The Coon
Maine
about the breed
breed traits
border collie
The maine coon is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America. As you may have guessed, the breed originated in the state of Maine. No one knows for sure exactly how the maine coon developed, but there are some pretty wild stories. Some claim the maine coon is a descendant of cats brought over on Viking ships. Others claimed the maine coon cat was a cross between a racoon and a bobcat.
While there is a lot of wild stories, what is known for sure is that the well loved maine coon has a distinguished and rugged appearance. The maine coons distinctive presence with their thick coats, full-bodied maine, feather duster tails, and extra large paws, are due in large part to the breed adapting to the harsh New England climate.
the history of the Maine coon
coat: shaggy varrying in length across the body
average lifespan: 12 - 15 years
size: between "10 to 16" tall "19-36" long, and 10 to 25 lbs
Maine coons come in a wild range of colors. The most common maine coon colors are black, blue, red, cream, and white. The maine coon coat appearance is also affected by the silver inhibitor gene and coat pattern. Maine coons start developing their mane around ten months. The mane also known as their "ruff" continues to develop until they are 3-4 years old.
Color / Coat Types
While the maine coon is calmer compared to other breeds they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. The maine coon benefits from regular play sessions with a laser light or teaser. Interactive toys, climbing structures and catios help prevent boredom.
Exercise Requirements
Despite the maine coons fierce appearance, as a whole, maine coons are gentle and friendly. The maine coon is affectionate and social. The breed thrives with children and other pets. The maine coon is said to be dog like and some coonies enjoy playing fetch or playing in the water.
Temperament / Personality
Breed Traits
Maine coons are a generally hardy breed. However, it is VERY important to be selective about where you get your cat from. With the influx of breeders importing many health issues have become more prevalent. Maine coons are particularly prone to heart conditions, kidney disease, hip dysplasia, and obesity to name a few. I cannot stress enough how important it is that you get a maine coon from a breeder who does more than DNA testing. DNA testing. Breeders should be providing their cats with regular vet care, echocardiograms, and have their parents hips certified.
04: breed health concerns
Maine coons have a double coat with a longer outer coat and a dense undercoat. While the maine coons grooming needs are not nearly as intensive as some other breeds like a persian, they do require regular grooming. To keep tangle free daily brushing is recommended. I run a metal greyhound comb through my cats mains, tails, and bellies daily as this is where most matting occurs. A slicker brush will shine up the outer coat but a comb is needed to really detangle the maine coons dense undercoat.
03: grooming requirements
Maine coons are highly trainable. Training can help you bond with your kitten and provide much needed mental stimulation. Several of our previous kittens have been trained to walk on a leash, play fetch, and sit on command. Most maine coons are food motivated so get the churu's out and let the fun begin.!
02: trainability
Maine coons are social cats. that feel they are never to big to be lap cats. Maine coons thrive with people. A maine coon would not do well left home alone all day. That said, many of our previous families work the typical 9-5 job. If you have space and the resources a second cat could provide companionship and reduce loneliness. To ensure your maine coons needs are met consider rotational toys, climbing structures, water fountains, and cardboard boxes to reduce boredom.
01: ideal home + lifestyle
The Maine Coon as a Companion
In 1985, the Maine coon was recognized as an official state cat . Only four US states recognize cats of any type as a state symbol. Maine is the only state with an official domestic-cat breed. Massachusett's state cat is the tabby while Maryland's is the calico, but tabbies and calicos are just coat color patterns.
03: Maine's state symbol
A maine coon named Barivel is in the Guiness World Book of Records as the longest cat in the world. Barivel lives in Italy and is four feet long!
02: Longest cat in the world
Okay...this isn't 100% accurate. Maine coons do have a water resistant top coat that protects them against wet and snowy climates.
01. The maine coon is waterproof!
About Maine Coons:
Fun Facts
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