The Egyptian Mau is a striking cat with a spotted pattern and gooseberry green eyes. This cat is the only domestic that is naturally spotted and has spots that vary in size on both sides of the body.

This breed has origins in Egypt and, in fact, the word Mau is Egyptian for "cat". Shown in Temple paintings that date to 1400 B. C. this cat’s muscular physique is a tribute to its ancestors who hunted along the Nile River. In fact, one can almost picture this cat looking like a miniature cheetah stalking its prey in the grass. The Egyptian Mau was imported to the U.S. in 1953.

A somewhat reserved breed, the Egyptian Mau can be somewhat aloof with strangers. Some love to be handled while others hate it and this mostly depends on the bloodline. This is a quiet cat that has a low-pitched, melodious voice.

A medium-sized cat, the Egyptian Mau has a wedge-shaped head. The ears are sometimes tufted, being brought up the base and standing upright. He has almond shaped eyes that are gooseberry green color and a fine silky coat. The body is well balanced with the hind legs being longer than the front.

The Egyptian Mau comes in smoke, silver or bronze colors and is characterized by distinctive spots. The nose and paws are colored according to the coat color. The forehead has frown lines and an M. The lines continue over the head and back of the neck and then turn to spots along the back. The tale is ringed and has a dark tip. Mascara lines highlight the eyes.

The Egyptian Mau has an average of four kittens in a litter. The kittens are spotted at birth with the exception of those that are smoke colored. The kittens have an interesting eye color that is green when they are happy and turn amber color when they are disturbed. Once they are about two years of age the eye color stabilizes to green.

This is a fairly hardy breed with no health problems associated with it. Grooming consists of routine brushing and bathing as needed. Feed your Egyptian Mau a balanced diet as you would any cat.

Most Egyptian Maus make great pets. You really need to choose your breeder well and make sure you get a cat from a good breeding line. Some lines can be unpredictable and excitable. Most of this breed are affectionate to their family and love children but can be weary of strangers.