Maine coon cat, or a cat with dog like personality is a large domestic cat breed as compared to other cat breeds. Its name is derived from its country of origin that isMaine, United States and it was the official state cat. It is also named as Maine cat, Coon cat, American Coon cat, American Forest cat, American Longhair cat, Maine Shag. It is also nicknamed as Gentle Giant. Among the oldest natural breeds, it is the one in North America.
Let’s explore more about the Maine Coon cat.
Characteristics and Traits of Maine Coon Cat
Maine Coon cat is recognized for its large size. It is a big, muscular, and powerful cat.The male Maine coon cat weighs about 8.2 to 10 Kg, while, female Maine coon weighs about 5.4 to 6.8 Kg. When fully grown, they can reach the height of 25 to 41 cm. Their large, solid, and well-built body supports their weight. They have long pointed ears and a broad chest. They have medium to long-haired coat which is soft and glossy. Their coat is adapted to season variations like it becomes dense and thick to bear the harsh winter weather whereas in Summers, it becomes thinner and light to tolerate the hot weather.
Maine coon cats show different coat colors like lavender, chocolate, brown, black, white, golden, silver and various coat patterns including ticked and pointed patterns. Their eye colors also vary from blue, odd eye, copper, green, gold to heterochromia iridium which is different eye color of both eyes which is more common in Maine coons with other than white coat colors.
Personality of Maine Coon Cat
Maine coon cats are affectionate, lovely, gentle, and playful pets. They like to spend time and play with pet owners and family members. Maine coons are calm and peaceful pets along with their robust personality. They also enjoy the company of gentle dogs and can deal with naughty children. They make a good pet for busy households. Their dog like personality includes their love to play with water and play fetch. Like dogs, they are also loyal and devoted to their owners and family members.
History of Maine Coon Cat
Maine coon cat first originated from the Maine, United States. It became popular due to its unique physical appearances, large size, and distinctive hunting skills. In the late 19th century, the Maine coon cat became recognized worldwide due to its appearance in famous cat shows. But in the early 20th century, it became nearly extinct after the origin of other long-haired cat breeds. In 2023, the Maine coon cat made a great comeback and became the second most popular breed worldwide.
Health Conditions of Maine Coon Cat
Maine coons are prone to congenital health conditions which can be transferred to them via genes. These include
Hip Dysplasia
In this condition, the hip joints of the cat are not properly aligned and can lead to arthritis. If your cat feels difficulty in walking, running, or jumping, consult your veterinarian to manage the symptoms and for proper treatment.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
In this condition, various cysts can develop in the kidneys of your Maine coons which can lead to kidney dysfunction and failure.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
It is common heart disease in most cat breeds with symptoms of shortness of breath, fatigue, and it can lead to heart failure.
Chronic Gingivitis
The young Maine coons are prone to gingivitis which is inflammation of the gums and your cat feels difficulty in chewing and eating.
Consult the veterinarian as soon as possible, if your Maine coon have any of the symptoms of these health conditions to prevent and treat the disease.
Diet and Nutrition of Maine Coon Cats
Diet of your Maine coons depend on their age, dietary needs, and lifestyle. The young Maine coons need more diet and calories due to their growth and development phase. While, adult Maine coons need less calories and should be given age-specific foods. Avoid giving unnecessary supplements until your veterinarian recommends any supplements.
How to Feed a Maine Coon Cat?
As compared to other cats, Maine coon cats need more food and water to avoid whisker fatigue due to their longest whiskers.
Always provide them with water bowls or make a water fountain as they love to play with water and will drink as much, they need. Also consult the veterinarian to get the customized feeding guidelines for your Maine coon kitten.
Training and Fun Activities of Maine Coon Cat
Maine coon cats have medium energy levels and don’t need vigorous exercise and trainings. Moreover, they are intelligent, wise, and curious.They are very responsive and follow the commands. They love gentle trainings like
- Litter box training
- Fist bumping
- Recalls
- Puzzle toys
- Birdwatching
- Walking on rope
- Playing fetch
- Sunbathing
Care and Grooming of Maine Coon Cats
Maine coon cats are clean cats and don’t get themselves easily dirty. They need moderate care and frequent grooming due to their thick coats.
Skin and Coat Care
Due to their thick, long-haired coats, Maine coons are prone to matting, to avoid matting proper bathing and brushing of their coat is needed. The thick coat can also become oily easily, so bathing is important to prevent excessive skin oiling.
Eye and Ear Care
The eyes of Maine coon cat are clean and need less care. But if you notice any unusual discharge, irritation, and eye redness, consult the veterinarian immediately.
As the Maine coons have large ears, they are prone to ear infections. After bathing them, properly clean and dry their ears to avoid infections.
Lifespan of a Maine Coon Cat
The life expectancy of a Maine coon is 10 to 12.5 years according to the pet insurance data.
How to buy a Maine Coon Cats for sale
You can buy a Maine coon from a pet shop or a well pet retailer within about $2000. You can also adopt it from the pet shelter or rescue.
How much is a maine coon cat
The price of a Maine Coon cat can vary depending on the breeder, location, pedigree, and whether the cat is intended for show or as a pet.
Here’s a general price range
- Pet-quality Maine Coon kittens: $800 to $2,500
- Show-quality or champion line Maine Coons: $2,500 to $5,000+
- Adoption from shelters/rescues: Usually between $100 to $500 if you’re lucky to find one
Also, keep in mind they’re large cats, so food, grooming, and healthcare costs will be higher than average.
Conclusion
Maine coon cat is a largest cat breed with medium-haired thick coat and long ears. It originated from the Maine, United States. It is a gentle, friendly, and a loyal pet with medium energy levels. It also has a dog like personality and love to play with water. It likes calm and peaceful activities. Its dietary and caloric requirements are more due tot its larger size as compared to other cat breeds. Consult with the veterinarian if you feel any unusual behavior or health condition symptoms in your Maine coon kitten.
