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The Arabian Mau: A Living History
The Middle East is the cradle of civilization, where the first language was developed. Amidst this rich history, the Arabian Mau, the oldest natural breed of cat, thrives. From its humble beginnings as a common street cat, this feline has evolved into a recognized shorthair breed, known as Mau, derived from the Egyptian word for cat.
Survival in the Desert
For centuries, the Arabian Mau has roamed the deserts of Arabia, adapting to temperatures soaring over 125 degrees. Their survival instincts are impressive, with unique ways of cooling down, such as licking themselves to mimic human sweat evaporation. With a variety of colors and patterns, they blend seamlessly into diverse environments. Hailing from from the arab deserts of the Middle East Arabian Mau know exactly how to beat the heat they have short thick fur that helps them stay cool on hot days and warm during cold nights. Their desert-origin Arabian maus can adapt to most climates however as you might expect they do prefer warmer areas over colder regions even within the household
Physical Characteristics and Hunting Abilities
Notable for their large pointed ears and sleek medium build, Arabian Mau exhibits exceptional hunting prowess. However, their traditional hunting grounds are diminishing due to extensive urban development, pushing these resilient cats from the desert to the cityscape.
Health and Care
As a natural breed, the Arabian Mau boasts robust health and a sociable nature. Grooming is a breeze with their short hair and the absence of an undercoat. Occasional brushing and proper dental care, ear cleaning, and nail maintenance ensure their well-being.
Adaptation to Urban Life
The Arabian Mau, having lived for a millennium among people, effortlessly adapts to various families. Their playful energy persists even in urban settings, making them delightful companions. However, the breed faces challenges as they navigate a changing environment and urbanization.
Land Race Evolution
The Arabian is a landrace of cats this means they evolved naturally over the years without much human intervention resulting in a distinct and locally adapted breed
Native to the Arabian Peninsula
Arabian Maus are native to the Arabian peninsula and they are the predominant street in countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and other Middle Eastern countries.
Unique Shape
The Arabian Mau is over-shaped with a slightly longer appearance that is perfect. What’s more remarkable is that their paws are also consistently oval.
No Undercoat
Arabian Maus also have no undercoats to help them live comfortably in the desert this means they don’t shed much and are less likely to cause allergies in people who are sensitive to cat fur.
Distinctive Ears
Another feature that Arabian mau have developed by adapting to the desert heat is their unique ears they are large thin and pointed so they can easily dissipate heat and help themselves cool down
Nocturnal Behavior
Most cats are crepuscular in nature meaning they’re more active during Dawn and dusk however Arabian mous due to their desert origins tend to be more nocturnal than other breeds hunting exclusively at night when temperatures are cooler
Ancient Origins
As a landrace Arabian Maus of mysterious origins, some people even suggest that these cats descended from the very first feline domesticated by the ancient Egyptians over 4,000 years ago
Egyptian Influence
Perhaps supporting the breed’s Egyptian theory of origin the mau in the Arabian Mau’s name translates to cat in the Egyptian language
Historical Role
Arabian Mau’s history in the Arabian peninsula is set to dates back over a thousand years they are said to have combined Arabian travelers and merchants on their caravans assisting by hunting rats and other pasts
Recognition in 2008
Despite being an ancient breed Arabian Mau’s were not recognized as an official cat breed until 2008 this was done by the World Cat Federation during the annual general meeting in Germany.
Coat Standard
The word cat Federation breed standard also mentions that an adult Arabian Maus coat should not be too silky but firm instead however a silky coat is still allowed in young kittens
Variety in Looks
Since Arabian Mau’s are landrace of cats there is an incredible variety in their looks and colors these guys can come in all sorts of shades and patterns although red, brown, white, and Black with tabby markings seem to be the most common.
Color Variations
Today the World Cat Federation breed standard for Arabian Mau’s Acknowledge 5 color variations white, black, gray and white, brown, Black and white additionally an Arabian Mau’scan have any level of white on its coats.
Eye-Color Myth
Some sources wrongly state that Arabian Mau’s eye color does not correspond with the color of their coat This is not true in fact the Mau’s eye color always corresponds with their coat color even according to the breed standard.
Medium-Sized Cats
Arabian Mau’ are medium-sized cats with males weighing around 9 to 16 pounds while females weighing between 8 and 14 pounds.
Petra Mueller’s Contribution
Petra Mueller the director of the Middle East Cat Society is often credited with naming the breed Arabian Mau’s she reportedly encountered these cats during a trip to Dubai as a World Cat Federation official and later initiated a breeding program.
Rare Status
Since these felines are yet to gain recognition from major feline registries like Cat Fanciers Association Arabian Mau’s are pretty rare cats however pet quality Mouse only cost around $500 to $800 which is relatively low in the world of rare cats.
Robust Constitution
Arabian Mou’s shaped by natural selection exhibit a robust and resilient physical constitution as a result these guys don’t have any breed-specific health conditions whatsoever.
Common Health Concerns
Arabian mous are still susceptible to common felines like obesity dental, and joint problems so still have to schedule regular vet visits.
Cultural Significance
Arabian mous hold a special cultural significance in the Middle East they’re seen as more than just cats they symbolize qualities such as resilience and adaptability this symbolism arises from their ability to not only survive but also thrive in the challenging and harsh environments of the Middle East, particularly in the aid desert regions.
Vocal Nature
Arabian Mau’s among the most vocal cats ever your Mau’s likely going to keep talking to you and even scream until you respond so make sure you don’t leave them hanging without a response.
Historical Companionship
Historical records reveal that Arabian Mau’s were valuable companions to sailors and traders in the Arabian peninsula They played a crucial role in controlling shipboard rodents during sea voyages helping to maintain sanitary and best-free conditions on board.
Remarkable Speed
Arabian Maus are exceptionally fast, with rapid, nimble movements that distinguish them as exceptional feline athletes. They are also skilled hunters with lightning-fast reflexes.
Arabian cat Names
ADNAD SUKKAR
ANTAR YAASMEENA
AZRA AYAT AMRA
VEGA BADR
BATAL BADAWI
BOURKAN DAMMAR
EBLIS AFRA
AIDA NIKAYLA
SI A”IDAH
AADAB IBA
IKLIL AALA
GEBHA
21 Types of Domestic Short Hair Cats/ World Tour of Domestic shorthair Cat