Egyptian Mau

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Need to Know

  • Suitable for an experienced owner
  • Enjoys playing games and is active at home
  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Independent but friendly
  • Slightly talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat
  • Requires regular grooming
  • Indoor and outdoor cat
  • Not ideal for family homes
  • Can be regularly left alone for a few hours
  • Needs a calm environment
Egyptian Mau cat breed forward standing  view against a white background

Personality

Egyptian Mau cats are known for their dog-like playfulness. These social cats are loyal and crave human interaction, often seeking out warm laps or cozy spots to curl up. Another distinctive characteristic is their expressive voice; they communicate with their humans through a variety of chirps and chatters, creating a bond built on conversation and companionship.

While they bear striking resemblance to cats depicted in ancient Egyptian art, genetic evidence places Egyptian Maus within a group of Western-derived breeds akin to the Maine CoonKorat, and Turkish Angoras. Developed after World War II, the breed gained popularity worldwide by the 1990s and is considered a rare breed today. 

An Egyptian Mau cat is the perfect cat for someone who’s got plenty of energy to keep up with their playful personality. As smart as they are cute, these felines adore attention and affection, so they're best suited for owners who can give them lots of love, playtime, and room to explore.

Egyptian Mau cats are social butterflies who crave mental and physical stimulation. While providing them with plenty of climbing and lounging spots is a great start, it's their interaction with you that truly enriches their lives. Try engaging them with interactive toys, clicker training, or even "fishing" games to tap into their natural hunting instincts.

Egyptian Maus are natural explorers and love being outside, but their friendly and striking appearance makes them vulnerable to outdoor dangers. It's essential to provide these active felines with a fully enclosed space, like a catio, so they can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without risking harm.

Egyptian Mau cats are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A regular brushing session with a pin or stiff bristle brush is usually enough to keep their coat shiny and healthy. This routine also gives you a chance to check for any hidden injuries or skin issues.

Egyptian Maus are known for being highly trainable cats. Their intelligence and playful nature make them quick learners. They enjoy interactive games, can learn tricks and commands, and can even be trained to walk on a leash.

Egyptian Mau cats are sensitive souls who thrive in calmer environments. While they can adapt to family life, they're best suited for homes with older children who understand how to gently interact with them. These cats are very involved in their human's lives and require a family member who can dedicate quality time to their playful and curious nature.

The cost of an Egyptian Mau from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.

puppies and kittens

Learn more about feeding and caring for your Egyptian Mau on Purina.

Did you know?

  • Egyptian Mau cats can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, making them the fastest domestic cat breed.
  • Many Egyptian Maus love water. Don't be surprised if your furry friend enjoys splashing around or even playing fetch with water toys.
  • Egyptian Mau cats have a spotted coat pattern that is naturally occurring, making them one of the few naturally spotted cat breeds.