Cats

Maine Coon Cat: Temperament and More!

admin • 30 May 2023

Know that this feline arouses the fascination of many people thanks to its above-average size.

This kitty looks a lot like a wild lynx, only it has a super friendly temperament. It is therefore a perfect animal to have at home and live with the family.

In this article, we are going to talk about the Maine Coon, considered the biggest cat in the world. Learn more about the characteristics and temperament of the breed. Also, find out how much it costs to acquire a puppy.

Origin of the Maine Coon

Not much is known about the origin of the Maine Coon. The most likely hypothesis is that the breed was born from the crossing of long-haired European cats (as is the case with the Norwegian Forest and the Angora ) with cats native to the United States with short hair.

There is also a theory that this breed of giant cat came about because of the crossing between Canadian lynxes and domestic cats. However, this is just a regional belief.

There are many legends about the Maine Coon cat breed. One is that giant cats are descended from the longhaired cats of French Queen Marie Antoinette. It is believed that they were placed on a ship and shipped to the United States. Thus, the first specimens of the breed originated.

Legends aside, the most accepted theory is that these felines result from the crossing of Maine forest cats (American state) with cats brought by the Vikings in the period of colonization of the Americas.

The term Coon became part of the cat's name because it means raccoon in English. The word refers to the similarity that exists in relation to the tail of the two animals.

The Maine Coon breed has over 200 years of history and has conquered the world with its beauty. In Pak, however, there are records of this cat only in the last two decades.

Were you curious to know a little more about the kitty? Then check out the topics below.

Physical characteristics

The Maine Coon is considered one of the largest domestic cat breeds in the world. Their height ranges from 25 to 41 cm, their length can reach 110 cm and they can weigh up to 13 kilos. It is worth remembering that females are usually smaller than males.

The life expectancy of this cat is 12 years. Despite its large size, the feline lives well in apartments and does not require a special space.

Many people confuse the Maine Coon with other large cat breeds such as the Angora and Norwegian Forest Cat. The main difference is in the Maine Coon's square muzzle, something very characteristic of the breed. In addition, the tips of the ears have a tuft of hair.

The breed has some very striking physical characteristics, such as the long, semi-smooth, soft, and voluminous coat, which requires daily brushing. The eyes, large and expressive, usually match the color of the fur (white, black, or yellow).

The most popular coat colors are:

• BlackSilver;

• Blue;

• Black;

• Cream;

• Red;

• White.

The physical characteristics make the Maine Coon a champion of records. Examples of the breed have the titles of longest cat in the world and cat with the longest tail in the world.

Health

In general, the Maine Coon has a strong, sturdy, and muscular body. However, he has a tendency to develop some health problems. The list includes:

• Polycystic Kidney Disease;

• Hip Dysplasia;

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy;

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

To keep the Maine Coon Cat always healthy, the owner must worry about the pet's diet, as well as the practice of physical exercises and weight control. From a puppy, it is recommended to take the kitty to the vet for a check-up, vaccination and take care of deworming.

Hygiene

It is essential to bathe cats at least once every three weeks, otherwise, the excess natural oiliness of the hair contributes to the formation of wounds on the skin. It is possible to bathe at home, but in case of difficulties, it is worth hiring the services of a bather.

Temperament  

The Maine Coon is considered one of the smartest cats in the world. He has great adaptability and can be trained easily. His temperament is described as sociable, companionable, gentle, and affectionate.

Playful, the biggest cats in the world love to have fun with a ball of paper and easily adapt to living with other animals, such as dogs and cockatiels, for example.

The Maine Coon cat is very attached to its family and gets along well with children. Your contact with strangers, however, is a little more elusive. Another strong point in the breed's temperament is independence.

The breed is very fond of playing, including when it involves water.