Energy & Playfulness | |
Affection & Handling | |
Likes To Be Alone | |
Vocal | |
Intelligence | |
Health | |
Grooming & Shedding | |
Kid Friendly | |
Other Pets |
Size | Eye Color | Fur |
|---|---|---|
Male: 12+lbs Female: 8-12lbs | Copper, Green, Gold, Odd-eyed | Long Straight |
Colors | Patttern | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
White, Black, Blue, Red, Cream, Brown, Silver, Tortoiseshell, Bluecream, Golden | Solid Color, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor, Tricolor/Calico, Tabby, Smoke, Shaded | 9-13 Years |
Overview
The Maine Coon is a native of Maine. Shocking, I know. This New Englander was primarily used as a farm cat , and ship cat, to hunt mice and other rodents that threatened grain and food reserves. Not much is known of the Maine Coons origins other than the fact that sea captains used them dating back to the 19th century. Contrary to folklore, the Maine Coon is not a breed of a cat and a raccoon despite how similar the two may appear. This is, however, how the Maine coon received its name.
Today the big, beautiful cats are among the world’s most popular and they are the official cat of Maine. This breed also happens to be one of the largest domestic breeds in existence.
Personality
Don’t let this giant workhorse of a cat fool you, the Maine Coon is very much the gentle giant of the cat world. They can adapt to many different lifestyles and living conditions. The Maine Coon enjoys being around their people and will occasionally follow them around. He is not a needy cat, but is happy to get affection and attention when you’re willing to offer it. Because of his ancestors DNA of being a workhorse, the Maine Coon is happy to stay out of your way if you’re busy and look curiously with his large expressive eyes.
While not typically a lap cat, the Maine Coon will wait outside of a door that you close for you to patiently return so he can be in your presence. His skills as a hunter are not patient. If a rodent ever finds it way into your house, it will be not be safe when a Maine Coon is around. He will chase down any rodents until he successfully catches them. Even if there are no rodents to chase, The Maine Coon will play fetch and grab his toys as if to simulate chasing mice.
Maine Coons typically keep their playful behavior as that age and the Male cats are especially known for getting into their fair share of kitten-like play. The Maine Coon doesn’t typically meow, but they are know for their chirps and trills.
Health
Any cat can have ailments that are related to any cat regardless of breed. It's important to always consult with your breeder about genetic concerns. The Maine Coon is a generally healthy cat, but here are some health concerns that have been noted in this breed:
Care
Despite the length of the Maine Coon’s coat, it has a silky texture that doesn’t mat easily—if you groom it regularly. It is easily cared for with twice weekly combing to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. Useful grooming tools include a stainless steel comb for removing tangles and what’s called a grooming rake to pull out dead undercoat, which is what causes tangles when it’s not removed. Use it gently, especially in the stomach area and on the tail. Maine Coons are patient, but they don’t like having their hair pulled any more than you do. Check the tail for bits of poop stuck to the fur and clean it off with a baby wipe.
Bathe a Maine Coon as needed, which can range from every few weeks to every few months. If his coat feels greasy or his fur looks stringy, he needs a bath. Brush the teeth to prevent periodontal disease.
The ears are another place where dirt can build up. Make sure to use cotton balls with warm water and gently scrub the interior of theirs ears.
Children And Other Pets
The friendly, laidback Maine Coon is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. He loves the attention he receives from children who treat him politely and with respect, and he doesn’t mind playing dress-up or going for a ride in a baby buggy. He is happy to live with cat-friendly dogs, too, thanks to his amiable disposition. Introduce pets slowly and in controlled circumstances to ensure that they learn to get along together.
