1. The Origin of the Egyptian Mau
This particularly beautiful cat breed originates from ancient Egypt, around four thousand years ago. Cats were already an important animal back then, not because of their companionship, as they are valued for today, but because they protected their people. They killed dangerous snakes and caught the mice that ate their grain. These cats had a good life—they were full members of the family, received delicious food, and had high status. If you mistreated a cat, you could expect the death penalty.
In 1956, a Russian princess brought her Egyptian Maus to America and bred the breed there. In 1958, these cats were officially recognized as a breed and are still very popular with cat lovers today.
2. The Personality of the Egyptian Mau
Egyptian Maus are smart, active, and especially very social. They love being surrounded by their people and other four-legged family members. Because they are so active, you can’t get away with just a few simple cat toys. No, this breed needs challenge and variety. You provide that by investing in exciting cat toys and games that allow them to use their intelligence. And a cat tree for active cats.
3. The Appearance and Coat of the Egyptian Mau
The build of Egyptian Maus is elegant, sporty, and slim. They stand tall on their legs and have beautiful green eyes that sometimes resemble gooseberries. Because of the position of their eyes and eyebrows, it looks like the Mau is often serious. But that’s not the case, as this cat breed is cheerful and always enthusiastic. Their coat is just as beautiful—it’s silky soft, short, and has spots or stripes.
4. Caring for the Egyptian Mau
Because the coat of these cats is so short and soft, it doesn’t require much maintenance. A monthly brushing is enough. The rest, they handle themselves. But, of course, they are still a pet and need to be well cared for. And you do that with:
- A safe home
- Lots of love and attention (preferably not leaving them alone for too long)
- Fresh water and high-quality food every day
- Always clean litter boxes with good litter
- Plenty of toys and a soft cat bed
- A cat tree that suits the personality of an Egyptian Mau
- Protection against worms, fleas, and ticks
- Regular visits to the vet
- Vaccinations against cat diseases
Fun fact: An Egyptian Mau is curious and loves to get involved in everything!
Discover here what the care of a cat roughly costs
5. The Health of the Egyptian Mau
Pedigree cats are bred for unique characteristics. The Egyptian Mau also has traits that make it special, such as:
- Slender, elegant, and sporty build
- Short coat with spots or stripes
- Long legs
Do you think an Egyptian Mau might be a good fit for you? Make sure to thoroughly research the health of this breed. Many pedigree cats are prone to hereditary conditions. For example, Egyptian Mau cats have a higher risk of developing Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), an infectious inflammation of the abdominal lining. It’s important to be aware of this.
Want to bring a healthy cat into your home? Consult a veterinarian for advice. You can also check the websites of Dier & Recht and the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority for information on the breed’s health, its legal status, and regulations for breeders.
Always buy an Egyptian Mau from a reputable breeder, preferably one affiliated with a breed association. This ensures that the cat is healthy and well cared for. Always ask the breeder for health documentation or a guarantee for extra peace of mind.
6. How long does an Egyptian Mau live?
Egyptian Maus, like other pedigree cats, live on average 12 years.
7. Buying an Egyptian Mau (Kitten)
Do you want to buy an Egyptian Mau kitten? Visit an accredited breeder, preferably one affiliated with a breed association. This ensures that you’re buying a healthy, well-socialized cat that has been bred in an animal-friendly manner. Always ask for the papers, a health certificate, and check the kitten’s parents. Also, take a look at the breeder’s facility: is it clean and homely, and are the parents present? These are good signs. Avoid buying cats from marketplaces like Marktplaats, eBay, or from unlicensed breeders.
An Egyptian Mau kitten from a good breeder costs around 1200 euros. Looking for a cat, but don’t need a pedigree one? Consider checking shelters or adoption agencies. Many loving cats are waiting for a new home.
And remember: you don’t get a cat for just a short time, but for a whole cat’s life. Are you ready to care for the animal and set aside money for its care and vet visits? Then the Egyptian Mau might just become your new best friend!
Read all about the beautiful Maine Coon here!
Disclaimer: Petrebels is geen dierenarts of gedragsdeskundige: alle content, informatie en tips op dit blog zijn bedoeld om je te inspireren en hebben een informatief karakter. Heeft je kat klachten of problemen? Of twijfel je over de gezondheid van je kat? Ga dan altijd naar de dierenarts of een gedragsdeskundige.
