We find in the Egyptian mau one of the most elegant cats that exist. Its history is linked to the dynasty of the pharaohs, a great empire that appreciated the figure of the cat as that of an almost divine being. The word "mau" is Egyptian, and means cat, that is, the Egyptian cat. In the ancient Egyptian civilization, cats were revered figures and were protected as sacred animals. Killing one of these animals was punishable by death.
Numerous hieroglyphics were dedicated to the created breed that was selected by the Egyptians themselves to shape feline beauty. Their ancestors date back more than 4,000 years, so we could be talking about the oldest cat breed. It was Princess Natalia Troubetzkoi who, in the 1950s, introduced the Egyptian Mau to Rome, a cat that had a wonderful reception for its beauty and history. Currently we can find feral specimens living in the vicinity of the Nile River.
Physical appearance
In the Egyptian mau we highlight a cat mottled in dark colors that stands out against the light background of its coat. These are rounded and defined spots that populate all their fur. The body of the Egyptian mau reminds us of that of the Abyssinian cat, although it is more elongated, muscular and of medium height. We found a genetic detail in its body: the hind legs are longer than the front ones. Their paws are small and delicate and require extra care, something we'll discuss below.
Finally, note that the Egyptian Mau cat has large slanted eyes that curve slightly upwards. Eye color can range from light green to amber.
Behaviour
We find in the Egyptian mau a very independent cat, although it will depend on the specific case. However, it is a wonderful cat to have in our home since it adapts wonderfully to coexistence and when it gains confidence it is an affectionate cat. Although its character is independent, the Egyptian Mau cat is a possessive animal that will love that we pay attention to it, provide it with toys and extra food.
He has a hard time relating to strangers with whom he will be reserved (and may even ignore them), even so, some character traits may make him want to be caressed. We must get him used to meeting new people.
Usually we talk about a calm and peaceful cat although we must be careful if we have other pets at home such as hamsters, birds and rabbits: it is a good hunter.
Care
The Egyptian Mau cat does not need excessive care, it is enough to pay attention to its coat and brush it two to three times a week, in this way it will achieve a shiny and silky coat, beautiful by nature. A premium diet will ensure the beauty of its coat.
In addition to the fur, we will pay attention to other aspects, these of a more routine nature such as: removing his legañas, checking him periodically and trimming his nails.
He alth
The mau cat's he alth is somewhat fragile since it does not accept sudden changes in temperature very well, for this reason inside the home we must maintain a stable temperature as far as possible.
Sometimes you tend to be obese, we need to monitor your food and make sure you exercise regularly.
As we have mentioned, this is a more sensitive cat and therefore we must be careful with medications and anesthesia. This also makes it susceptible to feline asthma, an allergic disease that affects the respiratory system.
