Most Main Coon have similar physical characteristics, but there are many different breeds of cats, just as there are many different breeds of dogs. The difference is that different breeds of dogs look a great deal different from other breeds, while the same can not be said of cats. However, if you are a cat lover, you know that you have to look at the whole picture when it comes to cats, to see that there really is a difference in breeds. The Maine Coon Cat is one of the oldest breeds in existence, and they are often thought to be one of the most beautiful cat breeds. The Maine Coon is also one of the largest breeds of domestic cats.
Maine Coon Cats are quite intelligent, and are also thought to be one of the most playful breeds. The breed was first documented in New England, and it is the first indigenous show cat in the United States. These large cats are often referred to as gentle giants. It is believed that these cats developed, as far back as the 17th or 18th century. The cats came to America on ships from Europe although not intentionally, in most cases. Because of the harsh winters in New England, the Maine Coon became a very tough cat, and naturally developed in such a way that they are able to withstand extreme winter temperatures.
There are many myths concerning Maine Coon Cats. Some believe that this special breed is a mix between a raccoon and a cat, but this isn’t so, as it would not be naturally possible. It is actually believed, although not documented, that the Maine Coon Cat is a product of natural breeding between short haired cats and the cats that came from overseas. These were most likely Angora cats, also known as long haired cats.
Maine Coon Cats have exceedingly long hair, when compared to other cat breeds. They are actually quite big, and have an abundance of energy. An adult Maine Coon cat weigh up to twelve pounds or more, and the males are usually slightly larger than the females. Another unique characteristic of the Maine Coon is their length. They grow to be approximately 40 inches long. Because they are so large, however, they actually take longer to reach full size than other cat breeds. Most cats are fully grown by the time they are a year old.
The Maine Coon, however, doesn’t reach his full size until he is four or five years old. Maine Coon Cats come in a variety of shades and colors, as well as patterns. The only appearance that isn’t possible for a pure bred Maine Coon is that of a Siamese cat. Their eyes can also be any shade, except blue eyes are only acceptable for Maine Coons with white fur. Again, they have long hair, but the hair is the longest on the ruff, which is the area between the chin and the chest. All of their fur is quite soft.
Designed for extreme winter weather, Maine Coon Cats have two layers of fur. The outer coat is referred to as the guard hairs, while the inner coat is the undercoat. The hair on the britches, or the hips and back legs, is also typically longer on Maine Coon Cats. They also have hair growing between the pads of their paws, or their toes. The Maine Coon Cats tail is quite majestic in appearance. It is usually plumed. This breed also typically has ears that are wide-set, and slightly longer than that of other cat breeds. Some Maine Coons have an extra toe on their paws, and are referred to as polydactyl. However, most breeders today breed out the polydactyl.
There are those who say that cats cannot be trained, but Maine Coon Cats are intelligent enough to be trained. In fact, many people liken Maine Coon Cats to dogs. Just as a dog will get his ball, and let you know that he wants to play a Maine Coon Cat will bring the ball to you, so that you can entertain him by throwing it. He will run after it, but he will have to be trained to bring the ball back to you. While most cats will hear you calling, take a message, and get back to you at a time that is more convenient to them, the Maine Coon Cat is more likely to run to you when you call him. Maine Coons are also quite dexterous, which can get them into trouble, if the owner is not careful. They like to pick things up with their ‘hands,’ and this also quickly allows them to have the ability to open cabinets, drawers, turn on water faucets, and even to flush the toilet.
Maine Coon Cats can be as curious and as naughty as two year olds if they are left to their own devices for too long. They will often ‘act out’ to get attention when they are bored or unhappy. When this happens, they will often knock things off of tables, scratch at mirrors or windows, or even nip at your legs until you pay them the attention that they want. As you can see by now, the Maine Coon Cat is not your ordinary house cat. This is a breed of cat that people want for their beauty and intelligence. These cats often participate in cat shows, and you aren’t likely to find a Maine Coon kitten being given away for free in your local paper, or in front of your local grocery store. Before you get a Maine Coon Cat, read on for more vital information concerning this very special breed.
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