The City Felines: Cats On Main

Cats on Main? You must mean the Maine Coon, one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world. These gentle giants are native to the U.S. state of Maine, where they are the official state cat. With their large size, fluffy fur, and dog-like characteristics, Maine Coons are a popular choice for pet owners. But how much do you really know about this mysterious breed?

History of the Maine Coon

The origins of the Maine Coon are shrouded in myth and folklore. One tale claims that Maine Coons are the result of breeding between cats and raccoons, hence their name and large size. Another legend states that Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, fled to the U.S. with her beloved Turkish Angora cats, eventually landing in Maine. While the truth behind these stories remains uncertain, it is clear that the Maine Coon has captured the hearts of cat lovers worldwide.

Characteristics of the Maine Coon

Maine Coons are known for their impressive stature, with males weighing up to 25 pounds and females reaching 14 pounds. Their bodies are long and rectangular, with thick, long coats that help them survive harsh winters. Maine Coons also have distinctive physical features, including large paws, bushy tails, and strong jawlines reminiscent of a lion's. They come in a variety of coat colours and patterns, including black, lavender, tabby, and blotched.

Caring for a Maine Coon

Maine Coons require plenty of space, exercise, and social interaction. They are intelligent and curious, making them ideal for training and learning tricks. They also have a laid-back temperament and get along well with children and other pets. However, potential owners should be aware that Maine Coons can be vocal, meowing, yowling, and chirping to express themselves.

Health Considerations

Maine Coons are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, spinal muscular atrophy, and polycystic kidney disease. They also have shorter lifespans than other cat breeds, with an average lifespan of about 13 years. Prospective owners should consider purchasing health insurance for their Maine Coon kitten to help manage these potential health concerns.

Feeding a Maine Coon

When it comes to diet, Maine Coons require a protein-rich diet to sustain their muscle mass and energy levels. They should be fed food specifically formulated for their life stage, such as kitten or adult cat food. It is also important to provide them with wide food and water bowls to accommodate their long whiskers.

Grooming a Maine Coon

Maine Coons have thick, long coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Brushing their fur two to three times a week is recommended, and professional grooming may be needed for more extensive mats. While baths are not necessary, some Maine Coons may enjoy the occasional bath, especially if introduced to it at a young age.

Cost of a Maine Coon

Maine Coons can cost anywhere between $400 and $2,000, making them a significant financial investment. However, their friendly personalities and striking appearance continue to make them a popular choice for cat enthusiasts worldwide.

Maine Coon characteristics

The Maine Coon is a large domesticated cat breed, native to the U.S. state of Maine, where it is the official state cat. It is one of the largest domesticated cats, with males weighing from 18 to 22 lb (8.2 to 10 kg) and females weighing from 12 to 15 lb (5.4 to 6.8 kg). They are often referred to as "the gentle giant" due to their size and dense coat of fur, which helps them survive in harsh climates. They are also known for their dog-like characteristics, being friendly, intelligent, and gentle.

Maine Coons have a distinctive physical appearance, with a long, shaggy coat, large tufted ears, and a strong jawline. Their coats are usually fine and soft, with a variety of colours and patterns, although chocolate, lavender, and the Himalayan pattern are not accepted by breed standards. They are also known for their vocalisations, expressing themselves through meows, chirps, and trills.

Maine Coons are sociable and inquisitive, often found wherever the action is in the house. They are trainable and enjoy learning tricks, responding well to positive training methods and food treats. They are also natural swimmers and have a weather-proof, semi-water-repellent coat.

In terms of health, Maine Coons may be affected by certain medical conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, spinal muscular atrophy, and gingivitis. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, especially in males, and can be more susceptible to heart conditions. As such, regular vet check-ups are recommended to stay on top of any health issues.

Maine Coon history

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, originating in the US state of Maine, where it is the official state cat. It is one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, with a distinctive physical appearance and valuable hunting skills.

The exact origins of the Maine Coon are shrouded in mystery, folk tales, and myths. One myth claims that the Maine Coon is a hybrid between a domesticated cat and another animal species, such as a raccoon or bobcat. While this theory is genetically impossible, the Maine Coon's physical resemblance to these animals, as well as its love of water, has fuelled this speculation.

Another story suggests that the breed is descended from the cats of Marie Antoinette, who attempted to flee France during the Revolution. According to this tale, six Turkish Angora cats reached Maine aboard Antoinette's ship, where they bred with local short-haired cats. A similar theory credits English seafarer Captain Charles Coon, who took his long-haired cats with him on his voyages, allowing them to breed with local cats whenever his ship anchored in New England.

The most plausible theory, supported by phylogenetic studies, suggests that the Maine Coon is descended from cats brought to New England by Puritan settlers in the 1600s and 1700s. The breed likely evolved to have a large, hardy physique with a thick, shaggy coat to survive the harsh winters of the region.

The first mention of the Maine Coon in writing was in 1861 in Frances Simpson's "The Book of the Cat." During this period, farmers in Maine began exhibiting their "coon cats" at the Skowhegan Fair, competing for the title of ""Maine State Champion Coon Cat." The breed gained popularity and began to appear in cat shows in the late 19th century, with a female brown tabby Maine Coon named Cosey winning the first North American cat show in 1895.

In the early 20th century, the introduction of other long-haired breeds, such as the Persian, led to a decline in the Maine Coon's popularity. The breed was even declared extinct in the 1950s, although this was later proven to be exaggerated. However, through the efforts of dedicated breeders and enthusiasts, the Maine Coon made a comeback and regained recognition in the 1970s. Today, it is one of the most popular and well-loved cat breeds in the world.

Maine Coon care

Maine Coon cats are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world. They are known for their distinctive physical appearance and valuable hunting skills. They have a dense coat of fur, large paws, and a long, bushy tail, all of which help them survive in harsh winter climates.

Environment

Maine Coons require plenty of space, hiding spots, and sleeping areas. They also need lots of cat toys to keep them busy and prevent boredom. They require more social interaction than most cats and benefit from human companionship.

Grooming

The Maine Coon's plush coat needs extra care compared to other cat breeds. Daily grooming and regular maintenance, such as claw clipping and fur trimming, are necessary to keep their coat in good condition. If brushing is neglected for even a week or two, the coat will likely develop tangles and mats, which are challenging to remove.

Diet

Maine Coons need a protein-rich diet to sustain their muscle mass and energy levels. Their diet should include high-quality, premium cat food with a protein source like chicken, lamb, or fish as the first ingredient. Wet food is generally preferred by cats, but dry food is more affordable.

Health

There are several specific medical issues that prospective Maine Coon owners should be aware of, including hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, gingivitis, and spinal muscular atrophy. It is essential to ensure that your Maine Coon comes from health-tested parents to avoid potential health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups and parasite prevention are also crucial for maintaining your cat's health.

Cost

The cost of owning a Maine Coon can be significant. In addition to the initial purchase price, which can range from $500 to $3,000 for a purebred kitten, there are ongoing expenses such as food, litter, toys, and veterinary care. Pet insurance is also recommended to cover unexpected medical bills.

Maine Coon health

Overview

Maine Coons are generally a hardy and resilient breed of cat, but like other purebred cats, they are predisposed to certain diseases. With proper care, they can live comfortably for 12-15 years, and sometimes even up to 20 years.

Hereditary Health Issues

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Spinal muscular atrophy is caused by a recessive gene and affects the nerves in the cat's spine that control its limbs. While not fatal or extremely painful, SMA does affect the quality of a Maine Coon's life. Symptoms include visible loss of muscle mass in the hind legs and muscular tremors and contractions. There is currently no way to slow down the progression of SMA, but with proper care and nourishment, cats with SMA can still live a good life. It is recommended that cats with SMA live indoors to minimise the risk of injuries and have their food, water, and favourite toys kept within immediate reach.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM is the most common heart disease in adult and senior Maine Coons. It is caused by abnormally thick heart walls, which prevent the heart from pumping blood efficiently and can lead to blood clots in the veins. The outcome is often fatal, resulting in sudden death or death caused by complications due to poor blood circulation. While there is no cure for HCM, it can be managed through medication, a low-sodium diet, and certain essential amino and fatty acids. Annual cardiac ultrasounds are recommended for Maine Coons once they reach adulthood (around six years old).

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a hereditary disease that causes cysts to form in a cat's kidneys. These cysts start appearing in kittenhood and grow as the cat ages, potentially resulting in kidney failure. There is no cure for PKD, but it can be managed through a balanced diet low in sodium and fat, regular check-ups, and medication if needed. Keeping blood pressure and blood sugar in check can also help lower the risk of PKD.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is an orthopaedic condition caused by abnormal hip joint development, which can lead to the dislocation of the hip bone. It is more common in larger cat breeds, such as Maine Coons, and can be caused by obesity. Symptoms include an inability to jump or climb, reluctance to get up from a sitting position, and reduced thigh muscle mass in the hind legs. Treatment options range from pain medication to joint surgery, and weight maintenance is essential for pain relief.

Stomatitis

Stomatitis is a painful oral inflammation that can affect Maine Coons at any life stage and is often caused by inflammatory conditions or dental issues. Symptoms include loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, dropping and avoiding food, a matted and messy coat, and howling while eating. There is no specific test for stomatitis, but it can be diagnosed through an X-ray, bloodwork, or oral cavity examination. While there are no efficient medications for stomatitis, cold laser therapy and a diet of meat and fish can help reduce inflammation. In advanced stages, tooth extraction may be necessary.

Lifestyle-Related Health Problems

Obesity

Maine Coons can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or given an inappropriate diet. A diet high in calories and carbs is not suitable for this breed, and obesity can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes. A high-quality, lean meat diet with appropriate portion sizes is recommended to maintain a healthy weight.

Dental Problems

Poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits can lead to dental issues such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption. Regular teeth brushing (2-4 times a week) and a protein-based diet without sugar or artificial colours can help prevent these issues.

Maine Coon fun facts

Origin Theories

There are several theories about how the Maine Coon cat got its name. One is that English seafarer Captain Charles Coon took his long-haired cats to sea, which then bred with local cats when the ship docked in New England. Another theory is that Maine Coons are related to the Norwegian Forest cat and were brought over to Maine by European seafarers in the 19th century. A third story involves Marie Antoinette, who attempted to flee France with her favourite Turkish Angora cats. She made it to the US, and the cats landed on the shores of Wiscasset, Maine, where they bred with local breeds.

Unique Characteristics

The Maine Coon is the largest domesticated cat breed. It has a distinctive physical appearance, with a long, feathered tail and a dark brown tabby coat. They are excellent climbers and are much larger than the average domestic cat. They are also polydactyl cats, meaning they have more toes than average cats. Their paws are snowshoe-like, which helps them navigate extreme snowy conditions.

Popularity

Maine Coons are one of the most popular breeds of domestic cats today. They are known for their friendly and gentle nature, and are relatively easy to train. They are also very active and enjoy playing and being trained. They are great climbers and love water, happily jumping into your bath!

Health

Maine Coons can suffer from hereditary health problems such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia. They also have a naturally slow growth rate and don't reach their full size until they are about 3 to 5 years old. On average, males weigh from 18 to 22 pounds, with females weighing from 12 to 15 pounds.

Frequently asked questions