Egyptian mau

Overall description of the breed

The Egyptian Mau, originating from Egypt as its name suggests, is present in relics and drawings that attest to its existence, dating back to an Egyptian tomb from 1567 BC. Related to the Abyssinian cat, it possesses a magnificent coat, and both are among the oldest domesticated feline species, evolving entirely naturally without human intervention. They compete for the title of cats of the Pharaohs.

Adored and revered since antiquity, the Egyptian Mau was considered a deity by the people and Egyptian rulers due to its protective role of defending food reserves, which it fiercely guarded against pests. The Egyptians saw the Mau as a protector against evil spirits and cherished it as a precious companion in their daily lives.

The ancestors of the Egyptian Mau go back thousands of years. They were represented in Egyptian art, especially in wall paintings and sculptures, where their elegant silhouette and distinctive spots were accurately captured. Egyptian legends tell that the Egyptian Mau was associated with the goddess Bastet, the goddess of home, fertility, and protection.

Although widespread in Europe in the 20th century, World War II almost caused its extinction. Fortunately, a few specimens were preserved in Italy, and thanks to the efforts of a Russian diplomat and her imported male, the breed survived. The Russian princess continued her work in the United States, where she further developed the breed, initially under the name "Egyptian".

It is renowned for its unique and graceful morphology. It has a muscular and well-proportioned body with long, slender legs. Its most distinctive feature is its spotted coat, resembling natural leopard spots. Each spot has a different shape and size, adding to its exotic charm.

The coat of the Egyptian Mau can come in various colors, from bronze to silver to gold. The spots often contrast with the base color of the coat, creating a captivating pattern that exudes elegance and royalty.

The breed is known for its gentle and affectionate character. It is loyal and attached to its family. While it can be reserved towards strangers, it forms close bonds with those familiar to it. The Egyptian Mau is also intelligent and playful, enjoying interactive games and mental challenges.

The Egyptian Mau weighs on average between 3.5 and 6.5 kg. Its size usually varies between 25 and 35 cm at the shoulders.

The popularity of the Egyptian Mau has exploded overseas, and in 1977, it was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), marking the beginning of its spread across the world.

This majestic cat is widely recognized and cherished worldwide. Its historical and cultural significance, coupled with its beauty and charming character, make it one of the most iconic and respected feline breeds.

In conclusion, the Egyptian Mau embodies the ancient heritage of Egypt and continues to enchant cat lovers with its beauty and unique character. Its role in Egyptian history and culture makes it a feline breed worthy of celebration and preservation. As it continues to capture hearts around the world, the Egyptian Mau testifies to the deep connection between humans and cats for millennia.