Maine Coon

The Maine Coon: America's Gentle Giant

Big, shaggy and irrepressibly friendly, the Maine Coon is one of the largest domestic cats in the world and arguably the most good-natured. Despite a rugged, almost wild appearance, this native New England breed is famous for a sweet, sociable temperament that has earned it the nickname the gentle giant. Slow to mature and quick to bond, a Maine Coon often behaves more like a canine companion than a typical aloof house cat.

Rugged New England Roots

The Maine Coon developed naturally in the harsh winters of the northeastern United States, where only hardy, heavily coated cats could thrive as farm and ship mousers. Folklore offers colourful origin tales, from seafaring cats to a fanciful cross with raccoons, but in reality the breed is simply the product of natural selection in a cold climate. It became one of the first cats celebrated in early American shows and remains a point of regional pride, holding the title of official state cat of Maine.

A Sociable, People-Oriented Personality

True to its gentle, friendly, sociable and intelligent nature, the Maine Coon loves to be wherever its family is. These cats tend to follow their people from room to room, greet visitors with curiosity, and chirp or trill in a soft, melodic voice rather than a loud meow. They generally get along well with children, dogs and other cats, making them a superb choice for busy, multi-pet households.

Living With a Maine Coon

• Many are fascinated by water and may paddle in sinks or investigate a running tap
• Highly trainable, they often learn to fetch, walk on a harness or respond to clicker games
• They appreciate sturdy, oversized cat trees that can support their considerable size

Coat Care and Grooming

The breed wears a shaggy, water-resistant semi-long coat that is longer on the ruff, belly and britches and shorter over the shoulders. While it does not mat as readily as some longhairs, it still needs brushing two or three times a week, increasing during seasonal shedding, to keep it silky and tangle-free. Routine nail trims, ear checks and dental care round out the grooming routine.

Size, Growth and Health

Maine Coons grow slowly, often not reaching full size until around four years of age, and adults typically weigh between 4.8 and 8.2 kg. Prospective owners should choose breeders who screen for the conditions the breed is predisposed to, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a common feline heart disease, along with hip dysplasia and spinal muscular atrophy. With good nutrition, regular veterinary care and plenty of companionship, a Maine Coon commonly shares 9 to 15 years of affectionate, dependable company.