Maine Coon Cats

Common Name(s)
  Maine Coon Cat, American Coon Cat, Maine Cat, Maine Trick Cat, American Longhair, American Forest Cat, American Shag, American Snughead

Background
  The Maine Coon is one of the first true American breeds. However, the specifics of its origins are disputed. The most interesting explanation is that it originated from a cross between a house cat and a raccoon. However, this is biologically impossible. Another unlikely origin is that it is a cross between a house cat and an American Bobcat. A more probable explanation is that the Maine Coon originates from house cats that became semi-wild and developed a heavier body and thicker coat in order to protect them from the cold. Other stories include the basic idea that this breed descended from Norwegian Forest Cats that were sent to America. However, the most accepted explanation of this cat's origins is that it developed from the breeding of house cats and Angoras in Maine. There is no proof for this theory, though it seems probable since a cross between house cats and Angoras would look something like the Maine Coon.
  One interesting fact about the Maine Coons is that they were the first cats to be showed in cat shows. Though the first official cat show occurred in 1871 in London, Maine Coon cat shows had been held since the early 1860's at the Skowhegan Fair in New England. The Maine Coon was successful in the first official show in America in 1995, since it had the advantage of over 30 years of previous show experience. However, as more exotic breeds began to appear, it lost some of its popularity. In the 1950s it caught the interest of many again, and a Maine Coon Cat Club was formed in 1953. The Cat Fancier's Association recognized the breed in 1976. The Maine Coon arrived in Europe, more specifically, in Austria, in 1953 and in Europe in 1983. It is still a fairly rare breed in Europe.
  The Maine Coon originated in Maine, and is easy to find in the United States. However, it is rare in Europe and Australia.

Description
  One of this breed's defining features is its massive size. It has a large, muscular body that is long and rectangular. The head is medium-sized, but appears small compared to its large body. The eyes are large and slightly oval and the ears are large and tufted. The tail, a prized feature of the Maine Coon, is long and thickly covered, creating a bushy, plumed appearance. The coat is long, thick, and silky with a large ruff. The traditional coat of the Maine Coon is tabby, but most other coat patterns and colors are acceptable. A few exclusions include Chocolate, Lilac and Siamese Points, blue or odd eyes in all coat colors except white, and Bi-color or Parti-color cats with white fur for more than a third of the coat. The Maine Coon weighs from 9 to 22 pounds.

Care and Feeding
  This breed requires no special feeding accommodations.

Housing Your Cat
  The Maine Coon is likely to enjoy a garden or yard to exercise and hunt in. However, it can also enjoy a life as an apartment cat, especially if it is allowed time outside regularly.

Maintenance
  Unlike many long-haired breeds, the Maine Coon requires only a weekly brushing.

Social Behaviors
  The Maine Coon is an easy-going breed that generally gets along with people, dogs, and other cats. It shows affection toward the whole family, but tends to become especially close with one person.

Activities
  This breed is playful and active. It enjoys playing with others and exercising by itself.

Breeding/Reproduction
  Maine Coon litters are generally comprised of three or four kittens. They develop slowly and only reach full maturity at three or four years of age.

Common Health Problems
  The Maine Coon is a generally hardy cat.

Availability
  Maine Coon Breeders can be located easily on the internet. Local breeders can also be located. Prices range from $200 to $1000.

Glossary Terms
Ruff: A band of fur around the neck

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Author: Ruth Bratcher