The Egyptian Mau Cat Breed: Rare Spotted Beauty & History
The Egyptian Mau is one of the rare domestic cat breeds known for its naturally spotted coat and ancient origins. This breed boasts a history dating back over 3,000 years, depicted in Egyptian artwork that shows the breed’s distinctive features have remained much unchanged. Although the Mau’s exotic looks may suggest a hybrid between domestic and wild cats, it is actually a naturally occurring breed rather than a result of crossbreeding or selective pairing.
The History of the Egyptian Mau
Egyptian Maus have been present since before the Christian era, revered in days when cats were worshipped as gods. The name “Mau” derives from the Egyptian word for cat, “mw.” Ancient paintings often depict the Mau alongside hunters, suggesting the breed’s role in hunting birds. Remarkably, the Mau’s vocal abilities can mimic bird sounds, helping it to lure prey without scaring them away while waiting for hunters to approach.
The modern development and global spread of the Egyptian Mau began in the 1950s, when Princess Natalie Troubetskya of Russia obtained several Maus from the Egyptian ambassador to Italy and started breeding them outside Egypt.
Coat Patterns and Colour Variations
Egyptian Maus have striking green eyes, although kittens and juveniles may display amber eyes until about 18 months old. Their foreheads often feature a distinct “M” or scarab-shaped marking. Their coats are naturally spotted, with fine lines and bars permitted on the legs and tail. They come in silver, smoke, bronze, black, and blue/pewter variants, though only silver, smoke, and bronze Maus are suitable for showing. Black and blue/pewter Maus are used for breeding but not exhibition.
Unique Traits and Personality
Known as the fastest domestic cat, the Egyptian Mau can reach speeds over 30mph. This speed is thanks to unique physical traits such as longer hind legs than front legs and an extra flap of skin from the knee to the flank that enables a longer stride and impressive agility.
These cats are also famous for their diverse vocalisations, including chirps, trills, and various unique sounds, often compared to but even more varied than the Siamese cat’s repertoire.
Another charming behaviour is the “Mau dance,” a joyful tail-twitching stance sometimes mistaken for scent marking but actually unrelated to it, shown by both males and females regardless of neutering status.
Rarity and Availability
The Egyptian Mau remains relatively rare outside Egypt, with fewer than 300 kittens registered annually by the UK’s Governing Council of the Cat Fancy. In the USA, approximately 7,000 Egyptian Maus are registered.
In Egypt, Maus are common domestic and street cats rather than pedigree animals, meaning that full Egyptian Maus from their native country aren’t recognised as pedigrees by international breed organisations. Thus, imported Maus usually require being four generations removed and expert approval before pedigree registration and breeding.
Because of breeding and export challenges, Egyptian Maus can be hard to find for sale in the UK and might require joining a breeder’s waiting list. However, non-pedigree or early generation Maus, often descended from imported cats but not fully pedigree, can sometimes be easier to source.
To explore options for find Egyptian Mau kittens for sale, Pets4Homes offers listings that may suit prospective owners.
Responsible Ownership and Care
If considering an Egyptian Mau, remember they are active and agile cats needing stimulating environments with climbing opportunities and playtime to keep healthy and happy. Their short coats are low maintenance but regular grooming is advised.
Providing a calm household benefits their sensitive nature, supporting their loyal and affectionate temperament. Ethical sourcing from reputable breeders or rescue organisations ensures the welfare of the breed and responsible ownership.
Summary Table of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small to medium |
| Coat | Short, dense, naturally spotted |
| Eye Colour | Green (amber in kittens up to 18 months) |
| Distinctive Markings | "M" or scarab mark on forehead |
| Speed | Fastest domestic cat, >30 mph |
| Personality | Active, playful, loyal, vocal, sensitive |
| Origin | Ancient Egypt, revived 1950s |
| Rarity | Under 300 kittens registered annually in UK |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Egyptian Mau unique among cat breeds?
Quick Answer: The Egyptian Mau is unique for its naturally spotted coat, remarkable speed, and distinctive vocalisations combined with an ancient heritage.
Its natural spots set it apart from most domestic cats, while it is considered the fastest domestic cat due to physical adaptations like longer hind legs and a skin flap allowing greater stride. Their vocal sound range is extensive and characteristic of the breed, making them expressive companions. This combination of physical and behavioural traits, along with history dating back 3,000 years, gives the Mau a special place among cat breeds.
How rare is the Egyptian Mau in the UK?
Quick Answer: Under 300 Egyptian Mau kittens are registered annually with the UK's Governing Council of the Cat Fancy, making it a rare breed in the UK.
Relative to other breeds, the Mau's small registered population highlights its rarity. While common as non-pedigree cats in Egypt, export and breeding restrictions limit numbers outside its homeland. Prospective owners may need to be patient and connect with reputable breeders or consider non-pedigree Maus if pedigree status is less critical.
Where can I find a reputable Egyptian Mau kitten for sale?
Quick Answer: Reputable Egyptian Mau kittens for sale usually come from British breeders who carefully maintain breed standards and health checks; waiting lists are common due to limited availability.
Because the breed is rare and breeding is limited, finding a genuine, healthy Egyptian Mau kitten requires diligence. It is important to seek breeders who prioritise the cat’s health and temperament and adhere to ethical breeding practices. Be wary of sellers without pedigrees or those selling non-pedigree cats as Mau, unless that fits your intentions. The Egyptian Mau kitten listings on Pets4Homes can be a useful resource.
