Maine Coon Cat 101: Their Story & All You Need to Know

Known for their big size and super thick double coat, the Maine Coon is also called Coon Cat. They have got their name from the place they originated, that is Maine in the United States of America. The Maine Coon is a relaxed and happy cat who is not overly dependent on their owners. They love being around the people they love and may even follow them from one room to another. They are know for their soft thick coats that help them survive the toughest of winters.

The Story

Although a lot has been said about the origin of the Maine Coon, the truth is that these cats developed naturally in the region of the Northeastern United States. There are several stories that these cats were bred from raccoons or bobcats, but all this is untrue. This breed is 100% a house cat and have descended from the cat that were brought by American settlers.

It was the year 1895, when a cat named Cosey won the first American cat show on May 8th. The first stud book that was released by the Cat Fancier’s Association listed the Maine Coon as a foundation breed. This breed is also recognized by the International Cat Association. The breed reached its epitome of popularity when it was designated as the state cat of Maine in the year 1985.

What’s a Maine Coon Cat Breed Like?

Temperament

Maine Coon cats are affectionate when it comes to their temperament. They like being in the company of the people they love. Since they are playful and friendly, they make for great house pets. Getting along with humans also makes them a wonderful choice for first time pet parents. 

Maine Coons are laid back and self-assured, therefore, they do not require attention all the time. Owing to their easy-going nature, Maine Coons like to take everything in their stride and make great playmates for children. Though they are not overly expressive, this breed is talkative, and you may get to hear melodious meows here and there.

Easy to train, the Maine Coon likes to learn tricks the sooner you begin with their pet training, the better. Contrary to popular belief, they enjoy the water, and you may see them dipping their paws in water from time to time.

Features

The Maine Coon cat is a confident cat that is also steady in temperament. They are friendly and get along very well with humans. They are also considered to be certified therapy cats. They are used for visiting people in hospitals and even senior care facilities. These are affectionate cats who like to be close to their owners, you may see them walking behind you from room to room.

Maine Coons love to play and you will often see them engaging in funny antics. They are physically active and love to play with toys. You can play with them too as it is a wonderful way to bond with them. These cats are slow when it comes to maturing. Most Maine Coon’s reach their full maturity and growth at the age of 4. The one thing that this cat does not like to do is cuddling - they are not exceptional with it. Since they are large, they also don’t make great lap cats. Their thick coat requires brushing every day to prevent mats and hair balls.

Colours

This breed can be spotted in nearly 64 different colours. Their eyes may vary from green, copper to gold.

Their Overall Health

While the Maine Coons enjoy playing and are active, they are predisposed to certain health conditions. One of the primary health problems that this breed faces is 'obesity'. It is crucial for you to take care what your cat eats and how much it consumes. Obesity is the underlying cause of certain other serious illnesses.

Maine also tends to get hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a serious disease of the heart. Hip dysplasia and spinal muscular atrophy are also common in Maine Coons. Breeders who do ethical breeding always get their cats checked and screened for these medical conditions before breeding so that these illnesses are not passed on.

Grooming

Although Maine Coons have long hair, they do not shed excessively. Their thick double coat requires brushing every day. It is due to this thick coat that Maine Coons can survive the winters easily. You can bathe them occasionally to make the coat look shiny, silky, and clean. Since they like water, they won’t mind a bath every now and then.

Cleaning of ears and trimming of nails should be a weekly ritual as it helps maintain good health. Take them for professional grooming at a salon or get professional pet grooming at home once a month. 

When to Visit the Vet?

Just like we have mentioned previously, it is extremely important to get your Maine Coon’s ‘core’ vaccinations done on time. If you notice your cat exhibiting any unusual symptoms, take them to the vet immediately. You must also take them for regular vet checkups or online vet consultation and get them screened for any underlying diseases.

Since obesity is a common problem in Maine Coon’s, you must ensure that they eat a balanced diet and do not overeat. Since they are prone to hip dysplasia, staying lean and fit helps them from falling prey to this health trouble.

Maine Coon’s are very friendly and love to be with their human companions. They love playing and engaging in fun activities. They are intelligent cats and learn things fast. Maine Coon’s respond very well to training. They have a smart and curious nature. It is their loving nature that makes them great family pets and have the capability to develop strong bonds with children as well.

Also Read: 10 Top Cat Breeds & the Purrfect Toys for the Meows