Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the older (native) American breeds of cats known to man. It was popular in cat shows during the late 1800s, was a welcome household pet, and has finally become the second largest domestic cat breed in the world. The Maine Coon, originally found in Maine, has some very distinct qualities that undoubtedly aid in its popularity.

No one knows the exact origin of this large cat; however a handful of theories have floated around. One such folktale involves an old English seafarer by the name of Captain Charles Coon. Captain Coon always kept the company of longhaired cats on his ships that would wonder into New England every time he docked his vessel at the upper east ports. During their wandering, the felines mated with other feral cats which eventually lead to the birth of long haired cats, favorably nicknamed by the townspeople some of Coons Cats.

Another theory of the Maine Coons origin relates back to the Queen of France, Marie Antoinette. Before she was executed in 1793, Marie Antoinette tried to escape her doom in France by boarding Captain Coughs ship to the Americas. On it she loaded her prized possessions including six of her favorite longhaired cats. Though, the queen never made it to her destination, her furry friends did reach the Promised Land (in Wiscasset, ME) where they soon mated with other shorthaired cats and birthed the new Maine Coon breed.

Still, there are other theories behind the Maine Coons initial existence. Due to the physical features, some have professed that the Maine Coon is a crossbreed between cats and raccoons. This would, of course explain the bushy tail and large squared body; but it has been ruled as genetically impossible. Even more plausible (as there are in deed counts of such mating), some believe the breed to be the result of cats mating with wild bobcats. This would attribute the likeness of the tufts of hair commonly seen at the tips of the ears. Ultimately, the most popularly accepted theory is the first of this list.

Maine Coons are generally large cats, with males weighing between 13 and 18 lbs. and females ranging between 8 and 12 lbs. They have square bodies, squared muzzles and long bushy tails. Evolving in New England, Maine Coons have adapted to the cold climates of winter, and are equipped with long hair, large snowshoe paws, and strong bodies. Their hair is longest under the stomach and tail, and around its legs. It is shorter on the head and back, and Maine Coons often have a lion-like mane below their necks.

Although the Maine Coon dramatically lost its popularity during the introduction of other longhaired cats such as the Persian, and was prematurely declared extinct in the 1950s; the Maine Coon is now the second most popular breed in the world, declaring itself a home-worthy pet. Unlike some other cats, the Maine Coon is less dependent on its owners which is likely due to a higher than average intelligence. This makes it easy to train and it is pretty self reliant. Where many cats will crave attention, the Maine Coon will usually situate itself on the chair next to you rather than in your lap. Gentle and sturdy, this cat is great around-and most often enjoys-the company of other humans, children, and animals. Another benefit to this particular breed is the seldom need for grooming. Unlike most longhaired cats that require up to daily maintenance; the light-density undercoat and soft, silky hair is self-manageable.

There are a couple diseases to be aware of that genetically endanger the Maine Coon. Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease seen in cats and is the most severe genetic weakness in this breed. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), hip dysplasia, and Polycystic Kidney Disease are other genetically inherited diseases to watch out for when owning this big friendly giant. There are tests to detect these genes, and it is important to be aware of your cats potential vulnerabilities.

The Maine Coon, whether from French royalty, Captain Coons New England frequenting ship, or a bobcats affair, is a stunning creature that is favored by many cat lovers. It is perfect for the busy individual or family that doesnt wish to constantly be entangled by an overly energetic, attention seeking frisky tornado. Self reliant and gentle, the Maine Coon is a soothing, warm addition to the heart of any loving creature. And it is sure to remain at the top of the list for years to come.