Egyptian Mau

Breed Type: African
Common nicknames: Mau
Coat: Short-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, loyal, energetic
Life expectancy: 13-16 years
Color & patterns: Gray
Hero image
Egyptian Mau - gray
Egyptian Mau - gray
Though bedecked in a spotted coat that could rival a cheetah’s, the Egyptian Mau is hardly wild but rather boasts a lineage that can be traced back over 3,000 years to the ancient land of the pharaohs. Egyptian Maus are playful, alert, and exceptionally intelligent, with an endearing tendency to chatter to their humans in soft, melodious voices. They are also known for their impressive agility and speed – they’re among the fastest domestic cats around. When they’re not zooming about, Egyptian Maus love to cuddle up with their humans, making them wonderful family pets. They get along well with children and can be social with other pets. So, if you’re searching for a cat as charming and intelligent as they are steeped in history, the Egyptian Mau could be the cat for you.

Egyptian Mau characteristics

Learn about about Egyptian Mau basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Egyptian Mau facts.

Average height

8-10 inches (20.3-25.4cm)

Average weight

7-9 pounds (3.2-4.1 kg)

Average lifespan

13-16 years

Good with other cats
Needs spaceSocial butterfly
Good with dogs
Scaredy catHey, new pal!
Affection
Independent spiritLoves attention
Shedding
Bare-skinnedSuper shedder
Health
Prone to issuesGenerally healthy
Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
When do Egyptian Mau cats stop growing?

Egyptian Mau cats typically stop growing by the time they reach one to two years of age.

How long do Egyptian Mau cats live?

Egyptian Mau cats live 12 to 15 years on average, although with proper care, some can live into their late teens or even early 20s.

How big do Egyptian Mau cats get?

Egyptian Mau cats are medium-sized cats known for their muscular and athletic build. Adult Egyptian Mau cats usually stand about 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between eight and 12 pounds, with males somewhat larger than females.

What eye colors can an Egyptian Mau have?

Egyptian Mau cats have green eyes. The breed standard describes the color as gooseberry green (light green).

What color coats can Egyptian Mau cats have?

Egyptian Mau cats are the only naturally spotted domestic cat breed. They come in three coat colors: silver (a pale silver background with dark charcoal or black spots), bronze (a warm, bronze-colored background with dark brown or black spots), and smoke (a black-tipped coat with a silver undercoat, giving a smoky appearance).

How much do Egyptian Mau cats shed?

Egyptian Mau cats are considered low to moderate shedders. Their short, dense coat lies close to the body and typically sheds less than long-haired coats. Like many cats, Egyptian Maus might experience increased shedding during seasonal changes, such as spring and fall. Regular brushing can help manage this.

Egyptian Mau temperament

Learn about about the Egyptian Mau temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good with dogs?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are good with dogs, especially if they are properly introduced, and the dogs are calm, gentle, and non-aggressive. Egyptian Maus are friendly and adaptable, which can help them adjust to living with dogs. However, individual cats and dogs have their own personalities, and some might be more accepting or tolerant than others.

Early socialization of both the cat and the dog can make a significant difference. Providing safe spaces for the cat, where they can retreat if they feel threatened or overwhelmed, helps the cat feel secure and reduces stress.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good with other cats?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are good with other cats, especially if they are properly introduced and socialized from a young age. Egyptian Mau cats are social and can enjoy the company of other feline companions. Their active and playful nature means they can engage well with other cats, especially those with similar energy levels. 

Always introduce cats gradually and allow them to get used to each other's presence to help reduce stress and prevent conflicts. Ensure each cat has their own space, resources (like food bowls, litter boxes, and sleeping areas), and plenty of vertical space to help prevent territorial disputes.

Do Egyptian Mau cats meow a lot?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats meow a lot, but they aren’t quite as talkative as other breeds, such as the Siamese. Overall, Egyptian Maus are known to be communicative and expressive but not excessively noisy. Their vocalizations can be quite distinctive and include a variety of sounds, such as meows, chirps, trills, and chattering. The frequency and volume can vary depending on the individual cat’s personality.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good indoor cats?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are good indoor cats as long as they have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. Providing enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys, scratching posts, cat towers, perches, and interactive playtime, can help keep an Egyptian Mau mentally and physically stimulated indoors.

Are Egyptian Mau cats active?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are active. Their curiosity drives them to explore their environment. They enjoy investigating new objects and climbing to high places, which can keep them active and mentally stimulated. Toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and climbing structures are great for keeping Egyptian Mau cats entertained.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good hunters?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are good hunters. They have strong predatory instincts, which are enhanced by their agile and athletic build. While domestic Egyptian Mau cats might not need to hunt for their food, their natural hunting skills can still be seen in their play and interactions. Egyptian Mau cats enjoy interactive toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands or laser pointers. Providing them with stimulating toys and activities that cater to their hunting instincts can keep them mentally and physically engaged.

Are Egyptian Mau cats friendly?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are friendly and affectionate with their humans. These social cats enjoy the company of their family members and can get along well with other pets if properly introduced. Known for their loyalty, Egyptian Mau cats can be quite devoted and protective, often forming strong attachments to one or two specific people in the household.

With strangers, Egyptian Maus can be a bit reserved. Proper socialization from a young age can help them become more confident and outgoing. Overall, their affectionate and interactive nature makes them excellent companions for families and individuals.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good lap-cats?

No, Egyptian Mau cats are not good lap-cats in the typical sense; they might be more inclined to engage in play or exploration rather than lounging on a lap for extended periods. However, Egyptian Mau cats are affectionate and likely to appreciate and seek out close interactions with their human family members. If you enjoy having a cat who might curl up on your lap occasionally, an Egyptian Mau can be a great choice.

Are Egyptian Mau cats good pets?

Yes, Egyptian Mau cats are good pets for many reasons. They enjoy interacting with their families and can be very loving. Egyptian Mau cats are active and playful, making them engaging and entertaining pets. They are intelligent and curious, making them easy to train and responsive to new experiences. Egyptian Mau cats thrive in environments where they receive attention, playtime, and affection.

Are Egyptian Mau cats cuddly?

Egyptian Mau cats are moderately cuddly. They are affectionate and enjoy being close to their human companions, but their degree of cuddliness can vary based on individual personality. Although they are playful and energetic, Egyptian Mau cats also appreciate downtime and might enjoy cuddling when they are not actively playing. Some Egyptian Mau might prefer to hang out nearby, but not necessarily in constant physical contact.

Egyptian Mau health

Learn about about the Egyptian Mau health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do you need to groom an Egyptian Mau cat?

Yes, you need to groom an Egyptian Mau cat. Even though Egyptian Mau cats have a short coat, grooming is still beneficial. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding. Grooming sessions are also a good opportunity to check for any signs of health issues, such as skin conditions, parasites, or abnormalities. Egyptian Mau cats do not require frequent baths, but occasional baths might be necessary if they get particularly dirty or have a skin issue.

Regular nail trimming is important for your cat’s comfort and health. Long nails can cause discomfort or become snagged, so keep them trimmed as needed. Checking and cleaning their ears occasionally helps prevent ear infections and keeps them in good condition. Brush your cat’s teeth daily to prevent dental issues.

Are Egyptian Mau cats healthy?

While Egyptian Mau cats are generally healthy and robust, with no specific breed-related health issues that are common to them, they are not entirely free from common cat health issues. They might occasionally experience conditions such as:

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is an abnormal thickening of the left ventricle of the heart that leads to improper blood flow. It is the most common cause of heart disease in cats and can result in sudden death.

  • Dental issues: Like many cats, Egyptian Mau cats can develop dental problems, so regular dental care, including daily brushing, is important.

Are Egyptian Mau cats hypoallergenic?

No, Egyptian Mau cats are not hypoallergenic. Their short coat might shed less than long-haired breeds, but this does not eliminate the presence of dander and allergens. If you have cat allergies, it’s a good idea to spend time with an adult Egyptian Mau before adopting to see how you react.

Egyptian Mau history

Learn about where this Egyptian Mau came from!

Why are Egyptian Mau so rare?

Egyptian Mau cats are considered rare for several reasons. Compared to more common breeds, relatively few breeders specialize in Egyptian Maus. This limited breeding pool contributes to their rarity. Although the breed has ancient roots, the modern development of the Egyptian Mau is relatively recent. The breed was established in the mid-20th century and has not had as much time to proliferate as some other breeds.

Where are Egyptian Mau cats from?

Egyptian Mau cats are believed to be from Egypt. The breed is thought to have ancient roots, with depictions of similar spotted cats appearing in ancient Egyptian art and hieroglyphs. These cats were revered and often featured in various forms of Egyptian iconography. 

The modern Egyptian Mau’s roots can be traced to post-World War II Europe. By the end of the war, most Egyptian Maus were extinct, but the breed was revived through the help of a Russian princess named Nathalie Troubetzkoy. Troubetzkoy brought Egyptian Maus with her when she immigrated to the United States in the 1950s, where the breed was further developed and eventually recognized.

Find Egyptian Mau kittens near you

Adopting an Egyptian Mau

We don't see any Egyptian Maus available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

pet-photo

Speedy

Tabby
Male, adult
Columbus, OH
Color
Brown or Chocolate
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Speedy is a beautiful brown & black tabby. He is a very affectionate cat that loves to spend time cuddling with his humans and will do best in a single cat household or maybe with a family. Speedy lost his home after my mom passed away and my father was no longer able to care for him. After some relocating, Speedy is now looking for his forever home with a loving family that can shower him with affection. He can be a bit shy at first, but he has a big heart that makes him attached to those around him. He is an athletic cat that loves to play. Some of his favorite toys are strings, rattling mice and catnip sticks. He loves eating Churu treats and recently discovered the joys of being a lap cat! He is turning four on March 26.
pet-photo

Lulu

Tabby
Female, 2 yrs 7 mos
Pickerington, OH
Color
Brown Tabby
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Needs experienced adopter
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Lulu was rescued from a rural trailer park almost a year ago. She turned out to be heavily pregnant, and she gave birth to the Willy Wonka litter almost immediately, once placed in a foster home. Now, her kittens have been adopted, and she has received veterinary care, and she’s ready to find her forever home! She’s estimated to be about 2-3 years old, and she’s sweet and playful. Ideally, we think Lulu would love to be an only pet. Lulu has been vaccinated and tested negative for FIV/FeLV. She’s also been spayed and microchipped. If you're located in Ohio, and you’re interested in meeting Lulu, please submit an application online via https://www.forgotten4paws.com/adopt-adoptform. Applicants can also request to foster-to-adopt (meaning a cat can be fostered on a trial basis before making a decision to adopt). If you have any questions, send an email to contactusforgotten4paws@yahoo.com.
pet-photo

Sam

Tabby
Male, 3 yrs 3 mos
Pickerington, OH
Color
Orange or Red Tabby
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
This orange tabby kitty needs a foster or adoptive home! If you aren’t able to foster/adopt, please help by sharing this post! Sam was the last cat left at a colony, and he’s located in the Columbus area. He’s affectionate, playful, and chatty, and he’s estimated to be about 3 years old. He’s been neutered, he’s current on vaccinations, and he tested negative for FeLV and positive for FIV. If located in Ohio and interested in meeting or adopting Sam, submit an application at https://www.forgotten4paws.com/adopt-adoptform. Email contactusforgotten4paws@yahoo.com with any questions. For more info on FIV, check out these links - https://www.alleycat.org/resources/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv/ and https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv.
pet-photo

Puddin’

Tabby
Male, adult
Pickerington, OH
Color
Brown Tabby
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Puddin’ needs a foster or adoptive home! If you can’t adopt or foster, please help by sharing his post! As you can probably tell from his photo, this tabby cat was rescued from a rough life outdoors. He’s now living in a temporary foster home in the Columbus area, and he’s been FIV/FeLV tested, vaccinated, and neutered. Note that he is FIV positive, and we plan to schedule surgery on his right eye soon. If located in Ohio and interested in meeting, fostering, or adopting Puddin’, submit an application at https://www.forgotten4paws.com/adopt-adoptform. Email contactusforgotten4paws@yahoo.com with any questions. For more info on FIV, check out these links - https://www.alleycat.org/resources/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv/ and https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv.
pet-photo

Barbie & Ken

Tabby
Male, 6 mos
Pickerington, OH
Color
Tan or Fawn Tabby
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Barbie and Ken are a bonded pair and need to be adopted together. These siblings are very sweet and love to be cuddled and love to play. They are great with other cats, dogs and kids.
pet-photo

Provolone

Tabby
Male, 9 mos
Pickerington, OH
Color
Tiger Striped
Size
(when grown) null
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Provolone is a sweet kitten who is energetic and playful. He loves to snuggle and be petted and is great with kids, cats and dogs.