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| Egyptian Mau: The Only Spots that Count
The Egyptian Mau is an intriguing little cat, not only because of the richness of their history, but also because of their endearing personality and unique appearance. Unquestionably identified in the artwork of the ancient Egyptian people, there is little room for argument in the minds of experts, when it comes to the belief that the Egyptian Mau (mau being the Egyptian word for ëcatí), is the cat that was first domesticated from a spotted subspecies of African wildcat, and originally kept as pets by this incredible culture.
The role of the Egyptian Mau in the mythology, the religion, and the everyday life of the ancient Egyptian people is conveyed in the degree of affection that was lavished upon these felines, as well as the respect in which the Egyptian cats were held - cherished as pets, protected by law, and worshiped as deities, Egyptian Mau cats were even mummified and openly mourned with their passing. The mummified remains of cats have been discovered in the tombs of pharaohs as proof of how highly regarded these felines were to the Egyptian people. Of course, to any who have ever known a Mau, this is no surprise; to feast your eyes upon one a Mauís inquisitive face or to stroke his uniquely spotted fur is the opportunity to know and experience a living relic.
The Mau bears the distinction of being the only natural spotted-coat breed of domestic cat in existence. Possessing a lithe and elegant body, their markings consist of random spots over the body, a banded tail and legs, and distinctive ëmascaraí lines about the catís large pale green eyes. Their coats come in silver, bronze, smoke, solid black, blue silver, blue spotted (or diluted bronze), blue smoke and solid blue, though the black and diluted-colored Mau are not eligible for shows. Nevertheless, all varieties of Mau make excellent pets and they are known to be fiercely loyal, active and expressive, chortling and wiggling their tails in a wagging motion, when pleased.
The Egyptian Mau did not make their way into North America until 1956, when they were first introduced to the country by the exiled Russian princess, Nathalie Troubetskoy. In 21 years, the breed was recognized by the Cat Fancierís Association (CFA), and allowed to compete in championship competition in 1977. Originally, all Egyptian Maus in the United States and Canada could trace their ancestry to one of two Egyptian Mau cats that were imported from the Fatima cattery. Recent importation and breeding programs have since enriched and broadened the available gene pool, however, ensuring that the Egyptian Mau is a hardy and long-lived little feline, with relatively few health risks.
Regardless of whether you are a cat fancier, a breeder, or simply a cat lover, the Egyptian Mau is sure to pluck at the heartstrings when he gazes upon you with that adorably worried expression, and softly calls to you in his melodious voice. Once the companions of pharaohs, the Egyptian Mau is gaining popularity across the world, centuries later, as a beloved house pet and feline companion. Without a doubt, they will continue to be held dear to the heart and in the highest regard for centuries to come.
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