The Maine Coon, known for its gentle disposition, is incredibly adaptable to various surroundings and boasts a dense yet smooth coat.
APPEARANCE
Size: Medium – Large
Weight: 5+ kg
Coat Length: Long
Coat Colour: White, Black, Blue, Red, Cream, Brown, Silver, Tortoiseshell, Bluecream, Golden, Solid Color, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor, Tricolor/Calico, Tabby, Smoke, Shaded
Eye Colour: Copper, Green, Gold, Odd-eyed
Grooming: High
Longevity: 9 – 13 years
Attention Needs: Moderate – High
RECOGNITION: ACF, ANCATS, CCCA
History of the Breed
Considered the only longhair breed native to the United States, the Maine Coon likely arrived with seamen sailing into New England. Cats brought on ships interbred with native cats, giving rise to a distinct breed.
The show career of the Maine Coon commenced in New York in 1895, with a tabby named Leo winning the best cat award. Leo continued to dominate Boston cat shows until 1900 when his son defeated him. Subsequently, the popularity of the Persian breed overshadowed the Maine Coon, but in recent years, the Maine Coon has regained its status as “America’s Cat.”
Appearance
The Maine Coon is a medium to large cat, with males being larger than females. Its body is long and rectangular, and the tail is also lengthy, giving the impression of a larger size.
This breed is characterized by a heavily boned, muscular build, initially serving as an outdoor cat and later adapting to a working role in keeping barns and homes free of rodents. The head is large, featuring tall ears, and the profile exhibits a slight dip under the prominent eyes. With a broad chest and thick legs, the Maine Coon presents a robust appearance.
The Maine Coon’s coat is dense yet silky, displaying an interesting trait where it appears shaggy and drapes longer on the stomach and behind the legs (britches) but is shorter over the shoulders.
Personality
Despite its size and historical background, the Maine Coon cat exhibits a sweet-tempered and gentle demeanor. It forms strong bonds with its caregivers and adjusts well to various environments, provided there is ample space for exercise. While its running may produce some noise, its soft and quiet voice contrasts, revealing a gentle nature beneath its impressive size.
Living With Maine Coon
Careful control of the Maine Coon’s nutrition is essential, as this breed tends to become soft or overweight without proper monitoring.
Adequate exercise is crucial for the Maine Coon, with the provision of cat trees and perches, along with sufficient running space. The cat enjoys interactive play and willingly engages with all family members. Due to its size, accidental knocking over of items may occur.
Regular attention to the Maine Coon’s coat is necessary, involving daily brushing to prevent tangling and combing to maintain a smooth appearance. Grooming becomes easier if introduced as a fun activity during the cat’s early age.
