Egyptian Mau Cat: Breed Profile
The fastest domestic cat: naturally spotted, loyal and a little shy.
- Origin
- Egypt
- Size
- Medium
- Typical weight
- 3–5 kg (6–11 lb)
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short coat
- Best for
- Active adults
Temperament and personality
Egyptian Maus are loyal, sensitive and active. They bond closely with their family but are often reserved with strangers. They love to run, chase and play, and many "chortle" or chirp when happy.
They prefer calm, predictable homes and dislike sudden changes.
Size and appearance
One of the few naturally spotted domestic breeds, with a silver, bronze or smoke coat, "gooseberry green" eyes and a skin flap along the belly that helps them run.
Activity and enrichment
Very high. Plenty of room to run and chase and daily play sessions.
Coat care and grooming
Easy — weekly brushing.
Typical health concerns
Every cat is an individual, and most cats of any breed live long, healthy lives with good preventive care. These are the conditions most often discussed for this breed — ask a breeder for health-testing results and discuss screening with your vet.
- Generally healthy.
- Can be sensitive to temperature changes and stress.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) occasionally.
Who is the Egyptian Mau right for?
A good match if you…
- want an athletic, loyal cat
- have a calm household
Think twice if you…
- have lots of visitors or a chaotic home
- want a cat that loves strangers
Featured in: Low-Shedding Cat Breeds.
