Maine Coon
Maine Coon
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
- Other names: The Gentle Giant
- Scientific name Felis catus
- Higher classification: Cat
- Cat Rank: Breed
Maine Coon cat Breed Information
Maine Coon is one of the oldest domestic North American breeds having a distinctive appearance and distinguished hunting skills. The breed was popular in cat shows but eventually, its existence became frightening when long-haired breeds got introduced in the early 20th century. Maine coon is a large socializing animal and hence is nicknamed “Gentle Giant”.
Different Colours
- White
- Black
- Orange (rarest)
- Blue
- Cream
- Silver (rare)
Characteristics
Maine Coon flaunts a prominent tuff along its chest, rectangular body shape, robust bone structure, and uneven two-layered coat with long hair over silky satin undercoat.
The ears have a feathered appearance and their paws have tufts that extend backward, granting them a snowshoe-like function. Having a playful and gentle personality, Maine coon is often believed to have dog-like characteristics.
Maine Coon comes in a variety of colors that include tortoiseshell and tabby. The colors of the eyes can range anywhere between gold, copper, green. Whereas in white Maine Coon cats, blue or odd eye color is not uncommon.
Male Maine Coon weigh around 6 and 8 kg and females weigh around 4-6 kg. To talk about height, they flaunt a good height of 41cm.
Average Weight
On average, the male Maine Coon weighs around 13-18 lb (5.9 to 8.2kg) and females around 8-12 lb (3.6 to 4.6 kg). To talk about height, it can vary in adults from (25-41 cm) and can reach a length of about 97cm. They do not reach their full size until they get 3-5 years old. In Contrast to Maine coon cats, other cats generally take a year to grow fully.
Personality
Maine Coon is not only huge in height but in personality too. It is the largest in the cat breed. It is known for its sweet-tempered and caring nature. She adores her owners and adapts to any environment easily if it has a good exercise room.
The best part about having them as a pet is you don’t have to worry about your guests getting afraid of their appearance. Maine coons are social cats and get along well with any and every person in the room.
Moreover, if you are a frequent traveler, then there is no better company than Maine Coon. She is willing to play fetch and willing to learn to walk on a leash.
The interesting trait of Maine Coon is she can communicate in a variety of sounds. Apart from the cat sounds, you can hear them chirping, and trilling. She never sways away from revealing affection for its owner.
They are playful and get along well with other cats and dogs. She shares a fascination for water, a trait that traces back to their ancestors who boarded ships for much of their lives.
Health Issues
Like humans, cats too are prone to developing potential genetic issues. While Maine Coons are generally healthy and strong to survive the harshest of England’s climate, they are still prone to suffer from HCM (Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy). HCM is a progressive disease that could eventually lead to heart failure in Maine Coons.
Another common health issue in Maine Coons is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). It is also a genetic disease in which the cat loses the potential to activate the skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. It is due to spinal cord neurons. The symptoms of muscle atrophy or weakness can be generally diagnosed at the age of 3-5 months in Maine Coon.
Apart from these, Maine Coon can develop Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Hip Dysplasia diseases as well. Detecting it early is important else it could lead to chronic renal failure. Check out for symptoms like vomiting, drinking excessively, lethargy and depression. Don’t need to worry as certain symptoms are treatable with the right diet and hormone therapy.
Diet
Given a gigantic body structure and weight, Maine Coon requires sufficient nutritious food. While choosing the right diet it is imperative to consider at what stage your Maine Coon is.
Maine Coons grow at a slower rate than other cats. Thus, the diet should be by it. The diet should consist of a dry kibble containing the following ingredients:
- Proteins
- Vitamins
- Fatty acids
- Carbohydrates
Adult Maine Coon’s diet should include high protein, Vitamin A, Low carbohydrates, and Fatty acids. Dry Kibble helps in reducing tarter and build and keeps the jaws healthy.
Eye Color
The golden and green eyes are considered as desirable by cat governing bodies. Moreover, White Maine Coons can have blue, odd-eye (blue, with gold or green) Maine Coon kittens change their eye color as they grow.
That’s all about Maine Coon. Hope you like the information. Stay tuned for more.
Exercise
The most important factor that helps in maintaining the health of Maine Coon is -EXERCISE. Although, cats are known for being playful and active, their exercise needs may vary. Maine Coon are interested in outdoor activities and you can keep them occupied for hours with some engaging play. 15-20 minutes of exercise is imperative for Maine Coon to maintain body structure.
Shedding
In terms of shedding, here ‘s good news for you. Maine coon doesn’t shed much. Instead, these cats produce more unwanted hair than other cat breeds.
Some shed less while others shed excessively. This breed sheds at different rates throughout the year.
Maine Coons have fluffy coats and if they are undergoing a disease, they might shed at an alarming rate. Some of the major causes can be allergies, diet, parasites, stress, or hormonal imbalance. Furthermore, stress, an imbalanced diet, nutrition lacks, or grooming issues can be the major reasons for this.
Check for fleas and ticks, include more Omega 3 acids for healthier hair in the diet.