Egyptian Mau Cats: Breed Profile

History: The Egyptian Mau (mau is the Egyptian word for cat) is the cat depicted in ancient Egyptian artwork. The cat was very much a part of Egyptian culture. It was both worshipped as a god and cherished as a pet. Their deaths were mourned, and their bodies mummified after they died. This cat was domesticated from the African wild cat long ago.

The breed first appeared in the United States when Nathalie Troubetskoy, an exiled Russian princess, imported them in 1956. Two of these beautiful cats were bred at the Fatima Cattery and until recent times, all of the North American Egyptian Maus were descended from those cats. Recently Egyptian Maus have been imported to the United States to increase the available gene pool for breeding. The Egyptian Mau received championship status from the Cat Fanciers' Association in 1977.

Appearance: The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat. The spotting is random, and the limbs are banded. The cheeks are barred, and there are necklace like markings on the chest. The large, almond shaped eyes are always green, slanting towards the ears, and the face appears to have a worried expression. Some kittens are born with amber colored eyes that change to green by 18 months of age. The Mau has a unique cheetah like gait. This breed is available is three colors, bronze, silver, and smoke. Their bodies are medium sized and muscular. The ears are medium to large, alert, and may be tufted. The tail is of medium length and tapered with a wide base coming to a narrow point. The coats are medium in length and shiny.

Personality: The Egyptian Mau is a fiercely loyal cat. It will protect its owners and any other cats that are in its family. It may also protect other family pets and will defend its toys. It is likely to attack when it feels that it or its family is threatened. It is not as active as some breeds but not inactive either. Maus are curious, love playing with toys, and often seem to read their owners' minds, anticipating their actions. When Maus are happy they chortle, tread their toes, and wiggle their tails rapidly. Maus are shy or aggressive with new people and in new situations. They need an adjustment period when moving to a new home.

Care: Like all cats, the Egyptian Mau needs a continual supply of fresh water, high quality cat food, and a clean litter box. They also need room to run, and safe places to climb and scratch. This cat should be kept indoors. It is not prepared to deal with the dangers presented outdoors. Because of its aggressive nature, it is important that the Maus be well socialized preferably as kittens.