Arabian Mau
Arabian Peninsula
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- loyal
- active
- vocal
- hardy
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Arabian Mau
The Arabian Mau is a medium-sized, short-coated natural breed that developed from street and desert cats of the Arabian Peninsula. It is lean and muscular, with large ears and a single coat suited to a hot climate.
Temperament
Loyal, active and talkative. Arabian Maus are described as attached to their owners and comfortable in family homes.
Play & activity
Moderate to high. They need play and room to move.
Grooming
The single short coat needs minimal grooming.
Care & wellbeing
They are regarded as hardy, but health data are limited. Routine vet care is recommended.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5 kg adult- Water
- 200 ml–300 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 280 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Arabian Mau
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Cats of this type have lived in the region for centuries. Breeding programmes in the United Arab Emirates in the early 2000s led to recognition by the WCF in 2008. It is still uncommon outside the Middle East.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Generally hardy
- Limited breed-specific data
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Routine vet checks
Not every Arabian Mau is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Arabian Mau right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Arabian Mau get?
Adult Arabian Maus typically weigh around 3–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Arabian Maus live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Arabian Mau?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Arabian Mau need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Arabian Maus affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Arabian Maus shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Arabian Maus good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Arabian Mau live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Arabian Maus have?
The breed can be prone to generally hardy, limited breed-specific data. Not every Arabian Mau is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.