Egyptian Mau

• ExerciseVery high

  A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• GroomingWash & go

  Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment13–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Patellar luxation · Kidney disease

The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat and the fastest of them all, built like a small sprinter with a loose belly flap that lets it stretch into a full gallop. Athletic, alert and intensely loyal, it devotes itself to its chosen people while staying reserved and watchful with strangers, and it 'talks' in a distinctive musical chortle. This is a sensitive, active cat that wants space to run, high places to survey from and an owner it can bond deeply with. Give a Mau plenty of vertical territory, interactive hunting play and puzzle toys; many enjoy leash walks and fetch. The short, spotted coat is very easy, needing only occasional brushing to stay sleek. Generally healthy, the breed is screened by good breeders for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and patellar luxation, and it can be sensitive to some medications and anesthesia, which is worth flagging to your vet. Keep the cat lean and mentally busy, maintain dental care and kidney monitoring, and respect its sensitive nature with a calm, predictable home.

• How much play does a Egyptian Mau need?

  Very high. A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• How much grooming does a Egyptian Mau need?

  Wash & go. Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Is a Egyptian Mau suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Is a Egyptian Mau a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Egyptian Mau live?

  13–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Egyptian Mau?

  Keep an eye out for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Patellar luxation, Kidney disease. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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