to a fully secure garden or enclosed "catio," ideally available at all times. While they possess the agility to navigate outdoors, their friendly nature and striking appearance make them unsuitable for free, unsecured outdoor roaming. This breed, deeply rooted in ancient Egypt, remains cherished and rare within the cat fancy community, admired alongside breeds like the Turkish Angora for its unique characteristics and historical significance.

Enrichment and Special Requirements

The Egyptian Mau, celebrated for its distinctive spotted tabby coat, thrives on companionship and actively engages in overseeing human activities, often providing vocal commentary. To fulfill their needs, providing cat gyms, climbing frames, and comfortable sleeping areas is essential. As a rare domestic cat breed with roots in ancient Egypt and esteemed in the cat fancy community alongside breeds like the Turkish Angora, they seek interaction with their owners. Engaging in clicker training, using food dispensing toys for hunting stimulation, and incorporating interactive toys such as cat wand toys, remote controlled cat toys, wooden cat toys, and automatic cat toys enhances their mental and physical stimulation while fostering a strong bond with their human companions.

Nutrition and Feeding

Each Egyptian Mau, a distinctive domestic cat breed with a spotted tabby coat, has unique preferences, dislikes, and nutritional needs. As obligate carnivores, they require 41 specific nutrients from their diet, with proportions varying by age, lifestyle, and health status. For example, a young, energetic Mau kitten needs a different nutrient balance compared to an older, less active cat.


Find out more about Kitten Care with our article.


It's essential to feed them the right quantity of food to maintain their ideal body condition, following feeding guidelines. Catering to their preference for wet or dry food recipes is also crucial for their well being.


Find out more about Cat Nutrition with our article. 

Grooming your Egyptian Mau

Regular grooming with a pin or stiff bristle brush once a week helps maintain the Egyptian Mau's spot tabby coat and allows for inspection of minor skin injuries, fostering bonding time with your rare domestic cat. It's important to note that a greasy coat could indicate a cat's neglect of grooming, potentially signaling health issues. Like all cats, the Egyptian Mau, a breed with roots in ancient Egypt and valued in the cat fancy community alongside breeds like the Turkish Angora, benefits from Routine Vaccinations, Tick Control, and an annual veterinary health check up for optimal care.

Family Life Compatibility

The Egyptian Mau may be too skittish and sensitive for a bustling household with very young children. It's better suited to an older family where someone is home most of the time, especially with sensible older children. If you enjoy a cat that eagerly participates in your daily activities, rather than being just a decorative pet, the Egyptian Mau could be the perfect fit for you.

The Egyptian Mau Kitten playing with a father in the garden.

Egyptian Mau Fun Facts

  • Fastest Domestic Cat : The Egyptian Mau is one of the fastest domestic cat breeds, capable of running up to 30 miles per hour due to their powerful hind legs.


  • Unique Gait : Egyptian Maus have a distinctive "cheetah-like" gait, thanks to a flap of skin extending from their flank to their hind leg, giving them extra agility.


  • Naturally Spotted Coat : The Egyptian Mau is one of the few cat breeds with naturally occurring spots, and these spots are unique to each cat, much like a fingerprint.


  • An Ancient Lineage : Egyptian Maus are often associated with ancient Egypt, where cats were revered, and they are believed to be descendants of the sacred felines worshipped by the Egyptians.

FAQ

Which cat breeds are related to Egyptian Mau?

The Egyptian Mau shares some traits with other breeds, like the Ocicat , which also has a spotted coat, and the Bengal , known for its wild appearance and active nature. While not directly related, the Abyssinian may share ancient roots with the Mau, linked to the cats of Egypt. These breeds all reflect the elegance and energy of the Egyptian Mau.

Are Egyptian Mau cats cuddly?

Egyptian Mau cats can be cuddly, though it varies by individual. Egyptian Mau kittens tend to be playful, but as they mature, they often become more affectionate. Egyptian Mau females are known for being particularly loyal and may enjoy snuggling with their favorite person. Despite their energetic nature, these cats form strong bonds and love companionship.

What are the Egyptian Mau characteristics?

The Egyptian Mau characteristics include a sleek, muscular build, a striking naturally spotted coat, large almond-shaped green eyes, and a unique "cheetah-like" gait that allows them to move with speed and grace. Highly active and intelligent, they love interactive play and are known for their curiosity and agility. Despite their independence, they form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around and seeking affection. While moderately vocal, they are sensitive to their surroundings and thrive in calm, stable environments.

What does "Mau" mean in Egyptian Mau?

In the name Egyptian Mau, "Mau" is the Egyptian word for "cat." This reflects the breed's ancient origins, as cats were highly revered in ancient Egyptian culture. The name emphasizes the breed’s connection to Egypt and its status as one of the oldest domesticated cats.

Where can i find Egyptian Mau for sale?

If you're looking for an Egyptian Mau cat for sale , there are several options to explore. Reputable breeders often offer Egyptian Mau kittens for sale through specialized catteries, which can be found with a simple online search. For those in the UK, searching for " Egyptian Mau kittens for sale UK " or " Egyptian Mau kitten for sale UK " can lead you to breeders who specialize in this rare and unique breed. It's important to ensure that any breeder you choose follows ethical breeding practices and provides health guarantees for their kittens. Additionally, some breed-specific rescue organizations may occasionally have Egyptian Maus available for adoption.

What is the Egyptian Mau price?

The Egyptian Mau price UK can vary depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the kitten’s lineage, and whether the cat is intended for show or companionship. On average, the price for an Egyptian Mau kitten in the UK ranges from £800 to £1,500. Cats with exceptional pedigrees or rare color variations may command higher prices. It's essential to choose a reputable breeder who provides health checks, vaccinations, and proper documentation to ensure you're getting a well-cared-for kitten. Additionally, some rescue organizations may have Egyptian Mau cats available for a lower adoption fee.

What are the coat colors of the Egyptian Mau cat?

The coat colors of the Egyptian Mau cat come in several stunning variations. The most recognized shades are silver, bronze, and smoke Egyptian Mau , each with distinctive spots on their short, glossy fur. Less common, but still found, are the black Egyptian Mau and the blue Egyptian Mau , though these colors are not accepted in the show ring. In addition, there can be Egyptian Mau tabby mix cats, which may exhibit the Mau’s athletic build and personality traits while displaying a mix of tabby patterns. Each color variation adds to the unique beauty and charm of the breed.

Kelly with her Cat Edward Stafford

Kelly Rushton

Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.


About us
Back to blog