Imagine walking down the street and coming across a cat with tabby fur. Would you think it was a cat or a tiger? If it is small and has a feline shape, it is an Egyptian Mau.
The Egyptian Mau is one of the most impressive and striking breeds because of its beautiful tabby coat; in this respect, it resembles Bengal cats. According to “CAT. The Encyclopedia. Definitive Visual Guide”, it is “the only domestic cat with a naturally spotted appearance”.
This breed originally descended from the stray cats of Cairo, Egypt. However, its development took place in the United States, where it has been seen at competitions. It arrived in Europe through Italy in 1950, from where it spread to other countries. However, it is a little-recognized breed in Europe.
Characteristics of the Egyptian Mau:
One of its striking characteristics is its silver tabby pattern, which stands out thanks to its greenish eyes, accentuated by the black rims of its eyelids.
We mentioned earlier that it is the only cat whose “spotted appearance is natural”. The spots are distributed across the body in an irregular and random pattern, except on the back, where they are arranged “in parallel lines”. In some cases, as noted in “CAT. The Encyclopedia. Definitive Visual Guide”, these parallel lines merge with the tail. Its coat is short and silky, and very soft.
Its build is small, but it has a naturally athletic physique and is very fast. These are strong cats considered to be among the fastest cats. One notable characteristic is the size of their eyes in relation to their small heads.
Regarding their personality, they are self-confident and very sociable cats. At the same time, they are family-oriented and domestic cats who love being with their families. In fact, according to “CAT. The Encyclopedia. Definitive Visual Guide”, they are known for “their somewhat unique laugh, which often sounds, when heard, as if they are communicating with their owners”.
They are sensitive to sudden changes in climate and low temperatures. This is one characteristic that requires particular attention to protect them from the cold.
Would you like to have an Egyptian Mau?
Would you like to have an Egyptian Mau but do not know whether it would adapt to your lifestyle? Below, we offer some advice based on its predominant characteristics:
- They are active cats that like to play and climb because of their hunting instinct. They need sufficient attention so they do not get bored, or alternatively, a large scratching post where they can play freely on their own.
- They are affectionate and family-oriented cats, so they will become another member of the family.
- Regarding care, attention should be paid to changes in temperature, as they are very sensitive to low temperatures. However, their feeding and daily care needs are basic.
In addition to all these characteristics, they are easy to integrate into the family because they adapt to any lifestyle.
Did you know this breed? If you have one, share your experience with us on social media.
Documentation source:
“CAT. The Encyclopedia. Definitive Visual Guide”, by Dorling Kindershley