Bengal vs. Egyptian Mau: Vet-Verified Main Differences (With Pictures)

Bengal cats and Egyptian Mau cats are relatively similar. They’re both exotic, which makes them highly sought after, and they are also much rarer than other breeds, which makes them expensive.

However, they have many differences. Bengal cats are typically larger than Egyptian Maus, but this varies a lot from cat to cat. Bengals are also more social and interactive, while Egyptian Maus tend to be more reserved around strangers.

We’ll explore the differences between each breed below to help you select the ideal feline for your family.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Bengal Overview

Coat

One of the most striking features of the Bengal cat is their coat, which gives them an exotic look. They have bold and distinct spots, though the exact color can vary slightly. Their exotic coat is due to the Bengal cat’s relation to the Asian leopard cat, which has a similar coat pattern.

Their coat probably leads most people to become interested in this feline.

Temperament

While both the Bengal and Egyptian Mau are intelligent and active, the Bengal’s energy levels can be described as extremely high. Bengals are notorious for their boundless curiosity and love for play. They enjoy interactive games, puzzles, and toys that stimulate their minds and bodies.

This high energy level can make the Bengals more demanding regarding playtime and engagement. We only recommend this feline for those who want a very interactive cat and have plenty of time to play with them. They can be a bit much for some families.

Social Interaction

Bengals are incredibly social and form strong bonds with their family. They’re known for their highly affectionate nature and high social needs. They are best for those with plenty of time on their hands.

Many owners adopt more than one cat to help keep them company. However, there is no guarantee that the two cats will get along. Therefore, we highly recommend that you only adopt a Bengal if someone in your home spends most of their time in the house.

Family-Friendliness

The Bengal can be an excellent option for families, but their exuberant energy can lead to problems with young children. They need to be closely supervised, as they may try to play with things they shouldn’t.

Training 🧶

Bengals are very trainable, thanks to their intelligence and curiosity. They can learn tricks and how to walk on a leash. Enrichment activities are required to keep them entertained, however. Bengals generally need more interaction and time than others.

However, they are still independent like most cats. They aren’t particularly obedient, though they can be trained to some extent.

Egyptian Mau Overview

Coat

Egyptian Maus also have a very recognizable coat. They have natural “scarab” markings on their sides and a distinctive “M” shape on their forehead. They’re only available in a few select colors: silver, bronze, and smoke.

Their coat pattern arguably isn’t as striking as the Bengal's, however.

Temperament

Egyptian Maus are known for their loyalty. They are active and playful but not quite as active as the Bengals. They still enjoy playing and are ideal for owners looking for a more active feline.

They don’t require as much exercise as Bengals, so they’re a good option for those with less time.

Social Interaction

Egyptian Maus are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. They’re loyal and affectionate, requiring a decent amount of attention from their owners daily. However, they are a bit more aloof with strangers and may show more favoritism.

However, they can still work well in a family setting. They’re rather playful, making them a good choice for children. They’re also highly adaptable, allowing them to work well in many family situations.

Training 🧶

Like the Bengal, the Egyptian Mau is intelligent and can be trained to respond to commands. While they might not have the same exuberant energy level as Bengals, they still benefit from mental stimulation and playtime. You should plan on providing plenty of toys to keep them entertained.

Again, it is essential to realize that they are still cats and aren’t as obedient as dogs. However, they can still be trained in some basic commands, though you can’t expect them to always listen to you.

Are Bengal Cats Part Egyptian?

No, Bengal cats were bred by mixing domestic cats with Asian leopard cats, which are wild felines (Prionailurus bengalensis). This produced a domestic cat with a vibrant, unique coat.

Why Are Egyptian Maus and Bengals So Expensive?

Although Bengals are more expensive than Egyptian Maus, they both cost thousands of dollars. For the most part, this is due to their rarity. Neither cat is particularly common in the United States, which makes them expensive.

There aren’t many breeders that specialize in them, but their demand is high. Therefore, the demand is higher than the supply, leading to high prices. However, you may consider the higher price worth it for a chance to own one of these exotic felines.

Which Breed is Right for You?

Bengals and Egyptian Maus are rare, so it is often a matter of which one is available near you. You're unlikely to meet a breeder that produces both breeds within driving distance, though you could still travel to pick up your kitten. Bengal cats are better for those who want a more interactive breed. They require a bit more work, including extra exercise and playtime. They’re very social and need plenty of attention from their owners. However, that also means that they’re friendly with strangers. On the other hand, while Egyptian Maus are also affectionate and interactive, they usually don’t have as much energy as a Bengal cat. They form strong bonds with their owners but may have a harder time interacting with strangers. See also:

• Egyptian Mau Cat vs Maine Coon Cat: Key Differences (With Pictures)

• Toyger Vs. Bengal: Main Differences (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Left -Shvaygert Ekaterina, Shutterstock | Right - COULANGES, Shutterstock