MAIN Home Life Pets Cats & Kittens Maine Coon

Like the American Shorthair, the Maine Coon's origins can be traced back to colonial days when domestic cats traveled with Pilgrims to the New World.

Only the strongest cats survived the brutal New England winters, where the environment and natural selection resulted in the Maine Coon's thick, long coat and muscular frame.

Soon the Maine Coon's bushy tail and racoon-like banding gave rise to the story that the distinct breed was the result of a chance mating between cat and raccoon. Although that cat tale has since been proven to be a scientific impossibility, the Maine Coon remains firmly rooted in New England folklore and is today one of the top ten most popular cats in America.

Behavior & Personality

Curious, playful, regal and rugged, the Maine Coon's popularity is based not only on its large size and striking good looks but the friendly and close relationships it often maintains with its human and canine companions.

Of all the domestic breeds, Maine Coons are less apt to be lap cats, but will follow you everywhere around the house, exhibiting a marked dog-like desire to stay with the pack while engaging in "trilling" (a combination purr and meow) conversations.

At mealtime Maine Coons are not lone feeders, but prefer the close company of friends, and can often be seen taking food and even drinking water from their paws rather than from a bowl. Their nimble limbs also allow them to turn on water faucets, open doors, or swat small objects around the floor with the dexterity of a soccer star. Of course, they also make excellent mousers.

Care & Health

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic breeds, and males can reach up to 20 pounds or more full-grown. Like most cats they are adept at grooming, but a simple weekly brushing will keep their long, thick coats in peak condition.

Generally long-lived, the Maine Coon can be prone to a life-threatening genetic mutation called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, in which the left ventricle in the heart swells and thickens. Medications & treatments are available to help stave off the disease's most debilitating effects and prolong life, although at present it is not curable.

Feline hip dysplasia is another other serious condition that may effect Maine Coons.

More about Maine Coons around the Web:

The Maine Coon - Cat Breed FAQ - Detailed information on their history, temperament & behavior, care & training, general health tips, plus how to's on finding a breeder, related resources.

Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association - Information for breeders, feature articles & health tips, listings of available cats & kittens, photo galleries, membership details, related resources.

Main Coons - Pictures, general information on its origins & history, care & health advice, adoption tips, breeder listings, related links & resources.

Cat Fanciers' Association Maine Coon Profile - Wonderful pictures and brief overview of the Maine Coon's standing at national cat shows.

also see -> New York Cat Show | Pet Sitters | Pet Supplies