Maine Coon Cats
The Maine Coon is the official state cat of Maine and the first truly American breed of cat. This breed originated in the early to mid 1800’s from various breeds brought into Maine harbors on ships. Cats were selected to be companions and to rid the ships of rodents. It is supposed that these cats and their kittens were traded, sold or given to people on the main land in these coastal regions. The rugged life and harsh winters helped to develop this usually hardy, healthy and intelligent large breed of cat.
The Maine Coon quite possibly acquired its name because of its many “raccoon-like” characteristics. Its most common coloration of tabby brown as well as its beautiful fluffy tail are similar to that of a raccoon. Their generally large size and curious nature may also remind one of their name sake. Maine Coons also have an unusual love of water and great dexterity.
At one point in the not so distant past, approximately 40% of Maine Coons born in Maine were polydactyl (having extra toes or "double paws"). These cats sported extra toes on the front and/or back paws. This trait has been largely culled from the show breeding population where it is more often than not unacceptable. Many find this trait quite endearing and are selectively “bringing it back” to some of the Maine Coons today. The trait of polydactylism has been attributed to the Maine Coons ability to survive better in the early years of the breed where it is thought to have helped them to be better hunters and to be able to move more easily upon the snows’ crust (like snow shoes) in the often harsh winters of Maine. Although no longer necessary to help them survive, polydactylism is thought to be a “trademark" of the Maine Coon Cat by many who love the breed.
Female Maine Coons usually mature at 8 to 12 pounds, while males often reach 13 to 20 pounds at maturity. This breed tends to be slow maturing often not reaching their full size and weight until they are nearly 3 years old. Their lynx like ear tufts, fluffy pants or britches, double coat, fluffy long tail, and large size along with the still sometimes occurring polydactylism are distinguishing characteristics of this historic breed.
The Maine Coon is known for its helpful, entertaining nature often described as “dog like”. These cats often enjoy a good game of fetch with their owners, they love to follow their owner seemingly trying to “help out,” and many also learn their names, coming faithfully when called. Most often Maine Coons are “people cats”, enjoying human company, often making unique trilling and chirping noises when they are happy. These social cats not only enjoy the company of their humans, but prefer living with other cats and dogs, over a solitary life that many cats are thought to prefer. Most Maine Coons are also known for their easy box training and grooming. This is truly a special breed that one cannot help falling in love with.
The Maine Coon quite possibly acquired its name because of its many “raccoon-like” characteristics. Its most common coloration of tabby brown as well as its beautiful fluffy tail are similar to that of a raccoon. Their generally large size and curious nature may also remind one of their name sake. Maine Coons also have an unusual love of water and great dexterity.
At one point in the not so distant past, approximately 40% of Maine Coons born in Maine were polydactyl (having extra toes or "double paws"). These cats sported extra toes on the front and/or back paws. This trait has been largely culled from the show breeding population where it is more often than not unacceptable. Many find this trait quite endearing and are selectively “bringing it back” to some of the Maine Coons today. The trait of polydactylism has been attributed to the Maine Coons ability to survive better in the early years of the breed where it is thought to have helped them to be better hunters and to be able to move more easily upon the snows’ crust (like snow shoes) in the often harsh winters of Maine. Although no longer necessary to help them survive, polydactylism is thought to be a “trademark" of the Maine Coon Cat by many who love the breed.
Female Maine Coons usually mature at 8 to 12 pounds, while males often reach 13 to 20 pounds at maturity. This breed tends to be slow maturing often not reaching their full size and weight until they are nearly 3 years old. Their lynx like ear tufts, fluffy pants or britches, double coat, fluffy long tail, and large size along with the still sometimes occurring polydactylism are distinguishing characteristics of this historic breed.
The Maine Coon is known for its helpful, entertaining nature often described as “dog like”. These cats often enjoy a good game of fetch with their owners, they love to follow their owner seemingly trying to “help out,” and many also learn their names, coming faithfully when called. Most often Maine Coons are “people cats”, enjoying human company, often making unique trilling and chirping noises when they are happy. These social cats not only enjoy the company of their humans, but prefer living with other cats and dogs, over a solitary life that many cats are thought to prefer. Most Maine Coons are also known for their easy box training and grooming. This is truly a special breed that one cannot help falling in love with.
