Maine Coon

A New England native

The Maine Coon grew up on the farms and ports of New England, and it is the official state cat of Maine. Its ancestors were probably long-haired and short-haired cats brought by European settlers, shaped over generations by hard winters.

Stories that it is part raccoon, or descended from cats of famous historical figures, are fun but not true. Genetic research links the breed to cats from western Europe, especially Britain.

A breed that came back

Maine Coons were stars of early American cat shows. A brown tabby named Cosey won Best in Show at a major show in New York in 1895. As other long-haired breeds became fashionable the Maine Coon faded, and some even called it extinct in the 1950s.

Breed lovers kept it going. The Cat Fanciers' Association, known as CFA, granted it championship status in 1976, and today it is one of the most popular pedigreed cats in the world.

Built for snow

Everything about the Maine Coon says cold weather: a heavy, water-resistant coat that is longer on the belly and britches, a thick ruff, tufted ears, big snowshoe paws and a long, bushy tail it can wrap around itself.

CFA notes that a mature male can reach or exceed 20 pounds, while females are usually smaller, and that the breed can take up to three years to reach full size. Many people also notice a soft chirping voice.

Living with a gentle giant

Maine Coons are usually easygoing, playful and social, and they often follow their people from room to room. Sturdy scratching posts and tall cat trees suit their size.

Their coat is less prone to matting than some long-haired breeds, but brushing once or twice a week helps, especially during shedding. Large cats can gain weight easily, so ask your vet about the right food amount and keep up yearly checkups.

Many Maine Coons enjoy water more than most cats and may dip a paw in their bowl or watch a running tap with real interest. They are often good with children and other pets when introduced calmly. Interactive play every day, such as chasing a wand toy, keeps a big cat fit and gives it a healthy outlet for its hunting instincts.

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