Recognised for having a bushy tail, shaggy coat and tufted ears, the Maine Coon is a hardy breed capable of enduring harsh climates. Referred to as a “gentle giant,” the Maine Coon is a popular companion that is good with children and dogs. This slow-maturing feline does not reach full growth for four or five years, yet is kittenlike well into old age. The Maine Coon loves nature and is particularly fascinated by water.
DID YOU KNOW? In 1985, this all-American breed became the official state cat of Maine.
The need-to-know
- Highly active and inquisitive cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Somehow talkative cat
- Larger stockier cat breed
- Requires grooming every day
- Outdoor cat
- Great family cat
Personality
Maine Coon cats have a sweet nature and are very playful and friendly. They enjoy human company and make good pets. Possibly because of their humble origins they are often found curled up in the strangest of places. They enjoy outdoor life and so need a chance to climb and simulate hunting. Maine Coon cats are noted for the delightful quiet chirping sound they make.
History and Origins
Country of Origin: USAThe ancestors of the Maine Coon cat were longhaired coats brought in to the State of Maine, in America, by seafarers in the 1850s. These cats mated with the local shorthair cats. The offspring were big, strongly built cats with semi-long coats and brush-like tails that resembled the tail of the raccoon, hence the name Maine Coon. The cats developed thick dense coats to withstand the extreme Maine winters. Special shows were held for Maine Coon cats as early as the 1860s and the breed became very popular as pets. The Maine Coon cat was imported into the UK in the 1980s.
Nutrition and Feeding
Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.
Other Information
Health and common issues
The Maine Coon cat breed seem to have a high prevalence of a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It also has a high prevalence of hip dysplasia. Ask the breeder about both these conditions before you buy.
Best cat breeds for children
While this breed tends to be excellent with kids, each cat has a different personality based on training and life experience. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cats character.