The first thing to do is do some research!  

Origin

Origin – They originally came from Maine in America – thus the name.

• There are many stories about where the Maine Coon came about. 

• One is that domestic cats mated with Racoons.  Impossible but a good story.

• Another is Marie Antoinette cats were sent to Maine to escape the French Revolution and from those 6 Maine Coon cats come from. 

• And finally, they came from ‘barn cats’.  Working farm cats that had large size and exceptional hunting skills.  It is more than likely those same barn cats are now pampered pets. 

Coat

Coat they have a thick coat that protects from cold and water.  It needs regular grooming to stop it from becoming matted.  A comb through once or twice a week will help keep it in top condition.  More often may be needed when the seasons go from winter to summer and get rid of the excess fur. 

Tail

Tail a distinctive feature of Maine Coons is their large bushy tails.  The tail is a magnificent characteristic and one that most Maine Coons takes great pride in.  A lot of grooming goes into keep it spectacular. 

Size

Size Maine Coons are the largest breed of domesticated cat.  They are large muscular, powerfully built miniature lions.   Males can be 8 – 11kg approximately and females 5-8kg approximately.   A Maine Coon can continue to grow until they are 4 years old and it will take all this time to gain their full size.

Life span is between 12-15 years.

Sounds

Sounds Maine Coons have a unique vocalisation with a large range of sounds. They have their ‘meow’ which is often at odds wit their size.  You look at a large bulky Maine Coon male and when he opens his mouth this tiny little peep comes out!  The also have trills, chirps and chattering.  Some of the best sounds come out when they have become fixated on something such as a bird.

Health

Health Maine Coons do have some specific health concerns. 

                HCM – Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is heart disease where the heard muscles thicken leading to impaired heart function.  This can be an inherited condition.

                SMA – Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a inherited genetic disorder that results in  muscle weakness and atrophy.

                Hip Dysplasia is an inherited condition where their hip joints do not form correctly leading to a loose joint that can cause mobility issues as well as pain and arthritis.

These large, affectionate, social, intelligent cats will fill your home with love and laughter.