Arabian Mau
Breed Description

The Arabian Mau is known by its singular breed name, reflecting its geographical origins in the Arabian Peninsula. Unlike many cat breeds that have accumulated multiple names or variations over time, the Arabian Mau has maintained a consistent identity tied directly to its native region. The word "Mau" is believed to derive from the ancient Egyptian word for cat, connecting this breed to the broader feline lineage of the Middle East and North Africa.

The breed was officially recognized by the World Cat Federation (WCF) in 2008 and later by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2016 as a naturally occurring breed. This recognition was significant as it acknowledged the Arabian Mau as a distinct breed that developed without human intervention, shaped purely by the environmental pressures of desert life. In its native regions, the breed is sometimes informally referred to simply as "desert cat" or "street cat," though these terms don't capture the unique characteristics that define the breed.

While the Arabian Mau doesn't have traditional alternate names like some breeds, it's worth noting that local populations throughout the Arabian Peninsula, including in UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, have been familiar with these cats for centuries. In many Gulf countries, they were simply part of the landscape, valued for their pest control abilities and companionship. The formal naming and recognition of the breed helped preserve these cats' genetic distinctiveness and promoted their appreciation as a purebred cat worthy of protection and propagation. Today, breeders and enthusiasts work to maintain the Arabian Mau's natural characteristics while increasing awareness of this remarkable breed beyond its native region.

The Arabian Mau is a medium-sized cat with a distinctly athletic and muscular build that reflects its desert heritage. Males typically weigh between 10-16 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 8-12 pounds. Their bodies are firm and well-proportioned, designed for agility and endurance in harsh environments. The breed's physical structure showcases power without bulk, with strong legs and a moderately long body that allows for impressive jumping and climbing abilities.

The head of the Arabian Mau is round when viewed from the front, with a gently curved profile. Their ears are notably large and set high on the head, an adaptation that helps with heat dissipation and provides excellent hearing for detecting prey or potential threats. The eyes are oval-shaped and slightly slanted, typically appearing in colors that correspond with their coat, ranging from green to yellow to copper. These expressive eyes give the breed an alert and intelligent appearance.

One of the most distinctive features of the Arabian Mau is its short, close-lying coat that lacks an undercoat. This single-layer coat is smooth to the touch and lies flat against the body, perfectly adapted to hot desert climates. The coat comes in various colors and patterns, including solid red, white, black, brown, and grey, as well as tabby patterns in different variations. The texture is neither silky nor coarse but rather firm and resilient.

The tail of the Arabian Mau is medium to long in length, tapering to a rounded tip. It's well-proportioned to the body and adds to the cat's overall balanced appearance. The paws are medium-sized and oval-shaped, with tough paw pads developed through generations of walking on hot sand and rocky terrain. Overall, the Arabian Mau's physical appearance reflects form following function, with every characteristic serving a purpose in its natural desert environment while creating an elegant and appealing companion animal.

The Arabian Mau's history stretches back over 1,000 years across the deserts and coastal regions of the Arabian Peninsula. These cats evolved naturally without human breeding intervention, shaped entirely by the harsh desert environment and climate of the region. Archaeological and historical evidence suggests that cats have lived alongside human populations in Arabia for millennia, valued for their ability to control rodent populations around settlements, markets, and food storage areas.

In their native environment, Arabian Maus developed alongside Bedouin tribes and in the burgeoning cities of the Gulf region. They survived by hunting small prey like rodents, birds, and lizards, while also benefiting from scraps provided by humans who appreciated their pest control services. Over centuries, natural selection favored traits that promoted survival in extreme heat, including their short coat, large ears for heat dissipation, and robust constitution. These cats needed to be adaptable, intelligent, and physically resilient to thrive in temperatures that could exceed 120°F (49°C) during summer months.

For much of their history, Arabian Maus were not viewed as a distinct breed but simply as the local cat population. They were street cats in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Muscat, living semi-wild lives while maintaining loose associations with human communities. Their populations thrived in urban and rural settings alike, and they became an intrinsic part of the regional fauna.

The formal recognition of the Arabian Mau as a distinct breed began in the early 2000s when cat fanciers in the United Arab Emirates, particularly Petra Müller, began documenting and studying these cats' unique characteristics. Müller recognized that these weren't simply random street cats but a genetically distinct population with consistent traits that had been naturally selected over centuries. Her efforts led to the breed's recognition by the World Cat Federation (WCF) in 2008, marking a turning point in the Arabian Mau's history.

Following WCF recognition, breeding programs were established to preserve and promote the Arabian Mau while maintaining its natural characteristics. The International Cat Association (TICA) granted the breed preliminary new breed status in 2016, further legitimizing conservation efforts. Today, breeders work to maintain the Arabian Mau's genetic health and natural traits while introducing the breed to cat lovers worldwide. Despite growing international interest, the Arabian Mau remains relatively rare outside the Middle East, with dedicated breeders working to expand awareness while ensuring the breed's distinctive characteristics are preserved for future generations.

The Arabian Mau possesses a temperament that perfectly balances independence with affection, reflecting both its street cat heritage and its capacity for deep human bonds. These cats are highly social creatures who form strong attachments to their families while maintaining a confident, self-assured demeanor. Unlike some breeds that can be aloof or overly dependent, Arabian Maus strike a natural balance, enjoying human companionship without becoming needy or demanding.

One of the most endearing qualities of the Arabian Mau is its loyalty. Once bonded with their family, these cats demonstrate dog-like devotion, often following their favorite humans from room to room and participating in household activities. They're known for greeting family members at the door and will often choose to be in the same room as their people, even if not directly interacting. This loyalty extends to their protective instincts, as they'll alert their owners to unusual sounds or visitors with distinctive vocalizations.

The intelligence of the Arabian Mau is particularly notable. These cats are quick learners who can master tricks, understand routines, and even learn to open doors or activate simple mechanisms. Their problem-solving abilities stem from generations of surviving independently, requiring them to be resourceful and adaptable. This intelligence makes them excellent candidates for interactive toys and puzzle feeders, which provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. Owners often report that their Arabian Maus seem to understand conversations and can anticipate daily routines with remarkable accuracy.

Arabian Maus are naturally playful and maintain their kitten-like enthusiasm well into adulthood. They enjoy interactive play sessions with their owners, particularly games that mimic hunting behaviors like chasing feather toys or pursuing laser pointers. Their athletic build and agility make them excellent climbers and jumpers, so providing vertical space with cat trees or shelves is highly appreciated. Despite their playful nature, they're not hyperactive and can settle down for relaxed cuddling sessions after burning off energy.

The breed's social nature extends beyond their human family to include other pets. Arabian Maus typically get along well with other cats and can even form friendships with dogs when properly introduced. Their street cat background taught them valuable social skills and the ability to read other animals' body language, contributing to their success in multi-pet households. They're particularly excellent with children, showing patience and gentleness during play while being robust enough to handle typical childhood enthusiasm. Their tolerant nature and lack of aggression make them ideal family pets who contribute positively to household dynamics while maintaining their dignified, independent spirit.

Caring for an Arabian Mau is relatively straightforward thanks to the breed's natural hardiness and low-maintenance requirements. These cats adapted to survive in one of the world's harshest environments, resulting in robust health and minimal grooming needs. However, providing proper care ensures your Arabian Mau thrives as a healthy, happy companion.

The Arabian Mau's short, single-layer coat requires minimal grooming compared to many other breeds. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt is typically sufficient to remove loose hair and distribute natural skin oils. During seasonal changes, you might notice slightly increased shedding, and brushing twice weekly during these periods helps manage loose fur. Unlike long-haired breeds, Arabian Maus rarely require bathing unless they get into something particularly messy. Their coats naturally repel dirt, and they're fastidious self-groomers.

Nail trimming should be performed every 2-3 weeks to prevent overgrowth and splitting. Providing scratching posts or pads allows your Arabian Mau to maintain their claws naturally while protecting your furniture. These cats appreciate vertical scratching posts that allow them to stretch their bodies fully. Dental care is important for long-term health, so establish a routine of brushing your cat's teeth several times weekly using cat-specific toothpaste and brushes. Dental treats and toys can supplement but not replace regular brushing.

Arabian Maus are active cats who benefit from environmental enrichment. Provide climbing structures, cat trees, and perches at various heights to satisfy their natural climbing instincts. Window perches are particularly appreciated, allowing them to observe outdoor activities and bask in sunlight. Interactive toys that mimic prey movements engage their hunting instincts and provide essential exercise. Puzzle feeders add mental stimulation while slowing down eating for cats prone to gobbling their food.

These cats are highly intelligent and trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement methods. They can learn to use a litter box easily and may even master tricks or commands with patient training. Litter box maintenance is important—scoop daily and completely change litter weekly. Arabian Maus appreciate clean facilities and may avoid a dirty box. Regular veterinary check-ups, including annual wellness exams and vaccinations, help maintain optimal health. While naturally robust, preventive care ensures early detection of any potential health issues and keeps your Arabian Mau in peak condition throughout their life.

Feeding an Arabian Mau requires attention to their nutritional needs as an active, muscular breed. These cats evolved as hunters in the desert, and their dietary requirements reflect their carnivorous nature. Providing high-quality, protein-rich food ensures your Arabian Mau maintains optimal health, energy levels, and body condition throughout their life.

Choose a premium cat food with real meat listed as the first ingredient. Arabian Maus thrive on diets high in animal protein (at least 30-40% on a dry matter basis) with moderate fat content (15-20%). Look for foods that include named meat sources like chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb rather than generic "meat meal" or excessive grain fillers. While Arabian Maus can eat both wet and dry food, many veterinarians recommend a combination of both. Wet food provides additional hydration and typically contains more protein and fewer carbohydrates than dry kibble.

Portion control is important for maintaining ideal body weight. Adult Arabian Maus typically require 200-300 calories per day depending on their size, activity level, and metabolism. Most cats do well with two meals daily, though some owners prefer free-feeding with measured daily portions. Monitor your cat's body condition regularly—you should be able to feel their ribs with light pressure but not see them prominently. Adjust portions as needed based on weight changes and activity levels.

Kittens have different nutritional requirements than adults. Young Arabian Maus need kitten-specific food with higher protein and fat content to support their rapid growth and development. Feed kittens 3-4 small meals daily until six months of age, then transition to adult feeding schedules. Ensure smooth transitions between foods by gradually mixing increasing amounts of new food with old over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.

Fresh water should always be available. Arabian Maus developed in arid environments where water could be scarce, but adequate hydration remains crucial for kidney health and overall wellbeing. Many cats prefer running water, so consider a cat water fountain to encourage drinking. Some Arabian Maus enjoy water play and may paw at their water bowls, so use heavy, stable dishes. Avoid feeding your Arabian Mau human food, especially toxic items like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, or anything containing xylitol. While an occasional small treat is harmless, cats don't require variety in their diet like humans do, and sudden changes can cause digestive issues. Consult your veterinarian about specific dietary needs if your cat has health concerns or sensitivities.

The Arabian Mau is renowned for its robust health and strong constitution, a direct result of natural selection over centuries in harsh desert conditions. Unlike many purebred cats developed through selective breeding, Arabian Maus have a diverse gene pool that contributes to their overall vigor and resistance to many genetic disorders common in other breeds. However, responsible ownership still requires awareness of potential health issues and commitment to preventive care. With proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and appropriate lifestyle management, Arabian Maus typically enjoy long, healthy lives spanning 12-16 years or more.

The Arabian Mau's natural development has blessed the breed with exceptional health and longevity. By providing routine veterinary care, maintaining appropriate weight, ensuring dental health, and monitoring for any changes in behavior or physical condition, owners can help their Arabian Maus live full, active lives. These hardy cats reward proper care with years of companionship, and their robust nature makes them excellent choices for first-time cat owners and experienced fanciers alike.

The Arabian Mau's coat is one of its most distinctive features, perfectly adapted to life in the desert climate of the Arabian Peninsula. Unlike many cat breeds with double coats, the Arabian Mau possesses only a single layer of short, close-lying fur. This coat lacks an undercoat entirely, which allows for efficient temperature regulation in extreme heat while minimizing shedding. The texture is smooth and firm to the touch, lying flat against the body without the fluffiness seen in cold-climate breeds.

Coat colors and patterns in Arabian Maus are diverse, reflecting the natural variety found in the foundation population. The breed comes in a wide range of solid colors including red, white, black, brown, and grey. Tabby patterns are particularly common, appearing in classic, mackerel, spotted, and ticked variations. Many Arabian Maus display the distinctive "M" marking on their foreheads characteristic of tabbies. Bicolor combinations also occur, with white combined with any of the solid colors. The World Cat Federation recognizes all natural colors and patterns, though solid colors and tabbies are most frequently seen.

Grooming an Arabian Mau is refreshingly simple compared to many other breeds. The short, single-layer coat requires minimal maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt removes loose hair and distributes natural skin oils that keep the coat healthy and lustrous. During spring and fall, you may notice slightly increased shedding as the cat adjusts to seasonal temperature changes. Increasing brushing to twice weekly during these periods helps manage loose fur and keeps your home cleaner.

Bathing is rarely necessary for Arabian Maus unless they get into something particularly messy. These cats are fastidious self-groomers, and their coat naturally repels dirt and debris. If bathing becomes necessary, use a gentle, cat-specific shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to prevent skin irritation. Always dry your cat completely with towels after bathing, as the lack of undercoat means water penetrates to the skin easily. Most Arabian Maus tolerate necessary grooming procedures well, especially when introduced gradually from kittenhood. Their cooperative nature and intelligence make grooming sessions straightforward, and many cats come to enjoy the bonding time and attention that grooming provides. Regular grooming also offers opportunities to check for skin issues, parasites, or lumps that might require veterinary attention.

Arabian Maus excel in family environments and demonstrate exceptional compatibility with children and other pets. Their patient, gentle temperament combined with robust physical constitution makes them ideal companions for households with active youngsters. These cats possess an innate understanding of appropriate behavior around children, showing remarkable tolerance for typical childhood enthusiasm while maintaining their dignity.

With children, Arabian Maus display patience that surprises many first-time owners. They tolerate gentle handling, petting, and even dress-up games without becoming stressed or aggressive. Their playful nature aligns well with children's energy levels, and they often initiate games of chase or pounce that delight young family members. However, it's important to teach children proper cat interaction techniques, including respecting the cat's personal space, avoiding tail or ear pulling, and recognizing when the cat needs a break. Arabian Maus will typically walk away rather than scratch or bite when they've had enough interaction, but providing escape routes to high perches ensures they feel safe.

These cats generally integrate well into multi-pet households. Their social nature and street cat heritage taught them valuable skills in reading other animals' body language and establishing peaceful relationships. Arabian Maus can form close bonds with other cats in the household, often engaging in mutual grooming and synchronized napping. When introducing a new Arabian Mau to resident cats, follow standard introduction protocols with gradual, supervised meetings to ensure positive relationships develop.

Surprisingly, Arabian Maus often get along excellently with dogs, particularly dog-savvy cat breeds. Their confident demeanor prevents them from acting like prey, and many Arabian Maus actively seek out canine companionship. Dogs raised with cats or possessing gentle temperaments make the best companions. Proper introductions remain crucial—never allow dogs to chase your cat, and ensure your Arabian Mau has escape routes and safe spaces. With patience and proper management, Arabian Maus and dogs can become genuine friends, playing together and sharing sleeping spaces.

When bringing an Arabian Mau into a home with small pets like birds, hamsters, or rabbits, remember that these cats possess strong hunting instincts developed over centuries of catching prey. While individual cats vary in prey drive, it's generally safest to keep small animals securely housed in areas your Arabian Mau cannot access. Never leave them unsupervised together. With appropriate management, clear boundaries, and respect for everyone's needs, Arabian Maus thrive in diverse family situations, bringing joy, companionship, and entertainment to all household members.