Learn more about one of the largest breeds of domestic cat, if not the largest, and second on the list of most popular breeds of cat.
What is a Maine Coon?
The Cat Fancier’s Association refers to the Maine Coon cat as “the native American longhaired cat.” Originating in the cold climes of Maine, the Maine Coon cat adapted itself into the perfect creature for living outdoors in harsh conditions, and its mousing skills certainly supported his survival.
The Maine Coon is a large cat, with owners often boasting of males weighing 30 lbs or more. In reality, most Maine Coons range in size from 9-12 lbs for females and 13-18 lbs for males. Leo, the record holder for largest cat, weighs 35 lbs and is 48” from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail. Maine Coons are strong and powerful, solidly built.
Characteristics of the Maine Coon cat are:
- Large size
- Incredibly long whiskers (to help them find their way through dense undergrowth)
- Long, smooth, shaggy coat (in 3 different layers)
- Longer hair around the ruff
- Extra large ear tufts
- Large, expressive eyes
- Rectangular but balanced build
- Deep, broad chest (to cut through brush)
- Big, round feet (designed for walking in snow)
- Bushy tails
- Complete Maine Coon Breed Standard
Maine Coon Health
Maine Coons are a hardy, healthy breed. They can take up to 3-5 years to fully develop and mature. This gives them a kitten-like personality until they are much older! Even their meow stays small. Maine Coons are a quiet breed of cat and are unimposing. Their most common health problem is hip dysplasia because of their size.
Maine Coon Temperament
This breed is known to be incredibly smart, terribly playful, and even a bit silly. They are the Mastiffs of the feline. They’re known to enjoy your company and be interested in whatever activity you’re doing, but they do not necessarily want to sit in your lap all the time. They love a game of fetch and are often said to be more dog-like in nature than any breed of cat. They might have little quirks like drinking with their paws, and many Maine Coons are polydactyl, meaning they have extra toes. (Cat shows disqualify for this, but some people think it’s cute and breed for it.)
Maine Coons are a family cat! They love children and other animals, though with their hunting skills, you might forgo the gerbils and goldfish. They adapt well to their surroundings.
Maine Coon Grooming Needs
This breed comes in every color under the sun, including different eye colors. The brown tabby is probably the most popular and common color. They are easy to keep groomed, requiring only a little brushing once or twice a week, if that. If you want an easy to maintain cat, this is a great breed for you!
If you have any questions or want to share your Maine Coon cat pictures, please visit us in the discussion area. If you are interested in adopting a Maine Coon, please visit the Maine Coon Rescue or check out the adoptables at Petfinder.com.
If you’re researching cat breeds for your family, you might also enjoy Persian Cats and Himalayan Cats.
