Egyptian Mau

Egypt · ancient; USA 1956

Naturally spotted sprinter — loyal but shy

SizeMedium6–11 lb
Life span12–15 years
CoatShort, spotted
Typical price$1,000–$2,500

Egyptian Maus are one of the few naturally spotted domestic breeds, with gooseberry-green eyes and an elegant, muscular body. They are among the fastest domestic cats.

At a glance

EnergyNon-stop
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldFriendly
TalkativeQuiet
GroomingMinimal
SheddingAverage
With kidsGood
With petsGood
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneHalf a day

Life with an Egyptian Mau

They are active, playful and very devoted to their family, but often reserved with strangers. Many chirp and wag their tail when happy. They like routine and dislike loud chaos.

Great for
  • Active people who want a loyal cat
  • Calm households
  • Homes with climbing space
Think twice if
  • Frequent loud guests and chaos
  • You want a cat everyone can cuddle
Care tips
  • Weekly brushing.
  • Room to run and climb.
  • Introduce new people slowly and quietly.

Health

Generally healthy. Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK-def, a type of anemia) occurs in the breed. They can be sensitive to stress.

Ask the breeder for
  • PK-def DNA test
  • Heart scan (echocardiogram) of the parents
Typical US price$1,000–$2,500
RegistriesCFA · TICAAsk for both parents’ papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Egyptian Mau kittens

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Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.