Arabian Mau
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Arabian Peninsula
About the Arabian Mau
The Arabian Mau is a rare and ancient cat breed originating from the Arabian Peninsula. Discover its unique characteristics and history.
Overview
The Arabian Mau is a domestic cat breed developed from a naturally occurring short-haired population with distant ancestry from the early African wildcat . It is a landrace and formally recognized breed by a number of prominent cat registries , such as the World Cat Federation (WCF) and the Emirates Feline Federation (EFF). This cat is native to the Arabian Peninsula , which it has inhabited for over a millennium. It is a medium-sized cat, having a body structure that is rather large and firm, not particularly slender, and with well-developed musculature. The legs are comparatively long, with oval paws. The head appears round, but is slightly longer than broad. The nose is slightly concave when viewed in profile. The whisker pads are clearly pronounced, with a slight pinch. The chin is very firm. The eyes are slightly oval, large and slightly slanted. While it may have any of the eye colours typical of cats , the Arabian Mau usually has bright green eyes, and there is no relation between the eye and coat colours . The ears are large, slightly forward and sideward-placed, a little long, and high-set on the skull. While the Arabian Mau is technically not hypoallergenic , its low propensity for shedding and dander production may cause lesser reactions in those with mild allergies.
History
The breed has been a landrace native to the Arabian Peninsula, including Saudi Arabia , Kuwait , Qatar , Oman , Bahrain , and the United Arab Emirates , for more than 1,000 years. As a desert cat, it is well adapted to the region''s hot and arid environment .
Grooming
Arabian Mau have short fur without an undercoat and as such, are not high shedders. They are very capable of keeping themselves neatly groomed, which enables easier caretaking by a handler or owner. While not always necessary, brushing will remove dead hairs and intensify the gloss of the coat.
Standard Arabian Mau
Females are medium-sized and elegant; however, males can be much larger and have muscular bodies. Their legs are long with perfectly oval paws. The tail has medium length with tapering toward the tip. The head appears to be round, but it is slightly longer than broad with well-defined whisker pads. Ears are large and well set. Their eyes are oval and match the coat color. The fur is short and has no undercoat, besides it lying close to the body. The coat should not be silky. The colors can be different but the most recognized are red, white, black, and brown tabby. The Arabian Mau is a natural breed, and it reflects the morphology and behavioural features of cats living within the Arabian Peninsula. The breed standard is based on the observation and description of physical characteristics that have been found in cats of this area. Arabian Mau cats were approved by the WCF during the Annual General Meeting held on 2–3 August 2008 in Germany . They have been eligible to participate in international shows since 1 January 2009.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Arabian Mau?
The Arabian Mau is a medium-sized cat with a muscular build and short, fine coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Its eyes are typically golden or copper in color. They have a distinctive wedge-shaped head and a short, rounded tail. Adult Arabian Maus typically weigh between 8-12 pounds and stand 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
Is the Arabian Mau a good family cat?
As a naturally occurring breed, the Arabian Mau's temperament is often described as affectionate and playful. They are generally good with children and can make suitable family pets, but as with any cat, early socialization and training are essential. They are also known to be loyal and loving to their owners.
What health problems do Arabian Maus have?
As a relatively new breed, there is limited information available on specific health issues affecting the Arabian Mau. However, like all cats, they can be prone to general feline health issues such as urinary tract problems and dental disease. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help prevent these issues.
How much does a Arabian Mau kitten cost?
The cost of an Arabian Mau kitten can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a pet-quality Arabian Mau kitten can cost between $600-$1,200. Show-quality kittens may be more expensive, while rescue or adoption options may be available at a lower cost.