Maine Coon Cat
History
The Maine Coon
is the United States' only native long-haired cat. The origins
of the breed are not precisely known. One legend has it
that the breed is descended from the long-haired cats belonging
to the French queen Marie-Antoinette who were sent to the
USA during the French Revolution for their safety, and who
then mated with the local cats.
Another story is that the Maine Coon is the result of interbreeding
between cats and racoons. This is biologically impossible
but the story may have led to the cats being named as they
are. The most likely answer is that the breed formed in
the USA from a few imported longhaired cats mating with
the local shorthairs, with natural selection promoting the
continuation of the longhaired breed in the cold New England
winters. Like American
Shorthairs, they were prized for their hunting abilities
and were kept in order to control the mouse population.
Appearance
The Maine Coon
is probably the largest pedigree breed of domestic cat,
often called the 'gentle giant' of the cat world. Males
can often weigh over 20 pounds and may grow to over 40 inches
long. The coat is shorter on the shoulders and longer on
the belly and tail. There is a ruff or 'beard' of hair below
the head, resembling a lion's mane. They also have longer
hair on the backs of their legs. The coat is shaggy, water
resistant and easily groomed. They generally keep their
fur in order themselves with only occasional help from owners.
The Maine Coon comes in many colors including shades of
tabby, bi-color, black, red, white and tortoiseshell. Eyes
are usually green, hazel or gold-colored although white
cats may have blue eyes or one blue and one gold. The face
is large and angular with a clear M shape on the forehead.
The ears are often tufted. They have a genetic tendency
to have extra toes and, more seriously, heart disease, but
breeders are attempting to eliminate the genes that cause
these problems. The Maine Coon has a graceful, dignified
walk that always attracts attention and admiration.
Temperament
Maine Coons
are intelligent cats with a gentle disposition. They enjoy
the company of people as well as getting along well with
other pets. They are not lap cats, possibly being too big
to be comfortable in that position, but they enjoy play
and can be trained to fetch toys like a dog. Unlike many
cats they usually prefer to eat in company, either with
humans around or with other cats.
They are clever at using their paws and will often learn
to open closet doors and turn on faucets, as well as picking
things up with their paws. They can be mischievous, knocking
things over or pushing objects off table tops. They often
play with the water in their bowls and some Maine Coons
will drink from their cupped paws instead of directly from
the bowl. They may also dip toys or food into their water
bowl or overturn the water onto the floor. The Maine Coon
cat has a trilling voice that is between a purr and meow,
and will make this sound if surprised or contented.
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