Physical Attributes
The Egyptian Mau is a long cat although she tends to be medium in size, with the males larger than the females. The Mau is heavily muscled and strong. A wedge-shaped, but soft head sits atop her muscular body. The forehead features an “M” shape, and her cheeks have “mascara” lines, all of which create a slightly “worried” look. Medium-to-large ears top the wedge-shaped head. Her spots range from small to large and vary in shape. The hind legs are longer than the front and she has small, delicate feet. Her tail is long and banded with a dark tip. The Egyptian Mau’s spotted coat comes in 3 different colors: silver, bronze or smoke, which is black-tipped, pale silver fur. The breed can come in several other colors, including solid black, blue silver, blue spotted, blue smoke and solid blue, but they aren’t allowed in the show ring. In addition to their unique spots, Maus also have large, uniquely colored eyes in what many refer to as “gooseberry green”.
Personality Traits
Maus like to sit up high and survey their surroundings. They usually act as if they are in complete control of their environment. They are extremely strong and very active. But they have a very balanced temperament. Egyptian Maus are great jumpers and climbers, and should have perches and cat trees to make their own. If these are not provided, the Mau will create her own perch on the top of the refrigerator or on bookcases.
The Egyptian Mau is an easy cat when it comes to care. She likes being brushed, and brushing can easily be made a part of regular playtime.
Historical Background
Although the breed’s exact origins aren’t known, ancient Egyptian texts and paintings dating back to 1550 BC depict spotted cats worshipped by the Egyptians. Although the breed was recorded in Europe prior to World War II, the war nearly wiped out the Egyptian Maus. Natalie Troubetskoy, a Russian princess, was gifted a silver female kitten while living in Rome.
She named her “Baba”, and when she moved to the U.S. in 1956, Baba and her two kittens tagged along. To ensure the breed’s survival, Troubetskoy developed a standard and began breeding the Egyptian Maus. The breed was recognized by the Cat Fanciers Federation in 1968, followed by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1977 and The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1979. It’s recognized by most associations today.
EGYPTIAN MAU AT A GLANCE
Weight range:
Male: medium: 8-12 lbs.
Female: medium: 8-12 lbs.
Eye colour: Green
Longevity Range: 9-13 yrs.
Social/Attention Needs: High, Moderate
Tendency to Shed: Moderate
COAT:
Length: Short
Characteristics: Silky, Smooth
Colors: Silver, Bronze, Smoke
Pattern: Spots, Smoke
Less Allergenic: No
Overall Grooming Needs: Low
CLUB RECOGNITION:
Cat Association Recognition:
CFA, ACFA , FIFe, TICA
Prevalence: Rare
