If you’re considering adding a feline companion to your household, you may be wondering which breed to choose. Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are two popular breeds that are often compared due to their similar coat patterns. Both breeds are known for their stunning coats and playful personalities, but they have some distinct differences as well.
Bengal cats are a relatively new breed that was created by crossing domestic cats with Asian Leopard cats. They are known for their striking coats, which feature leopard-like spots or marbling. Bengal cats are also highly active and intelligent, making them a great choice for families who are looking for a playful and engaging companion. Egyptian Maus, on the other hand, are an ancient breed that has been around for thousands of years (in fact, the Egyptian Mau is typically regarded as one of the progenitors of the modern-day domestic cat). They are known for their spotted coats and striking green eyes, and they are often described as being both intelligent and affectionate.
In this article I’m going to help you figure out whether an Egyptian Mau or a Bengal Cat is right for your family and home.
Bengal Cat vs Egyptian Mau – Physical Characteristics
The Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau are both stunning breeds with unique physical characteristics. In this section, we will explore the differences and similarities between the two breeds.
Size
When it comes to size, the Bengal cat is generally larger than the Egyptian Mau. Bengals can weigh up to 7kg and reach a height of 70cm with long, muscular legs. In contrast, the Egyptian Mau is smaller, weighing around 6 to 14 pounds and standing at a height of 30cm to 40cm.
While both breeds are agile and athletic, the Bengal cat’s larger size gives it an advantage when it comes to strength and power. However, the Egyptian Mau’s smaller size makes it more nimble and quick on its feet.
In general, both breeds are considered medium-sized cats, but the Bengal cat is on the larger end of the spectrum.
Coat
The Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau both have unique coat patterns that set them apart from other breeds. The Bengal cat’s coat can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including brown, black, red, grey, spotted, clouded, ticked, or rosette. The Egyptian Mau, on the other hand, has a distinct spotted coat that is usually silver or bronze in color.
While both breeds have short, sleek coats, the Bengal cat’s coat is generally thicker and denser than the Egyptian Mau’s. This is due to the Bengal cat’s wild ancestry, which gives it a thicker coat to protect against harsh weather conditions.
Other Physical Characteristics
In addition to their size and coat patterns, the Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau have other physical characteristics that set them apart.
The Bengal cat has almond-shaped eyes that are usually green or blue, while the Egyptian Mau has large, expressive eyes that are usually green. Both breeds have muscular bodies and long, lean legs that make them agile and athletic.
Overall, while the Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau have some physical differences, both breeds are stunning and unique in their own way. Whether you prefer the larger, more powerful Bengal cat or the smaller, more nimble Egyptian Mau, both breeds are sure to impress with their physical characteristics.
Temperament Of Bengal Cat Vs Egyptian Mau
When it comes to temperament, both the Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau are known for being intelligent, curious, and playful. However, there are some differences between the two breeds that you should be aware of before deciding which one is right for you.
Bengal Cat
Bengals are known for their high energy levels and love of play. They are often compared to dogs in their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are also highly intelligent and can be trained to do tricks and play games. Bengals are very social and love to be around people, often following their owners around the house. However, they can be quite vocal and demanding, so be prepared for some meowing!
Egyptian Mau
Egyptian Maus are also known for their intelligence and playfulness, but they tend to be more reserved than Bengals. They are often described as being “one-person cats” and can be very loyal to their owners. They are also known for their love of climbing and jumping, so make sure you have plenty of vertical space for them to explore. Egyptian Maus are also quite vocal, but their meows are often softer and more melodious than those of Bengals.
Comparison
Here is a quick comparison of some of the key temperament traits of Bengals and Egyptian Maus:
| Trait | Bengal Cat | Egyptian Mau |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | High | Moderate |
| Affectionate | Very | Somewhat |
| Vocal | Yes | Yes |
| Playful | Very | Very |
| Loyal | Very | Somewhat |
| Independent | No | Yes |
Overall, both the Bengal cat and the Egyptian Mau make great pets for those who are looking for an intelligent and playful companion. However, if you are looking for a more energetic and affectionate cat, the Bengal may be the better choice. If you prefer a more reserved and independent cat, the Egyptian Mau may be a better fit.
History and Origin
When it comes to the history and origin of Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus, there are some interesting differences.
Bengal Cat
The Bengal cat is a relatively new breed, created by breeding a domestic cat with an Asian leopard cat. The breed was first developed in the United States in the 1960s by Jean Mill, who wanted to create a cat that looked like a wild leopard but had a friendly personality. To achieve this, she bred the Asian leopard cat with domestic cats that had desirable traits, such as a friendly temperament and a soft coat.
Over time, the breed became more popular and was recognized by the International Cat Association (TICA) in 1986. Today, Bengal cats are known for their striking appearance, which includes a golden coat with leopard-like spots or marbling. They are also known for their active and playful personalities, which make them great pets for families with children.
You can learn more here about the history and origins of the Bengal cat.
Egyptian Mau
Egyptian Maus, on the other hand, have a much longer history. They are believed to be one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds, dating back to ancient Egypt. In fact, the name “Mau” means “cat” in ancient Egyptian.
Egyptian Maus were highly valued in ancient Egypt and were often depicted in artwork and hieroglyphics. They were even mummified and buried with their owners, as they were believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits.
Despite their long history, the breed almost went extinct in the 20th century. However, a Russian princess named Natalie Troubetskoy began breeding them in the 1950s and helped to revive the breed. Today, Egyptian Maus are known for their distinctive spotted coat, which can be silver, bronze, or smoke-colored. They are also known for their intelligence and affectionate personalities.
In summary, while the Bengal cat is a relatively new breed created in the United States, the Egyptian Mau has a much longer history dating back to ancient Egypt. Both breeds have unique characteristics that make them great pets, and their histories add to their charm and appeal.
Differences in Appearance
When it comes to Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus, there are several differences in their appearance that set them apart. In this section, we will explore the differences in their coat pattern and color, as well as their facial features.
Coat Pattern and Color
One of the most striking differences between Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus is their coat pattern and color. Bengal cats have a wild-looking coat that is often described as “exotic” or “jungle-like.” Their coat can come in a variety of colors, including brown, black, silver, and snow. They also have distinctive rosette or marbled markings that give them a unique appearance.
In contrast, Egyptian Maus have a naturally spotted coat that is often described as “regal” or “elegant.” Their coat comes in three colors: silver, bronze, and smoke. Their spots are not as pronounced as the rosettes on Bengal cats, but they still give them a distinctive look.
Facial Features
Another difference between these two breeds is their facial features. Bengal cats have a more angular and muscular face, with high cheekbones and a strong jawline. They also have almond-shaped eyes that can be green, gold, or blue.
Egyptian Maus, on the other hand, have a more rounded face with a shorter nose and smaller ears. Their eyes are large and expressive, and they are always green.
Overall, both Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are beautiful and unique breeds with distinct appearances. Whether you prefer the wild and exotic look of the Bengal cat or the regal elegance of the Egyptian Mau, both breeds are sure to be a stunning addition to your family.
Comparing Intelligence and Trainability
When it comes to intelligence and trainability, both Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are known for their high levels of smarts. However, there are some differences between the two breeds that you might want to consider when choosing which one is right for you.
Bengal cats are often considered to be the more trainable of the two breeds. They are highly intelligent, responsive, and eager to learn, making them excellent candidates for training, obedience, and agility competitions. They are also known for their love of water, which can make bath time a breeze.
Egyptian Maus are also highly intelligent and trainable, but they can be a bit more independent than Bengal cats. They are known for their hunting prowess and their ability to adapt to new environments quickly. They are also very playful and love interactive games, making them great companions for families with children.
When it comes to intelligence, both breeds are highly capable of learning new tricks and commands. However, Bengal cats tend to be a bit more eager to please their owners, while Egyptian Maus may be more likely to do their own thing.
In terms of trainability, both breeds respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques. However, Bengal cats may be a bit easier to train due to their high levels of motivation and eagerness to please. Egyptian Maus may require a bit more patience and persistence, but they are still highly trainable with the right approach.
Overall, both Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are highly intelligent and trainable breeds that make great companions for families. When choosing between the two, consider your own lifestyle and training preferences to determine which one is the best fit for you.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to deciding between a Bengal cat and an Egyptian Mau, one of the factors you may consider is the cost. Here is a breakdown of the price comparison between these two breeds.
Price
The price of a Bengal cat can range from $1,800 to $3,000. This is due to their unique and exotic appearance, as well as their popularity as a breed. On the other hand, the price of an Egyptian Mau is generally lower, ranging from $1,000 to $1,200.
It’s important to note that the price of a cat can vary depending on various factors such as the breeder, location, and availability. Additionally, some breeders may charge more for cats with specific traits or characteristics.
When considering the price of a cat, it’s also important to factor in the long-term costs of ownership. This includes expenses such as food, litter, toys, and veterinary care. Both breeds are generally healthy and don’t have any specific health problems, but it’s always important to have regular check-ups with a veterinarian to ensure your cat’s well-being.
In addition to the initial cost and long-term expenses, you may also consider the cost of spaying or neutering your cat. This is an important step in responsible pet ownership and can help prevent health problems and unwanted litters. The cost of spaying or neutering can vary depending on your location and veterinarian, but it’s generally around $200 to $500.
Overall, the cost of a Bengal cat is generally higher than that of an Egyptian Mau. However, both breeds can bring joy and companionship to your life, and the cost may be worth it to some cat lovers.
Health and Care
When it comes to health, both Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are generally healthy breeds. However, as with any cat, it’s important to provide regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care to ensure they stay healthy. Here are some specific health concerns to keep in mind for each breed:
Bengal Cats
- Obesity: Bengals love to eat, so it’s important to monitor their food intake and provide plenty of opportunities for exercise.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart disease that is common in Bengal cats. Regular cardiac screenings can help detect and manage this condition.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a genetic condition that can cause blindness. It’s important to get your Bengal cat tested for this condition before breeding.
In terms of care, Bengals are fairly low maintenance. They have a short, sleek coat that doesn’t require much grooming. However, they are highly active and require plenty of playtime and exercise to stay happy and healthy. Providing plenty of toys, scratching posts, and climbing opportunities will help keep your Bengal entertained.
Egyptian Maus
- Obesity: Like Bengals, Egyptian Maus are prone to obesity. It’s important to monitor their food intake and provide plenty of exercise opportunities.
- Gingivitis: This is a common dental condition in Egyptian Maus. Regular teeth cleanings and dental check-ups can help prevent and manage this condition.
- Renal Disease: This is a common health concern for Egyptian Maus. Regular bloodwork and check-ups can help detect and manage this condition.
Egyptian Maus have a short, shiny coat that doesn’t require much grooming. However, they are highly intelligent and active cats that require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Providing plenty of toys, puzzles, and opportunities for play will help keep your Egyptian Mau happy and healthy.
Overall, both Bengal cats and Egyptian Maus are healthy, low-maintenance breeds that make wonderful companions. With proper care and preventative measures, you can help ensure your cat stays healthy and happy for years to come.
