Egyptian Mau Cat - Breed Profile
Breed Description and Pictures Submitted by:
Stephanie & David Walkley
History
- The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat. Many other
breeds have used the Mau in their programs to improve the breed they are
creating. Often times Maus are
obtained to enhance fertility, improve pattern and maintain temperament
within hybrid programs.
The Egyptian Mau has been said to originate from Ancient Egypt. The
Egyptians worshiped cats and often mummified them. Bronze Maus are depicted
on ancient tomb walls and in texts like the Book of the Dead and the Ani
Papyrus.
In 1956, the first Egyptian Maus were brought to the United States by the
exiled Russian Princess Troubetskoy. In 1958, the first Egyptian Maus were
registered in CFF under the cattery name of Fatima. By 1977 CFA, the largest
registry of cats, accepted the Mau for registration.
Egyptian Maus are descendents of the African Wild Cat. From this they
directly receive their spotted features and exotic good looks. They are the
only naturally spotted domesticated cat and are fully endorsed by the Cat
Fanciers Association (CFA). Maus were worshipped as deities by the ancient
Egyptian people, and were considered as such cherished pets that they were
often mummified for a journey into the next world. To this day, Maus are an
extremely rare (though expanding) and valued member of the feline family.
Colors and Coats Types Available - The Egyptian Mau comes in Silver,
Bronze (Warm & Cold), and Smoke. Sometimes breeders may get blacks or the
dilute blues which can’t be shown but may be registered. Black can be
registered but aren’t recommended for use in breeding programs due to lack
of a clear pattern. Blues are normally found in programs that are using
recent Egyptian Import lines.
Grooming and Care - The grooming of a Mau is simple. Weekly grooming
and nail clipping is all that is necessary. Sometimes the nail clipping can
be a two person procedure. The biggest concern for the Mau is that it can
over eat. It is necessary to monitor your new addition to make sure it does
not pack on the pounds. A fat Egyptian Mau is not a healthy cat.
Best
Suitable Environment - Maus can be placed in just about any household.
It is best to work with a reliable and reputable breeder who will find the
match you need. Often times a retired adult may be best for a mature adult
family although if you have plenty of energy for a young kitten then that is
a match as well. Some breeders may shy from placing kittens with families
with young children. Others if they are reputable will find the perfect
kitten to fit that situation under appropriate supervision. Maus are
incredibly intelligent and can normally outwit the smartest youngster.
Personality Traits - They dote on their human
companions as if they were family. Few Maus will
 openly greet guests as they
tend to be quite shy of strangers. There are always those that break that
rule and will come to greet every person that enters the residence. Maus
love their toys. They actually "catalog" their toy's locations and guard
them carefully from others. Maus spend much of their time playing and
following their owners around similarly to dogs. Although some Maus prefer
not to be carried around, they may be lap lovers and newspaper readers on
the couch. Some Maus may hang around your neck and request daily walks while
perched there. Many play fetch with a little helpful inspiration (some will
train you). If you desire a constant companion, a playful though not
hyperactive disposition, and good morning/night kisses, then the Egyptian
Mau is for you.
This breed will absolutely take your breath away. Breeders
put a lot of work into raising these beautiful creatures and often times
prices may seem high but you are buying something priceless and something
that stems from ancient history.
Egyptian Mau Cat Breeders
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01/03/2010 |
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Egyptian Mau Description
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