Historical Significance: The word "Mau" is Egyptian for "cat." These felines were likely worshipped and are considered one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds, with a direct link to the cats of the Pharaohs.

Ocicat History

• Origin: Berkley, Michigan, USA, in 1964.
• Creator: Breeder Virginia Daly.
• Original Cross: An accidental mating between an Abyssinian and a Siamese.
• Accidental Spotting: The spotted pattern was a surprise result in the litter.
• Development: American Shorthair was later introduced to add substance and silver coloring.
• Recognition: Granted Championship status by the CFA in 1987.
• Goal: To create a domestic cat with the striking appearance of a wild ocelot, but with a predictable, friendly temperament.

Development Story: The Ocicat was a happy accident. Breeder Virginia Daly was aiming for a Siamese with Abyssinian points when the first spotted kitten, named Tonga, appeared. The pattern was then deliberately developed into a new breed.

Physical Characteristics: A Side-by-Side Look

Size and Build Comparison

The Spotted Coat: Nature vs. Design

The Critical Difference:

Key Takeaway: The Egyptian Mau's spotting is random and natural, while the Ocicat's is a deliberate, patterned tabby variation.

Coat and Grooming

Egyptian Mau Coat:

• Length: Medium
• Texture: Silky and fine
• Unique Feature: Many have a "glitter" sheen where each hair shaft is translucent.
• Colors: Silver, bronze, and smoke.
• Grooming: Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and maintain shine.

Ocicat Coat:

• Length: Short, smooth, and close-lying.
• Texture: Satiny and sleek.
• Gloss: Has a noticeable shine.
• Colors: Tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, fawn, and all with silver variations.
• Grooming: Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or soft brush.

Distinctive Features

Temperament and Personality: Loyal Athlete vs. Social Butterfly

Egyptian Mau Personality

• Activity Level: High (8/10) – Bursts of incredible speed.
• Affection Style: Deeply loyal and devoted to their family, often forming a strong bond with one person. Can be reserved or wary with strangers.
• Vocalization: Not overly talkative, but has a soft, melodic voice and unique chirping trill.
• Social Nature: Selective; they choose their friends. Not typically a lap cat, but shows affection through proximity and playful interaction.

Behavioral Traits:

• The fastest domestic cat, capable of speeds over 30 mph.
• Highly intelligent, observant, and can be possessive of toys and people.
• Enjoys high places and warm spots.
• Playful and active well into their senior years.

Ocicat Personality

• Activity Level: Very High (9/10) – Retains kitten-like energy for life.
• Affection Style: Demanding, devoted, and famously "dog-like." Thrives on constant interaction and being involved in all family activities.
• Vocalization: Moderate; they will converse with you but are not as loud or persistent as a Siamese.
• Social Nature: Highly social, outgoing, and excellent with children, other pets, and even strangers.

Behavioral Traits:

• Extremely trainable; many learn to fetch, walk on a harness, and perform tricks.
• Confident, curious, and can be mischievous if bored.
• Follows owners from room to room, wanting to be in the middle of the action.

Temperament Comparison Table

Care, Health, and Cost of Ownership

Grooming and Exercise Needs

Grooming: Both breeds are low-maintenance. Weekly brushing controls shedding and promotes bonding. Neither breed requires frequent bathing.

Exercise Needs:

• Egyptian Mau: Requires safe spaces to sprint. Cat trees, shelves, and interactive wand toys are essential. They appreciate puzzle feeders for mental stimulation.
• Ocicat: Needs multiple daily play sessions. They excel at fetch, agility, and learning tricks. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior, so provide ample toys and climbing structures.

Health Comparison

Both breeds are generally healthy, but responsible breeders screen for known conditions.

Egyptian Mau Health:

• Lifespan: 13-16 years.
• Potential Concerns: Urolithiasis (urinary stones) and a rare neurological condition called leukodystrophy. Choose breeders who test for these.

Ocicat Health:

• Lifespan: 12-18 years.
• Potential Concerns: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD), and Renal Amyloidosis. Reputable breeders conduct DNA and cardiac screening.

Cost of Ownership (2026 Estimates)

Initial Purchase from a Reputable Breeder:

• Egyptian Mau Kitten: $1,200 - $3,000+
• Ocicat Kitten: $800 - $2,500

Note: Price varies based on pedigree, location, color, and whether the kitten is pet or show quality. Adoption from a breed-specific rescue is also an option for adults.

Estimated Annual Costs (Food, Vet Care, Insurance, Enrichment): $1,200 - $2,500 for either breed.

Pros and Cons Summary

Egyptian Mau

Pros: ✅ Ancient & Unique: A living piece of history with natural, glittered spots. ✅ Athletic Marvel: The fastest domestic cat, mesmerizing to watch. ✅ Loyal Companion: Forms a deep, selective bond with their family. ✅ Low-Maintenance Grooming: Easy weekly care.

Cons: ❌ Can Be Reserved: Often shy or wary of strangers and new situations. ❌ High Energy Needs: Requires ample space to run and climb safely. ❌ Rarity: Can be difficult to find, with long waiting lists from breeders.

Ocicat

Pros: ✅ Ideal Family Cat: Outgoing, social, and great with kids and other pets. ✅ Highly Trainable: Eager to please and learns tricks and behaviors quickly. ✅ Stunning Appearance: Offers wild beauty with a predictable, sweet temperament. ✅ More Available: Generally easier to find from reputable breeders.

Cons: ❌ Demands Attention: Can become lonely or destructive if left alone for long periods. ❌ Very High Energy: Requires significant daily interaction and play. ❌ Into Everything: Their curiosity means they need a cat-proofed home.

Which Spotted Breed Is Right For You in 2026?

Choose an Egyptian Mau if you:

• Desire a cat with a profound, ancient heritage.
• Are fascinated by feline athleticism and speed.
• Prefer a loyal, somewhat reserved companion who is deeply bonded to you.
• Have a quiet, predictable home without many strangers coming and going.
• Can provide a warm environment with plenty of vertical and running space.

Choose an Ocicat if you:

• Want an affectionate, dog-like shadow who is involved in everything you do.
• Have an active family, including children and other pets.
• Enjoy training and interactive play.
• Want a stunning, wild-looking cat with a reliably friendly and confident personality.
• Can commit to providing near-constant mental and physical stimulation.

Final Considerations for 2026

For Busy/Working Households: Neither breed is ideal for owners who are away from home 10+ hours daily. Consider adopting a pair (especially for Ocicats) or investing in a pet sitter/dog walker for midday interaction. Extensive environmental enrichment is non-negotiable.

Finding a Reputable Breeder:

• Ask For: Health testing documentation for both parents, a visit to the home, references, and a detailed contract.
• Red Flags: Multiple litters always available, multiple breeds on-site, unwillingness to show health records, kittens always ready to go home immediately.
• Connect: Attend cat shows or contact breed-specific clubs like the Egyptian Mau Association or The Ocicat International Club for breeder referrals.

Last Updated: 2026 | Both the Egyptian Mau and Ocicat offer a lifetime of spotted beauty and dynamic companionship for the right, dedicated owner.