Origin and History
The Egyptian Mau is one of the few naturally spotted breeds of domestic cat, and it is often cited as the oldest domesticated cat breed. The Mau’s history traces back thousands of years in Egypt, where cats were revered, and their images can be found in ancient Egyptian art, depicting spotted cats that closely resemble today’s Egyptian Mau. These cats were considered sacred in ancient Egyptian society, often associated with gods and goddesses and believed to bring good luck.
The modern Egyptian Mau was developed in Europe and North America from cats that were brought out of Egypt in the mid-20th century. Princess Nathalie Troubetskoy, with the help of other breeders, played a significant role in establishing the breed outside of Egypt, starting with a cat named Baba that she brought from Egypt to Italy and then to the United States.
Appearance
The Egyptian Mau is medium-sized, with a graceful, muscular body that is notably athletic. They can be easily identified by their striking spotted coat, which is unique among domestic cats. The spots can be of various shapes and sizes and are randomly distributed across the body, with the background color typically being silver, bronze, or smoke. Maus have a distinctive “M” shaped mark on their forehead, sometimes referred to as the mark of the scarab.
Their eyes are large, almond-shaped, and gooseberry green, set under a slightly worried brow, giving them an engaging appearance. The legs are proportionately long, contributing to their remarkable speed and agility. Egyptian Maus are one of the few cat breeds with a naturally occurring spotted coat, and their abdomen is also spotted, which is a unique feature among domestic cats.
Personality and Temperament
The Egyptian Mau is known for its friendly and loyal disposition. They are highly social and enjoy the company of their human families, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Maus are also noted for their vocal behavior, communicating with soft chirps and meows to express their feelings and desires.
These cats have a playful and active nature, enjoying games that allow them to demonstrate their hunting skills and agility. They are known to be exceptionally fast runners, thanks to their powerful hind legs. The Egyptian Mau also appreciates high perches and outdoor views, though they should be kept indoors or in a secure outdoor area to protect them from dangers.
Health
Egyptian Maus are generally healthy, but, like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues. Their genetic diversity tends to provide them with a robust constitution. However, breed-specific health concerns can include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition that is common in many breeds of cats. Regular veterinary check-ups can help ensure they live a healthy and long life, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years or more.
Careful breeding practices are essential for maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the Egyptian Mau. Breeders should screen for common feline health issues to ensure the long-term health of the breed.
In summary, the Egyptian Mau is a fascinating and ancient breed, admired for its unique spotted coat, athletic build, and engaging personality. They make affectionate and playful companions, suitable for families and individuals alike who can provide them with the attention and activity they thrive on.
