Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is a medium-sized, naturally spotted shorthaired cat - one of the few naturally spotted breeds (not bred for spots through hybridisation as Bengals were).
Updated: October 2026
Overview
The Egyptian Mau is a medium-sized, naturally spotted shorthaired cat - one of the few naturally spotted breeds (not bred for spots through hybridisation as Bengals were). The breed traces directly to ancient Egyptian cats and is often described as the fastest domestic cat; the figure usually quoted is about 48 km/h (30 mph), which Wikipedia's breed article repeats while flagging its source as unreliable.
History & Origins
Cats nearly identical to the modern Mau appear in Egyptian art dating back over 3,000 years. The modern breed was rescued in the 1950s by Russian-born exiled princess Nathalie Troubetskoy, who imported Egyptian Maus to Italy and the US. CFA recognition came in 1977.
Appearance
Medium-sized, athletic. Adults weigh 3-5 kg (7-10 lb).
- Coat: short, lustrous, naturally spotted.
- Colour: silver, bronze, smoke (recognised by CFA). Black/melanistic exists but isn't shown.
- Spots: random, distinctly contrasted, on the body; "M" mark and "scarab" mark on the forehead.
- Eyes: gooseberry green (large, slightly slanted).
- Body: medium-length, athletic, with a "flap of skin" under the belly that allows extra leg extension at speed.
Temperament & Character
Active, affectionate, intelligent. Bonds intensely with family - often with one primary person. Reserved with strangers initially. Vocal but in a softer "chortling" register.
Care
Coat & Grooming
Very low-maintenance: weekly rub-down.
Clean ears monthly. Trim claws every 2 weeks. Brush teeth several times weekly.
Health & Lifespan
12-15 years.
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency - DNA test.
- Heart conditions in some lines.
- Heat intolerance - surprisingly limited despite Egyptian origins.
Exercise & Enrichment
High. The fastest domestic cat needs space, tall cat trees, and interactive play.
Pros & Cons
Pros: naturally spotted (no wild ancestry), athletic, intelligent, healthy. Cons: reserved with strangers; high exercise needs.
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Egyptian Mau - frequently asked questions
Are they related to Bengals?
No - Bengals are hybridised with wild Asian Leopard Cats. The Mau is purely domestic with natural spots.
How fast are they?
Often described as the fastest domestic cat - the figure usually quoted is about 48 km/h (30 mph) in short bursts, though it is not reliably sourced.
Are they good with kids?
With respectful older children.
Are they hypoallergenic?
No. The Egyptian Mau is not a hypoallergenic breed.
Test yourself: guess the cat
Three clues from our quiz bank, each about another of our cats. Can you name them?
Clue 1.Arising from a curly-coated stray near a Devon tin mine, this cat carries a different curl gene than its Cornish cousin.
It's the Devon Rex - read the full profile →
Clue 2.Looking like a miniature leopard, this energetic, muscular cat has bold rosettes or marbling and a love of climbing and play.
It's the Bengal - read the full profile →
Clue 3.Nicknamed the 'swimming cat,' this Turkish breed has a water-resistant coat and color restricted to its head and tail.
It's the Turkish Van - read the full profile →
Adoptable Egyptian Maus near you
Real cats of this breed (and close mixes) waiting in shelters and rescues right now, live from Petfinder. We have no affiliation and earn nothing - if someone catches your eye, the link goes straight to their shelter. New to adopting? Start with our adoption guide.
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