Egyptian Mau - the Facts Every Owner of This Cat Breed Should Know

A breed of cat as old as recorded history, the Egyptian Mau ('Mau' means 'cat' in Egyptian) can be seen in the artwork of the ancient Egyptians. It is thought that Egyptian Maus are descended from species of the African Wild Cat. In that culture, the cats were worshiped, protected by laws and mummified. The Egyptian Mau is the only breed of cat that has naturally occurring spots on its short coat. Found in a random pattern on the fur, these spots can also be found on the skin. The coat can be silver, bronze or smoke colored with variations occurring between these three colors.

Egyptian Maus have striking green eyes and an unusual flap of skin extending from the flank to the back knee, which allows for agility. It is the fastest breed of cat, able to reach speeds of more than thirty miles per hour. Average adult male Egyptian Maus will reach weights between ten to fourteen pounds. Females will average six to ten pounds.

Egyptian Maus are described as talkative almost musical and have very distinct vocalizations. They are curious cats and like to explore, but they can also be lap cats, preferring the relative comfort and safety of a warm and friendly lap. Egyptian Maus are very friendly with their families and enjoy their company immensely, but are wary of strangers. They are also known to wag their tails like a dog when happy.

Egyptian Maus have some important differences from other domesticated cats. They are more sensitive to temperatures and prefer very warms climates. Egyptian Maus are also more sensitive to medicines and anesthesia. They have a longer than average gestational period. The normal period for cats is sixty-nine days but seventy-three days is still considered normal for an Egyptian Mau. This breed is also prone to food allergies, hot spots, cardiomyopothy and feline asthma.

There is a website that has great information on Egyptian Mau and most other breeds of cats. It has details that pertain to a cat breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url:

http://www.dogandcatfacts.com

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2007

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