Compare
Arabian Mau vs European Shorthair
Two natural-type, short-coated cats that are lively and independent; the European Shorthair is quieter and better with other pets.
Verdict
These two are close. Both are medium-sized, hardy, playful cats from old natural populations with short coats, minimal grooming and a good deal of independence. Both are rare and neither is recognised by the CFA. The Arabian Mau is adapted to desert life, has a short coat with no undercoat and a moderate voice. The European Shorthair is quieter, more independent and scores higher for other pets. The one thing that decides it is voice and company: choose the European Shorthair for a quiet household with other animals.
Choose the Arabian Mau if
- You want a rare cat from the Arabian Peninsula.
- You do not mind a moderately talkative cat.
- You want a short coat with no undercoat.
- You accept that the breed has little documented health history.
Choose the European Shorthair if
- You want a quiet cat.
- You have other pets.
- You want the more independent cat.
- You like a glossy, dense coat in many colours and patterns.
Where they are alike
Both are active, intelligent cats that need play and room to move. Neither is the usual pick for an owner who wants a quiet lap cat.
Side by side
| Arabian Mau | European Shorthair | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shorthair | Shorthair |
| Origin | Arabian Peninsula | Continental Europe |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Typical weight | — | 7-15 lb (3.2-6.8 kg); males are larger |
| Lifespan | — | 12-15 years |
| Coat length | Short | Short |
| Coat | Short, close-lying coat with no undercoat | Short, dense, glossy coat |
| Cat Fanciers' Association | Not recognised by the CFA | Not recognised by the CFA |
| How common | Very rare | Rare |
| Affection | 3 | 3 |
| Energy | 4 | 4 |
| Playfulness | 4 | 4 |
| Talkativeness | 3 | 2 |
| Grooming needed | 1 | 1 |
| Shedding | 2 | 3 |
| Good with children | 4 | 4 |
| Good with other pets | 3 | 4 |
| Happy alone | 3 | 4 |
| Trainability | 4 | 4 |
| Suits a small home | 3 | 3 |
| Allergies | No breed is hypoallergenic. A short coat with little undercoat may shed less loose hair, but people who react to cats may still react to an Arabian Mau. | No breed is hypoallergenic. The short coat sheds moderately, and people who react to cats usually react to this breed. |
| Suits | An owner who values a rare natural breed with minimal grooming and a lively, independent streak. | A household that wants a hardy, easy-going, natural-looking cat with an independent streak. |
| Less suited to | Anyone who wants a documented health record, an easy-to-find kitten, or a quiet lap cat. | Anyone who wants a very cuddly lap cat or a breed that is easy to find in North America. |
| Registries that recognise it |
|
|
| Health conditions to watch | — |
|
Facts come from each breed's profile. Scores run from 1 (low) to 5 (high) and describe a breed in general. Every cat is an individual, so meet the cat before you decide.
Last reviewed November 7, 2026