The Egyptian Mau is a fascinating cat, not only because of its past history, but because of its delightful personality and striking appearance.
The name of the breed derived from the Egyptian word for cat. It is the only naturally spotted breed of domestic cat in the world and experts believe that the mixed breeding with a sub species of wild cat was probably responsible for the unique coat pattern. In ancient Egypt it was considered almost god-like and cat killers were sentenced to death. Pictures of the Egyptian Mau can be found on many hieroglyphics, and it still exists as a semi wild cat in Egypt.
The Egyptian Mau is an active cat of medium size with well-developed muscles. It is a graceful mover described as having "cheetah-like stride". The body is randomly spotted with banded legs and tail. Large, expressive almond eyes set under pattern frown marks create a "worried" look that adds appeal to its pretty face.
Despite their elegance, the Mau is a cat of tremendous strength. They are considered to be the fastest breed of domestic cat. Some have been recorded running at over 30mph.
The Egyptian Mau is a cat that likes company. Extremely intelligent cats, they place a great deal of importance on their human family and are noted for their fiercely loyal and passionate devotion to their owners. They are active cats that like to exercise. A Mau will communicate by chortling in a soft melodious voice and with a characteristic wiggle of the tail. Egyptian Mau owners know they have a very special cat.
Oitamonsoon Amelia (Topaz), one of our Egyptian Mau queens
The Egyptian Mau is always spotted and comes in three colours: bronze, silver and smoke. The bronze has dark brown to seal spots on a dark to lighter bronze background. Silver colour has black spots on a pure silver white background, with Smoke colour having black spots on a smoke background. The coat colour can take several months to fully develop.
The spots on a Mau are random in their distribution over the body and vary in size as well as shape. they can be round, oval or irregular or a mixture of all three. Broken necklaces on the chest, spots on the stomach and an "M" on the forehead complete the pattern. Eyes are expressive, almond-shaped goosebery green and can take over a year to reach their full colour.
Topaz showing off her lovely markings
