From the dim mists of antiquity comes the Egyptian mau cat, an ancient breed known for its spotted coat and inexhaustible energy. The only naturally occurring domestic breed with spots, the mau resembles a bobcat and indeed is believed to be descended from a type of small African wildcat. Whatever its origins, though, the mau (mau is the Egyptian word for "miaow" or "cat") is a breed of rare beauty. And its beauty isn't the only thing that's rare: there are only about 50 or 60 mau breeders in the U. S. Physical traits - Medium-size body
- Upright ears
- Surprised or worried expression in eyes
- Spotted coat (clear, contrasting spots; no stripes; spots' size not important).
Color combinations - Bronze (brownish with black spots) (figure A)
- Silver (gray with black spots) (figure B)
- Smoke (a "photographic negative" of the silver) (figure C).
The mau's eyes are green rimmed with black, and in the silver and the bronze the nose leather is pink. Personality - Bright
- Independent
- Affectionate
- Intelligent
- Playful
In addition, the mau has the fastest reflexes of perhaps any breed, and his playfulness manifests itself in a love of toys -- and an ability to find them no matter how skillfully they've been hidden. Not comfortable around small children due to a dislike for being picked up by unstable hands, the breed tends to attach to one particular person. Reserved with strangers, a mau will love every member of his human family, but any unwanted attention such as baths or medication should be administered only by "his" family member. Maus require very little attention, just light brushing, the occasional bath and a healthful diet. Because of the breed's rarity, maus may be difficult to acquire. If you wish to adopt a mau and can't find a breeder, contact the Cat Fanciers Association for the names of breeders near you.
RESOURCES :
The Cat Encyclopedia
Model: 1552091538
Author: Esther J. J. Verhoef-Verhellen
Firefly Books
March 3, 2001
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