Cats are cherished by many and a very popular breed among the lot is the Maine Coon. While they might be popular, not everyone knows all there is to know about this feline.
Therefore, in this quick guide, we will tell you all the important things you need to know about the Maine Coon cat such as its origin, personality, and physical characteristics.
Origin
There are several theories surrounding the origin of this feline but we will look at a few of them briefly. One thing you need to know is that all the theories agree that the recognition of this breed was first in Maine. This is where it got its name from.
Let’s check out the origin theories…
1. Raccoon theory
Take away “rac” from the word raccoon and you are left with just “coon” which is the last name of the Maine Coon cat. Many have said that this breed is a product of crossbreeding with raccoons and their name is a reference to that.
Apart from that, the physical characteristics of this furry creature such as their big and fluffy tails coupled with their natural tendency to put their food into water point to the relationship to raccoons. This physical characteristic and behavior are common among raccoons.
However, this theory doesn’t hold water because crossing a raccoon and a cat is not possible biologically speaking.
2. Bobcat Theory
Another theory says that this domestic housecat was created when Bobcats mated with domestic housecats. Those who support this use the ear tufts, large paws, and huge size of this feline as evidence.
However, this is also not true as such mating is also biologically impossible.
3. Queen Marie Theory
This theory could be true. It suggests that this breed descends from the longhaired cats that belong to Queen Marie Antoinette. Click here to read about this Queen of France.
A captain named Clough smuggled these cats into America. He then settled in Maine according to certain historians.
4. The Voyage
Others guess that a captain known only as Coon had longhaired cats on his ship during his exploration of the northeastern coast of the United States around the 1700s. It is said that the felines onboard dealt with the rodents.
When they settled onshore, these kitties mated with the cats in the region which resulted in the current cat breed.
5. Most Likeliest Truth
This seems to be the most realistic and logical of the theories. It states that this cat breed originally was onshore in Maine back then and was accepted by farmers into farms since they could hunt rodents excellently.
The cold nature of the location then was no problem for these tabbies since they had plush coats which they developed due to natural selection. Hence, they grew large and were able to adapt and also survive in such a region.
Despite all these theories, the main origin of this breed is not so clear. Nevertheless, they have become very popular over the years. In fact, towards the end of the 19th century when the cat fancy when began to recognize cat breeds, the Maine Coon was among the first recognized breeds.
Personality
If you own one of these, you can count on it to be devoted to your family. Although they don’t love cuddling, they still prefer being close to you. Hence, you might end up having them escort you as you move within the home. They love being involved in everything you do.
Despite their loving and friendly nature, they tend to be shy initially; therefore, you will need to give them time to get used to new environments and routines. During this period of adaption, it is a period to gain their trust. How you deal with them during this period of adaption will determine the level of the bond they form with you and your family.
Once they have overcome their timidity, you will notice how eccentric they can be. You will come to learn how much they love water. One reason why they aren’t deterred from water like most cats is because of their water-repellent coats. Visit https://www.britannica.com/story/why-do-cats-hate-water to learn why cats hate water. Hence, you will catch them placing their paws under any source of running water. They don’t mind even getting into the shower with you.
You should also expect a lot of “talking” from this cat. They will meow about almost everything; their opinion must be heard. Interestingly, despite their large size, their meow is high-pitched yet soft. You shouldn’t be surprised if you hear them cooing or chirping or making some other weird sounds.
Physical Characteristics
The large size of the Maine Coon is the outstanding characteristic of this breed, but that’s not all that makes them unique. Let’s quickly look at its physical characteristics:
1. Size
Weight according to legend: 60 pounds.
Male average weight: 27 pounds.
Female average weight: 17 pounds.
Average length: 3.3 feet.
2. Eye color
Normal coated breed: Gold, copper, or green-gold.
Bicolor or white-coated variation: Blue or dissimilar eye color.
3. Coat
Size: Heavy and shaggy with 3 varying lengths. The shoulder coat is shorter but that of the britches and the stomachs are longer.
Pattern: All sorts of pattern except chocolate and lavender.
Color: Any.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the origin, personality, and physical characteristics of the Maine Coon cat Breed.
