Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau, originally from Egypt, is one of the oldest cat breeds and is believed to be descended from the cats worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. Physically, it is noted for its short, glossy coat with a mottled pattern and large, expressive, green eyes (a hallmark of the breed). They are active, intelligent and very affectionate cats, very attached to their owners.

General details

The Egyptian Mau is a medium-sized cat breed with a weight that varies between 4 and 6 kilograms for males and between 3 and 5 kilograms for females. These cats range in size from 25 to 30 centimeters in height and have a body length of approximately 30 to 45 centimeters. The life expectancy of the Egyptian Mau is usually between 10 and 15 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Breed history in brief

The Egyptian Mau is one of the oldest cat breeds, with origins dating back to the time of the ancient Egyptians, where they were revered and often depicted in art and mythology. The modern breed was rediscovered in the 1950s when a Russian princess, Nathalie Troubetskoy, brought some specimens from Egypt to Europe and then to the United States. Thanks to her work and selective breeding, the breed was established and recognized. TICA accepted it as a championship breed in 1979. Today, the Egyptian Mau is appreciated for its beauty and affectionate character.

Breed characteristics

The Egyptian Mau has an elegant and athletic body with hind legs slightly longer than the front legs. The head is rounded and wedge-shaped with a characteristic "M" shape on the forehead. The large, almond-shaped green eyes are set in a pattern that gives the breed a naturally concerned look. The ears are medium to large, broad at the base and pointed, and the tail is medium length and tapers toward the tip. The coat is short, glossy and silky, with a natural mottled pattern in colors such as bronze, silver and smoke, with well-defined dark spots. They are active cats, considered the fastest, playful, intelligent and very loyal.

Common health problems

The Egyptian Mau, although generally healthy, can be prone to certain common diseases including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, leukodystrophy (or Krabbe disease), urolithiasis, pyruvate kinase deficiency and respiratory infections.