Maine Coon Cat
Maine Coon Cat
History
The Maine Coon is the United States’ only native long-haired cat. The origins of the breed are not precisely known.
One legend has it that the breed is descended from the long-haired cats belonging to the French queen Marie-Antoinette who were sent to the USA during the French Revolution for their safety, and who then mated with the local cats. Another story is that the Maine Coon is the result of interbreeding between cats and racoons. This is biologically impossible but the story may have led to the cats being named as they are.
The most likely answer is that the breed formed in the USA from a few imported longhaired cats mating with the local shorthairs, with natural selection promoting the continuation of the longhaired breed in the cold New England winters. Like American Shorthairs, they were prized for their hunting abilities and were kept in order to control the mouse population.
Appearance
The Maine Coon is probably the largest pedigree breed of domestic cat, often called the ‘gentle giant’ of the cat world. Males can often weigh over 20 pounds and may grow to over 40 inches long.
The coat is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the belly and tail. There is a ruff or ‘beard’ of hair below the head, resembling a lion’s mane. They also have longer hair on the backs of their legs. The coat is shaggy, water resistant and easily groomed. They generally keep their fur in order themselves with only occasional help from owners.
The Maine Coon comes in many colors including shades of tabby, bi-color, black, red, white and tortoiseshell. Eyes are usually green, hazel or gold-colored although white cats may have blue eyes or one blue and one gold.
The face is large and angular with a clear M shape on the forehead. The ears are often tufted. They have a genetic tendency to have extra toes and, more seriously, heart disease, but breeders are attempting to eliminate the genes that cause these problems.
The Maine Coon has a graceful, dignified walk that always attracts attention and admiration.
Temperament
Maine Coons are intelligent cats with a gentle disposition. They enjoy the company of people as well as getting along well with other pets. They are not lap cats, possibly being too big to be comfortable in that position, but they enjoy play and can be trained to fetch toys like a dog. Unlike many cats they usually prefer to eat in company, either with humans around or with other cats.
They are clever at using their paws and will often learn to open closet doors and turn on faucets, as well as picking things up with their paws. They can be mischievous, knocking things over or pushing objects off table tops. They often play with the water in their bowls and some Maine Coons will drink from their cupped paws instead of directly from the bowl. They may also dip toys or food into their water bowl or overturn the water onto the floor.
The Maine Coon cat has a trilling voice that is between a purr and meow, and will make this sound if surprised or contented.
