Maine Coon

Friendly cats resemble dogs in size and personality. They become very attached to their owner, setting him apart from other people. As a true companion, Maine Coon will spend all his time close to him. At the same time, the pet will not be intrusive. The cat perfectly senses the mood of the owner and quickly gets used to his habits.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The breed first appeared in Maine in the 19th century. From here comes the name of the Maine Coon. There are several versions of the origin of the breed. According to one of them, Maine Coon appeared due to mating a cat and a female raccoon. In its favor testifies the color of the tail, as in a raccoon. According to another legend, the North American lynx was crossed with a cat, hence the tassels on the cat’s ears. Also, one legend says that longhaired cats belonged to Marie Antoinette. She sent them to the States on a separate ship.

The already formed breed was first shown at a show back in 1878. Even then, it gained great popularity. In 1953, an official club of Maine Coon breed lovers appeared. In Europe, cats came only in the 70s of the 20th century. Today, Maine Coons are also fervently loved. They rank second in popularity after the Persian cat, according to Cat Fanciers.

Appearance

The Maine Coon is a huge cat, which reaches a weight of 10 kg. The pet’s height at the withers is 30-40 cm, and its body length can reach 120 cm. At the same time, it is strong and muscular. The chest of the cat is wide, and the back is horizontal. Limbs high and massive, widely spaced. Maine Coon tail long – up to 36 cm. It is thick at the base and covered with thick fur. Its length over the body varies from 10 to 15 cm.

The pet’s neck is medium length, strong and muscular. On it sits a massive, elongated forward head. The nose is of medium length, and the cheekbones are high. The Maine Coon’s round eyes are set wide and slightly slanted. The iris color is green or yellow. The large ears are slightly tilted forward, with “lynx tassels” present at the ends.

Character

Friendly cats resemble dogs in size and personality. They become very attached to their owner, setting him apart from other people. As a true companion, Maine Coon will spend all his time close to him. At the same time, the pet will not be intrusive. The cat perfectly senses the mood of the owner and quickly gets used to his habits.

Maine Coons have a calm temperament and love to sleep during the day. But you can’t call this animal a sloth. The cat also loves to play, so he gets on well with children. But certainly not allow itself to be petted. The Maine Coon cat is neutral to strangers. With other animals, get along well.

Care

The best habitat for a Maine Coon would be a country house. There the cat will be able to feel freedom, walk freely and hunt rodents. Naturally, the pets will adapt to life in the apartment as well. Except that you will have to walk your pet in the fresh air regularly.

It is enough to brush Maine Coon’s long hair several times a week. You should not bathe your pet more often than once every three weeks. Tailed cat loves water procedures. Pay special attention to the ears of the cat, clean them from dirt in time. Claws of the Maine Coon should be trimmed every week. The pet needs a large and deep litter box, according to its size.

Education

It’s easy to train a Maine Coon to the litter box and scratching post. The intelligent animal is easy to train. The pet has a genius memory and easily learns all the commands. Training is best done in the form of a game. This way, the cat will be more interesting. It will not get boring, and at the same time, it will release the accumulated energy. If the pet has problems with commands, do not shout. Be patient and calm, and motivate the cat with treats.

Common Diseases

Maine Coons have good health. However, they are characterized by the following hereditary diseases:

• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy;
• hip dysplasia;
• polycystic kidney disease;
• spinal muscular atrophy.

Cats of this breed are not prone to colds and infectious diseases. With proper care, the pet will live up to 15 years. Don’t forget to consult a veterinarian occasionally and get routine vaccinations.

Nutrition

The active big guys need a lot of energy. Therefore, the basis of the pet’s diet should be protein products. Boiled chicken and beef will come in handy. Sea fish, eggs, and dairy products are also suitable. Do not forget about the benefits of fruits and vegetables. Exclude pork, chicken, and other bones from your pet’s diet. Categorically do not give him sweet and salty foods and potatoes.

Dry premium food is also suitable for Maine Coon nutrition. They contain the nutrients necessary for the proper growth of the pet. Also, pay attention to the choice of the food bowl. It should be large and comfortable. Glass, ceramic or stainless steel are acceptable materials. It is better not to use plastic to avoid allergic rashes.