Egyptian Mau vs Oriental Short Hair

Which cat breed is right for you?

Egyptian Mau

Size
6–14 lbs
Lifespan
9–13 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Playful Athletic Alert

Oriental Short Hair

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Vocal Social Playful Intelligent

About the Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is the only naturally spotted domestic cat breed — its distinctive markings occur without any human intervention, and the breed's ancestry may trace back to the spotted cats depicted in ancient Egyptian art. This medium-sized, muscular breed weighs 6–14 pounds and is built for speed — it holds the record as the fastest domestic cat, capable of sprinting over 30 miles per hour. Their short, silky coat comes in silver, bronze, and smoke, each adorned with random spots that are present on the skin itself, not just the fur.

Temperament & Personality

Egyptian Maus are loyal, sensitive cats that bond intensely with their family while remaining reserved around strangers. They are active and playful — often "chortling" in a distinctive, musical voice when excited — and they love interactive play sessions. They can be good with respectful older children and may accept other pets if introduced carefully, though they often prefer to be the center of attention.

Pros

  • Only naturally spotted domestic breed — strikingly beautiful and exotic-looking
  • Fastest domestic cat — provides thrilling interactive play sessions
  • Extremely loyal and devoted to their chosen family
  • Short, easy-care coat with minimal grooming requirements

Cons

  • Reserved and suspicious of strangers — can be shy and skittish in new situations
  • Temperature sensitive — prefers warm environments and may be uncomfortable in cold climates
  • Prone to leukodystrophy (a neurological condition) and heart disease
  • Possessive of toys and food — may not share well with other cats

Fascinated by the Egyptian Mau's ancient beauty? Find your spotted companion among adoptable cats on Puplister.

About the Oriental Short Hair

The Oriental Shorthair emerged in the 1950s and 1960s when British breeders crossed Siamese cats with Russian Blues, British Shorthairs, and Abyssinians to create a Siamese-type cat in a rainbow of non-pointed colors. Sleek and angular at 6–12 pounds, this breed has a wedge-shaped head, strikingly large ears, vivid green eyes (or blue in white coats), and a short, fine, glossy coat in over 300 color-and-pattern combinations — more than any other cat breed.

Temperament & Personality

Oriental Shorthairs are among the most extroverted and opinionated cats in existence — they will tell you exactly what they think in a loud, distinctive voice. Fiercely loyal, they bond tightly to their humans and follow them everywhere, including into the shower. They are athletic, curious, and endlessly entertaining, making them ideal for active households with children and other social pets.

Pros

  • Incredible coat variety — virtually every color and pattern available
  • Minimal grooming needs thanks to the short, close-lying coat
  • Highly intelligent and trainable — enjoys puzzle feeders and learning tricks
  • Deeply loyal and affectionate with family members

Cons

  • One of the most vocal cat breeds — constant meowing can be overwhelming
  • Severe separation anxiety when left alone — does best with a companion cat
  • Prone to dental issues, heart disease, and amyloidosis
  • Demands constant attention and can become destructive if under-stimulated

Think you can keep up with this talkative, spirited feline? Search for Oriental Shorthair cats on Puplister and meet your new best friend.

Available for Adoption

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Egyptian Maus

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Egyptian Mau and a Oriental Short Hair?
The Egyptian Mau is 6–14 lbs sized while the Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–14 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (9–13 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Egyptian Mau or Oriental Short Hair?
Egyptian Mau is generally good with kids. Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Egyptian Mau or Oriental Short Hair?
The Egyptian Mau has a lifespan of 9–13 years while the Oriental Short Hair has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

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