Egyptian Mau
The only domestic breed whose spots are natural rather than bred in. It is also the fastest, helped by a flap of skin behind the knee that lengthens its stride.
Photo by liz west from Boxborough, MA, CC BY 2.0
Overview
The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat breed, meaning the spots are on the fur itself rather than the result of a broken tabby pattern bred in. It is also the fastest domestic cat, with a loose flap of skin at the flank that extends its stride.
The modern breed was rebuilt from cats brought out of Egypt via Italy in the 1950s by an exiled Russian princess, and the gene pool has been narrow ever since.
Temperament
Loyal, athletic and reserved with strangers. Maus attach hard to their own people and are often distinctly shy with everyone else.
They are sensitive to noise and disruption, and they communicate with chirps, chortles and a tail wiggle that other cats do not do. They are also serious hunters and will use their speed.
Care and grooming
A weekly brush for the short spotted coat, and nothing else unusual.
Pyruvate kinase deficiency, an inherited anaemia, is found at meaningful frequency in the breed and has a DNA test. Maus are also known to be sensitive to anaesthesia and to some medications, which is worth mentioning to a vet who has not treated one.
Living and exercise
They need to run, and a Mau at full speed is genuinely fast. Space, height and a secure outdoor run all help.
A calm household suits them better than a chaotic one, because this is a breed that startles. Twelve to sixteen years is usual.
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