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 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.

• Life Span 12 - 15 years.
• Average Weight 2.7kg to 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.

1. The Egyptian Mau requires an owner with experience
2. Thrives on interactive play and is energetic indoors
3. Highly active and curious feline
4. Egyptian Mau's are independent yet sociable
5. Moderately vocal
6. Graceful and slender in appearance
7. The Egyptian Mau needs weekly grooming
8. Prefers a mix of indoor and outdoor access
9. Not suited for homes with young children
10. Egyptian Mau's can be left alone for short periods
11. The Egyptian Mau requires a tranquil environment

Typically resilient 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:

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

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 laptop case, duvet, 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.

• Family-friendly:  1/5
• Playfulness:  3/5
• Intelligence:  4/5
• Tendency to Vocalize:   2/5
• Likes Other Pets:  3/5
• Grooming needs:  3/5
• Shedding:  2/5

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 Egyptian Mau remains a rare cat breed in Britain, with fewer than 200 kittens registered annually.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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, parasite control, and an annual veterinary health check up for optimal care.

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.

• What does "Mau" mean?

"Mau" is the Egyptian word for cat.

• Do Egyptian Maus like water?

Yes, many Egyptian Maus enjoy playing with water and may even join their owners in the shower or bath.

• Do Egyptian Maus get along with other pets?

With proper socialization, they can get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats.

• How much exercise do Egyptian Maus need?

They are active cats that enjoy climbing, playing, and exploring. Providing them with toys and interactive play sessions helps meet their exercise needs.

• Do Egyptian Maus like to cuddle?

Yes, many Egyptian Maus enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners, but they also appreciate their independence.

• Are Egyptian Maus rare?

Yes, they are considered a rare breed, particularly in certain regions like the UK, with fewer than 200 kittens registered annually.

• Where can I find a reputable Egyptian Mau breeder?

Look for breeders affiliated with cat registries like TICA (The International Cat Association) or GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy) and ask for references to ensure ethical breeding practices.