fbpx

Pawland

All About the Arabian Mau Cats Personality and Care Needs

April 18, 2025

Arabian Mau cat guide for adoptions, breed, price, and more

Table of Contents

The Arabian Mau cat, a native breed of the Middle Eastern deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, is a fascinating creature. With its sleek build, affectionate nature, and instinct for being a family companion, it’s a breed like no other. Available in various striking coat colors, from black and white to ginger, this breed is as bold as it is tough, piquing the interest of cat enthusiasts worldwide.

Arabian Mau Cat

This guide covers the personality, care, and price of the Arabian Mau, how to adopt one, and its lifespan. Scroll down to see why the Arabian Mau might be the cat for you.

The Arabian Mau Cat

The Arabian Mau cat is a domesticated cat found in the Arabian Peninsula. It has been naturally selected for at least 1000 years, having traditionally lived in the harsh deserts of the Middle East. The Arabian Mau is a natural breed, one of God’s creations, designed to survive extreme temperatures, walk through deserts, and live alongside humans, the opposite of a designer breed. Centuries of adaptation resulted in its svelte physique, high alertness, and high energy levels. The Arabian Mau used to be a nondescript stray cat, but it is not worth any attention. Still, now it catches the eyes of enthusiasts worldwide, who are admiring its authenticity, toughness, and gorgeous look.

The Wild Cat of the Arabian Peninsula

The Arabian Mau is a breed of domestic cat that originated in the Arabian Peninsula. The word forcat in ancient Egypt is “Mau,” whence its name! In the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, these felines wandered about, hunting at night and sleeping through the scorching daytime, but now they have nowhere to call home. Recently (a decade or so back), the Arabian Mau has become prominent thanks to cat associations like the World Cat Federation. However, their nature is still primarily instinctive, only marginally influenced by breeding to suit humans, leaving a good deal of natural sense and independence in the breed.

Appearance and Coat Features

The Cat Arabian Mau has a slender, muscular body with long legs and defined muscles. The large, erect ears are one of its hallmarks that assist heat-loss adaptation in the desert climate. These cats come in an array of coat colors. For instance, the black and white Arabian Mau cat is an excellent case in point, symbolizing contrast and smoothness. Likewise, the Arabian Mau cat black has a rich, shiny coat that glimmers with sunlight, and the ginger Arabian Mau cat gained fame for the coat’s bright, warm shine. Even rarer variations, such as the Arabian Mau calico cat, display a stunning combination of white, orange and black patches, and its probable genetic diversity reflects the richness of its gene pool.

Arabian Mau Cat Personality

Arabian Mau Cat Personality

The Arabian Mau is a cat that enjoys both solitude and play. This breed is curious and intelligent. While they don’t often sit on laps, they form a strong bond with their owners. They are not usually lap cats but have a powerful bond with their humans. Their nocturnal nature is a remnant of their desert ancestry, as those dry, hot climates were conducive for hunting when temperatures were cooler. As house pets, they need interactive toys and activities to avoid getting bored. They are loud (and opinionated!) with a distinct personality and a desire to be nearby but not super needy.

Arabian Mau Cat Demand and Price in the World

Decoding the Arabian Mau Cat Price: Several Key Factors. People can often adopt these cats for low costs in countries like the UAE or Qatar. But exotic kittens or rare color varieties, such as the black without or calico Mau, can fetch a considerable sum. Prices can vary from as low as $300 to well over $1,000, depending on health checks, age, and if the cat has been bred from a certified breeder worldwide. It is necessary to confirm legitimacy while purchasing, especially from out of state.

Arabian Mau Cat Colors

Arabian Mau Cat Colors

One of the most adored types is the Arabian Mau cat white, which has class plus purity. It is often perceived as elegance and poise. Black Arabian Mau cats symbolize all that is mysterious and strong, so it is no surprise that true cat lovers, especially those who prefer the sleek, exotic type, rate these cats very high on their lists of top cats. For example, the ginger Arabian Mau cat is lively, playful, and has a lot of spunk! One of the rarest calico cat breeds, Arabian Mau, which features complex patterns in its coat over an affectionate temperament, is among them.

The Lifespan of Arabian Mau Cats

Due to their natural ancestry and few inherited health issues, Arabian Mau usually develop for 12 to 15 years. In a worry-free atmosphere, with the proper care, some even reach 17. They are also hardy, contributing to a long life expectancy compared to their very low grooming requirement.

Arabian Mau Cats for Adoption

Arabian Mau Cat Adoption

Adopt Arabian Mau cats are readily available for adoption within the rescue shelters of the UAE and other Gulf countries. These cats may have been rescued from streets or overpopulated areas and rehabilitated for adoption. Several international organizations are now working with rescues in the Middle East to provide adoption opportunities to cat lovers abroad. Although you cannot “order” a reserved pet by coat color (e.g., black-and-white or calico) via adoption, if you want to give a home to a well-deserving animal, this is a great place to do it.

Arabian Mau Cat Behaviour

Although still an instinctive wild hunter, the house cat’s behavior is suited to living amongst humans. These cats are intelligent, active, and require lots of mental stimulation. They love their high perches, they like watching out of the window, and they like interactive toys. Although they may be cuddly, they still want to be independent and will not enjoy being carried or handled a lot. New owners can find their nightlife startling, but they are just following their instincts for surviving in the desert!

Arabian Mau Cat Behaviour

With most cat dander, you might wonder how accurate the Arabian Mau cat’s hypoallergenic assertion is regarding aspects of the matter. Although no cat can ever be hypoallergenic, the Arabian Mau is considered to be one of the most hypoallergenic felines due to their short, coarse, non-undercoat-producing fur, resulting in less shedding and, therefore, less dander in the home. This could potentially make them easier for allergy sufferers to tolerate. Nevertheless, they respond differently with each person, so have one for a little while before  adopting them.

Characteristics Of The Arabian Mau Cat

While the possible traits of the Arabian Mau cat abound, few stand out as much as the ability to adapt. Famed for their sleek coat and large ears, these cats are highly adapted to survive in the extreme heat. They are also known for having significantly developed hunting instincts, intelligence, and adaptability. They are typically sleek with their shiny fur and lean, athletic bodies. They are hardy but also affectionate and bond tightly with humans who respect their boundaries.

One thing to consider is that the Arabian Mau cat may not be the best fit for people with allergies.

Cat allergies can occur from this breed, although Arabian Mau generates less dander than most long-haired breeds. The reactions have more to do with their immune systems than the cat itself. Minimizing allergic reactions can be achieved with regular grooming, air purifiers, and hypoallergenic bedding. If you are interested in adopting this breed but have a history of allergies to pets, it is best to see a doctor.

Arab Cat

arab cat

The Arab cat is a desert-adapted feline known for its slim body, short coat, and intelligent nature. Common in the Gulf region, these cats are agile, independent, and affectionate with trusted owners. Often called desert cats or Baladi cats, they are well-suited for hot climates. Arab cats are admired for their resilience and grace, making them popular companions in homes across the Middle East.

Arabian Mau Tabby

arabian mau tabby

The Arabian Mau Tabby is a naturally evolved cat native to the Arabian Peninsula, known for its striking tabby stripes and desert-hardened body. This breed features a short coat with classic “M” markings on the forehead, a lean frame, and strong legs adapted for hunting and survival in hot climates. Tabby Arabian Mau are energetic, playful, and loyal, making them ideal pets for families. They are low-maintenance, vocal, and form strong bonds with their humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Arabian Maus are playful and tolerant, making them good companions for respectful children.

They are not fully hypoallergenic, but may be more tolerable due to their short coat and low shedding.

Typically 12 to 15 years, with some living even longer in healthy, low-stress environments.

Yes, many rescue groups in the UAE and surrounding regions offer international adoption options.

They are highly active, especially at night, and need space and toys to stay stimulated.

Most Popular Posts

Picture of Pawland Team
Pawland Team
We are a team of passionate pet lovers and experienced writers dedicated to providing top-quality content for pet owners. With years of experience in the pet industry and a deep love for animals, we strive to create informative and engaging articles that help pet owners provide the best care for their furry friends. From health and nutrition to training and behavior, we cover a wide range of topics to keep pet owners informed.

More on this

350 unique and unusual dog names for male and female dogs with history and meaning like Levi, Bowie, Dre, Elton and more

Discover the best veterinary clinics in Dubai with top vets, animal hospitals, and clinics near you. From routine care to emergency services, veterinarians keep your pets healthy and happy

Cat coat patterns blend genetics and nature s artistry. Discover what makes your cat s coat unique and explore the fascinating world of feline fur

Discover how to register your pet’s microchip, update details, and GPS tracking information. Keep your pet protected with the latest microchipping data

Explore the world of Saluki dogs with detailed insights on their personality, grooming needs, and health care to keep your furry friend in top shape.

Learn all about catnip, what it catnip, why cats love it, its benefits, and whether catnip is safe for cats, dogs, and humans to use or eat regularly.

Pet Sitting Makes Your Vacation More Relaxing

Be it a short evening break, or a long-term pet boarding, Pawland’s Pet Sitters are here for you – Day & Night!

Front Booking
Anime Character Pet Sitting Dog and Cat