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The Maine Coon, also called the Maine Shag, is among the world’s largest cat breeds. Some record-holders in the Guinness Book, such as Barivel (120 cm) and Stewie, were Maine Coons. This giant with a tender heart prefers cuddles and tranquility to intense activity. It makes a wonderful companion for both children and other pets.
Breed History
The ancestors of the Maine Coon were likely long-haired cats that arrived with the first Europeans settling in America. Only the hardiest survived the harsh climate of the northeastern US, especially the state of Maine, which gave the breed its name. Some sources suggest Vikings brought them to North America long before.
Farmers valued Maine Coons both for their beauty and their hunting skills. By the mid-19th century, they appeared in cat shows. After losing popularity to Persians, the breed regained recognition in the 1950s with the creation of the Central Maine Coon Cat Club. Twenty years later, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) officially recognized the breed, and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) followed in 1983.
In France, Maine Coons arrived in the early 1980s and quickly became one of the most popular breeds, surpassing even the Birman and Bengal.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Very long, rectangular, with well-developed muscles and a broad chest. Despite its size, the body remains proportionate.
- Coat: Semi-long to long, with a ruff under the neck. Shorter on the shoulders and thighs, longer on the abdomen. Silky with a fine undercoat.
- Color: All coat colors are accepted except chocolate and lilac, including tabby patterns.
- Head: Medium-sized, slightly rounded skull, pronounced cheekbones, a high forehead, and a square muzzle.
- Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, wide-set, available in many colors. Blue and odd eyes are accepted in white cats.
- Ears: Large, wide at the base, set high, with tufts of fur and lynx-like tips.
- Tail: Long, broad at the base, covered with long hair, tapering to a point.
Temperament and Personality
The Maine Coon is deeply affectionate and may even appear clingy with its owner. Playful but not overly athletic, its calm nature makes it an ideal companion for children.
It is peaceful and non-aggressive, preferring to flee rather than fight. Maine Coons are known for being talkative, expressing themselves with a variety of vocalizations. Sociable and easygoing, they usually accept other cats and pets without difficulty.
Living Conditions
The Maine Coon adapts well to all environments, whether an apartment or a large country house. Though not overly active, it may wander off to explore or hunt, exposing itself to risks. This breed is also famous for its love of water.
Health
Maine Coons are generally healthy but prone to certain conditions:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): a genetic heart disease sometimes linked to amino acid deficiency.
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): the presence of kidney cysts.
- Hip dysplasia: due to size and muscle mass, worsened by excess weight.
- Spinal muscular atrophy: affecting muscles.
They should also be vaccinated against rabies, panleukopenia, feline leukemia, and calicivirus.
- Hypoallergenic breed: No
Life Expectancy
The average lifespan of a Maine Coon is 10 to 15 years.
Grooming and Hygiene
Despite its size and long coat, the Maine Coon is relatively easy to maintain. Weekly brushing is enough, though daily grooming is recommended during shedding. Baths (2–3 times a year) with adapted shampoo, along with ear and eye checks, are advised. A spacious litter box is necessary, and its environment must be kept clean.
Price and Budget
| Minimum | Maximum | |
| Purchase Price | $450 | $1700 |
| Annual Care Costs | $300 | $700 |
Diet
The Maine Coon reaches full size at 4–5 years. As kittens, they need nutrient-rich food, especially high-quality kibble. Adults require a diet based mainly on animal protein (meat and fish). Sardines are preferred over tuna due to lower heavy metal content.
They need plenty of water, so combining dry food (helps prevent tartar) and wet food (improves hydration) is ideal. Always provide clean, fresh water through a bowl or fountain. Premium brands like Hill’s offer complete nutrition tailored to their needs.
| Breed | Maine Coon |
| Other Name | Maine Shag |
| Origin | United States |
| Coat Type | Semi-long |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Weight (Female) | 4–8 kg (9–18 lbs) |
| Weight (Male) | 5–10 kg (11–22 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10–15 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
- Sources:
- Cat Fanciers’ Association
- The International Cat Association
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
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