Featured Feline: Maine Coon Cat – Traits, Temperament, & Trivia
Majestic, powerful, and purring with personality, the Maine Coon cat is one of the largest and most desired domestic cats in the United States! Discover the Maine Coon’s rich history, fascinating qualities, and how to care for such an inquisitive cat.
Size: Large
Weight: 15-25 lbs
Hypoallergenic: No
Eyes: Green, gold, or copper
Coat Length: Long-haired
Coat Pattern: Solid, partially colored, two-color, tabby, tortoiseshell, torbie
Personality: Friendly, smart, peaceful with other pets
Origin: USA
History
Maine Coons originated in the American Northeast around the 19th century, specifically near the border of Maine and Canada. In fact, they are the official state cat of Maine! The second part of the name was inspired by their tail, which reflects a resemblance to raccoons!
The Maine Coon’s history goes even further back, with many cat enthusiasts drawing parallels to the majestic Norwegian Forest Cat. Just like the Norwegian Forest Cat, the Maine Coon is a large cat breed with a heavy coat and bobcat-like ears that help them survive frigid climates. Many Maine Coon aficionados believe these two breeds are distantly related.
Temperament & Purrrsonality
Maine Coons are the perfect companions because of their gentle temperament. Playful and curious, these cats are affectionately known as “forever kittens” due to their extroverted personality and love for playtime. The Maine Coon is a wonderful family pet: they don’t crave attention but enjoy receiving love from their pet parents. They are down for a cuddle sesh and may be your shadow at times!
Highly inquisitive, the Maine Coon cat is intelligent and likes to know what’s happening in their home. They notice the things around them and are likely to pick up household routines. Don’t be surprised if they start to recognize what time you leave for work or know when it’s time for dinner. These cats like to think and solve problems: give them a puzzle treat toy or feeder, and they’ll be entertained!
Energy Level
Maine Coon cats have a big personality! This people-oriented kitty has medium-to-high energy levels that can be placated by interaction with other pets or children. This cat breed provides a balance of playfulness with poise. Engage your Maine Coon kitty when they get the zoomies with activities like explorative puzzle toys and interactive games that satisfy their hunting behaviors.
Training
Maine Coons are highly trainable, with plenty of intelligence and enthusiasm to learn tricks or commands. They are fast learners, so training them to walk on a lead or leash shouldn’t be too difficult.
Think you can’t train your cat to shake paw or high five? Think again. With enough practice, short, upbeat training sessions, encouragement, and some treat-based rewards, your Maine Coon can learn tricks with ease, thanks to their amazing trainability.
Grooming & Coat Care
The Maine Coon is one of the few cat breeds with thick, long, and luscious locks that require consistent upkeep to ensure a healthy appearance. If they don’t have help with grooming, the Maine Coon might only clean the top layer of their fur.
If you don’t take care of your kitty regularly, their undercoat can become matted and dry. Ensure you have the proper grooming tools to keep your Maine Coon cat looking their best! Start with a slicker brush, which features flexible wires to capture loose hair and groom your cat gently. If your kitty is keen on looking sharp, some shampoo before grooming time will moisturize their skin for a healthier, shinier coat. When you’re all done with their coat care, don’t forget your nail clippers for a quick trim.
🐾 RELATED: How to Trim a Cat’s Nails in 5 Easy Steps
The “Maine” Attraction
Bright eyed and bushy tailed, the Maine Coon is a friendly kitty who will love to curl up next to you as much as they love to play with you! Looking for a cat that checks all the boxes? The Maine Coon cat may just be the purrr-fect one for you.
