What is a Maine Coon Cat and what are they doing on OUR shoreline?
Simply put, the Maine Coon Cat is the only Native American long haired domestic cat. At least a century ago, the Maine locals thought the cats’ tabby (striped) markings and shaggy coats resembled a raccoon. Like raccoons, these cats had bushy tails, and used their paws much like a raccoon can.
Steeped in legend, the development of this breed is not completely understood. One legend states that the Maine Coon Cat is a cross between native New England short haired cats and Marie Antoinette’s long haired cats that were sent to America (along with her other treasures), futilely awaiting her arrival. Another, and more plausible explanation, is that long haired cats from Europe came across on early sailing vessels, jumped ship while in port, and mated with the native short haired cats. The Maine Coon cat is the result of those matings. One tale even suggests that the cats belonged to a Captain Coon, and referred to as Coon’s cats.
Whatever the exact story is, their ancestors did hail from Maine, and possibly other parts of the New England sea coast. Prized for over 200 years for their beauty and superb temperament, their large physical appearance does suggest they adapted well to the harsh New England climate (strong bones and a shaggy, warm, weather resistant coat), and they were apt predators (large ears, nimble paws, strong jaw and pronounced muzzle).
Today, Maine Coon Cats are dog-like, goofy, sweet, and loving. Often called the “Gentle Giants” of the cat world, Maine Coon Cats are not always lap cats, but will follow their owners around from room to room, and are very interested in interacting with their families. Most Maine Coon Cats get along well with other pets in the household. They are attracted to water and may play in their water dish, sink, or tub. Some like to drink from the faucet. Maine Coon Cats are not usually loud cats. They can be very talkative, but will usually chirp or trill rather than cry. Males on average reach 18 pounds or more and females might reach 12 pounds.
Some people think all Maine Coon Cats are brown tabbies. However, the breed comes in a variety of colors and patterns. The only pattern not allowed is “pointed” or “Siamese pattern.” One of the most popular cat breeds in the cat fancy, you will find Maine Coon Cat breeders all over the United States and the world. As with any pedigreed pet, do your research and make sure you are buying from a responsible, reputable, and knowledgeable breeder.
The author, Tina Dodge has been showing and breeding Maine Coon Cats for over 10 years, under the name Fog City Cattery.
Photo of Maine Coon Cat and Kittens courtesy of Harold Shapiro, Photographer.
Related posts:
- There Is No Such Thing As A Self Cleaning Litter Box, And Other Cat Litter Woes
- I Want A Puppy For Christmas!
- Big Cats, Little Cats, Spotted Cats, Naked Cats!
- Caveat Puptor
- Out N About With Dogs – Guilford CT
I grew up with a Maine coon cat, Amy. I watched her birth in our kitchen when I was 9 years old and she lived for 18 years! I remember her always drinking from the bathroom sink faucet and catching field mice and bringing them home to show us her prize! I remember hearing that she was a coon cat because she climbed down trees headfirst, opposite of the way cats usually climb down trees! She was a great cat!!
I have a Maine Coon cat. I drove all the way up to Maine to get the little kitten complete with papers. When I brought her home, she stood in the middle of the kitchen table, tilted her head back, squeezed her eyes shut and meowed her little head off. I thought she was such a diva! I named her Aria. Once, she got caught by her tail in a tree and the Guilford Fire Department came out and cut most of the tree down (they had to use ropes) to get her down. Now she has a bit of tail trauma. She still climbs trees and I see her napping with the squirrels. She’s a great hunter but mostly of mice and rabbits. I know Aria’s a Coon Cat and I have the papers for my “pet quality” kitty, but even if I didn’t have the proof, I’d know her heritage because of her odd behavior. I love this cat!
We rescued and then adopted a Maine Coon mix in April. The vet said he was about a year old at the time and in pretty rough shape. In the intervening six months, our boy Geno has become an enormous, gorgeous, goofy thief. He particularly likes to steal pencils, pens, artificial flowers, hair clips and the occasional box of dental floss. He has become the terror of the older members of our kindle mainly due to the fact that his large, 13 pound body is controlled only by a tiny, little kitten brain. I read in another article about Maine Coons that they are slow to mature, taking 3-5 years to reach true adulthood. Heaven Help Us, our older cats and our writing implements over the next few years!
Jan Kozlowski
jankozlowski.com
Hi Jan,
Yes Maine Coon Cats are slow to mature. They will normally reach their full length and height by age one or so, but their bones and muscles continue to mature and thicken for a couple years more. The heads (especially on the males) widen over time. The coat gets longer and shaggier with time. Some Maine Coon Cats do not develop their ruff (neck shag) until age two or even three. Your cat should have his final look by age 4 or 5. Enjoy! ~ Tina