What Breed Were Ancient Egyptian Cats: Unraveling Feline History

In the early 19th century, the renowned naturalist Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg conducted observations in Egypt, shedding light on the various cat breeds that existed in ancient Egypt. His findings highlighted three distinct feline species: the jungle cat, the African wildcat, and a particular sacred cat that occupied an intermediary size, falling between the jungle cat and the domestic cat. Ehrenberg referred to this unique feline as Felis bubastis. These discoveries offer valuable insights into the diversity of cat breeds that once roamed ancient Egypt, enriching our understanding of the historical relationship between humans and cats in this region.

The ancient Egyptians are thought to have had a special connection with a cat breed known as the Egyptian Mau, possibly the oldest cat breed in history. Evidence suggests that the ancestors of Egyptian Maus were discovered mummified alongside Pharaohs in their tombs. Papyri and frescoes dating as far back as 1550 B.C. have been found, depicting spotted cats that bear a remarkable resemblance to the modern-day Egyptian Maus. This historical connection between the Pharaohs and the Egyptian Mau breed underscores the enduring presence of these distinctive cats in Egyptian culture. (Note: I added information about the historical connection between the Pharaohs and Egyptian Maus to provide better context for readers.)

Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen, had a deep affection for cats. Historians believe that her beloved feline companion was an Egyptian Mau, which is considered one of the earliest domesticated cat breeds in history. The name “Mau” is thought to originate from the cat’s vocalizations and may even have ancient Egyptian roots. Egyptian Maus are characterized by their distinctive appearance, featuring short hair and striking spots, often with green or amber eyes. These cats are renowned for their friendly and loyal nature, making them cherished companions to Cleopatra during her reign.