Maine Coon - history of occurrence, description of the breed, character + 84 photos

Agree, modern conditions of the 21st century provide many opportunities to study in detail the available information about this or that breed of cats before purchasing a long-awaited pet and bringing an additional range of colors into your life - and Maine Coons are no exception.

It is enough to look once at a photo of a Maine Coon to feel admiration for these North American heroes.

Their unique appearance and impressive dimensions evoke respect from breeders, and their popularity and success are increasing every year.

Maine Coons enjoy no less respect in their homeland, where cats are officially considered as national pride.

These fluffy beauties became the favorites of breeders in record time, not only due to their amazing strength, but also because of their gentle nature in tandem with their unusual color, fluffy fur and cute tassels on the tips of their ears. There really is something to love about them.

Where did the breed come from?

An unusual and amazing Maine Coon breed. Its description, the name itself, literally translated as Manx cat, are very interesting. According to some data, the weight of the animal can reach as much as 15 kg.

Of all the known breeds, this is one of the largest, but despite this, the large Maine Coon easily gets along in the house and, I must say, gets along well with all its inhabitants. Harmonious relationships are achieved even with dogs. The length of the Maine is coon, the height of an adult is also large.

Varieties

Maine Coons come in two types. The American type is the original version of the breed. The European type was formed later, after the spread. Features of both types are shown in the table.

Table - Description of Maine Coon types

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether a cat belongs to one of the types. Not all breeders keep the traits pure - they are mixed.

A little history

These kittens are known for their high intelligence and self-confidence. The very name of this breed translates as “cat raccoons”. Indeed, their coat is very similar to that of raccoons.

Thanks to climatic conditions, Maine Coon kittens have such a thick coat. In the places where representatives of this breed were bred, the main emphasis was on agriculture. And such animals helped in becoming excellent mouse hunters. Therefore, the goal of the breeders was to breed pets that would be huge in size and lead an active lifestyle. This is exactly how these kittens turned out.

Starting from the 50s of the 19th century, Maine Coons began to take part in various cat shows. Thanks to this, such animals have become quite famous in many large and small towns in America. This breed began to compete with other known species. They were as popular as Persian or Angora cats.

But already in the twentieth century, interest in such cats began to gradually fade away. These animals again became helpers in the household. And starting from 1953, the breeding of representatives of this breed began to be actively pursued again. Thus, cats have become popular again not only in the USA, but also in other countries and continents. They again began to take first place in the ranking of furry animals. Many people began to purchase them so that their pets would please their eyes and become friends for all family members.

Maine Coon, the description of the breed, perhaps encourages many animal lovers to find out as much information as possible about the pet. Thus, it is known that the approximate time when people started talking about the breed seriously was no less than half a century ago.

It is quite possible that the Maine Coon, whose video is very popular on the Internet, is the result of a successful crossing of short-haired cats living in New England, in Maine, with imported long-haired cats that came to the territory thanks to the movement of traders. However, this, again, is one of the well-known versions.

It was widespread in America in the nineteenth century. It is worth saying that at that time Maine Coon kittens, whose photos now cause delight among many, did not attract the public attention they deserved. And this lasted until the breed was presented at the exhibition.

It is known that the black Maine Coon received a winner's medal, which has been preserved to this day and is in the CFA club.

With the advent of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, cats with pointy ears again became unpopular, and interest in them fell sharply. What this is connected with is unknown.

But, a few years later, already in the mid-twentieth century, fans of the Maine Coon animal began to correct the situation. Their photos were collected and presented in specialized clubs.

And what pushed them to take such a serious step was the announcement that the breed could be considered extinct... Thanks to considerable efforts, by 1956 it was possible to create a standard for individuals of this breed.

Almost twenty years later, the club was considered a serious organization and was treated with due respect. Currently, the adult Maine Coon ranks third in popularity. At the same time, it is worth adding that the first two places belong to exotic cats, the interest in which is quite obvious.

Breed Features

Representatives of this species have a rather unusual appearance. They have a powerful build, graceful muzzles and tufted ears that make these pets very similar to lynxes.

Also, these cute animals have large and beautiful eyes. Although they are a little askew, this does not detract from the majesty of the representatives of this breed. Typically, their eyes are green, but can also be amber or golden. About Maine Coon cats in the description of the breed it is said that they have a rather powerful chest.

This breed is considered one of the few species of natural origin. Therefore, it cannot be said about these kittens that they were individually bred. Due to the fact that in the state where they were bred it is quite cold, such animals have a warm coat that protects their body well in the cold season.

Since such cats often walked in the snow, their paws are rough with fur between the toes, which also warms them.

Representatives of the Maine Coon breed can reach up to 110 centimeters in height. Their weight can be up to 4-8 kilograms if they are cats, and from 8 to 12 if they are cats. A purebred pet's head is slightly elongated, with raised cheekbones near the muzzle. They can live from 15 to 20 years.

When talking about representatives of a particular breed, it is extremely important to note their characteristics. The Big Maine Coon is also no exception and certainly attracts attention. Indeed, the peculiarity of the cat lies in its incredibly large size, long hair and muscular, strong body.

The shape of the animal's chest is rectangular. The animal's head is large, and its muzzle features are expressive. A powerful neck of medium length only adds to the animal's stature.

The characteristic features of a cat are its ears, which are pointed at the ends. It is by these that the Maine Coon breed is most often recognized. Black, red or any other color of this animal does not go unnoticed.

What else can you say about the favorite of many pets? Perhaps the fact is that the Maine Coon, videos of which are presented in large numbers on the Internet, has very beautiful, expressive eyes.

Their color is usually green or golden. And their peculiarity is a slight slant.

Paws, when it comes to Maine Coon, the description of this breed also deserves attention. Cats have them - long and strong, incredibly strong, such that they can definitely withstand the weight of an adult.

The hair tufts located between the toes are also a kind of feature of the presented animal.

It is quite possible that its development is a consequence of adaptation to the harsh Russian winters (as well as long hair). The Maine Coon's tail is very fluffy and also large, conical in shape. Its peculiarity is its pointed end.

Interesting fact about animal fur. Long in the main part, on the shoulders and head it is, on the contrary, very short. The longest hairs are observed in the abdomen, on the back and sides. The undershort also has a dense pile that does not allow cold wind to pass through.

Where can I buy

The surest option is to buy Maine Coon babies from trusted breeders who have a certificate for breeding cats of this breed. At the same time, the seller should not interfere with a personal visit to the nursery to meet the future pet and its parents, as well as, upon first request, present the appropriate documents for the kitten.

However, professional breeders are difficult to find, especially in provincial cities. Therefore, buyers are looking for Maine Coons on the following trading platforms:

• At poultry markets. Not the best option. Meeting a purebred Maine Coon in such places is a rare success. Under the guise of purebred babies, they usually sell mestizos with fake documents.
• Avito, Yula and other online platforms. Here the chance of purchasing a purebred baby is slightly higher. To avoid becoming a victim of deception, you need to study the seller’s profile - registration date, number of successful transactions, reviews.
• Online nurseries. Not a bad option, although you can also stumble upon deception. Photos of kittens are often photoshopped and documents are forged.
• Exhibitions. Kittens are not sold directly at such events. But there you can meet professional breeders, as well as look at the parents of the babies.

To avoid fraud, it is also necessary to take into account the purchase price. A purebred Maine Coon cannot be cheap. The cost of representatives of the Pet class starts from 20 thousand rubles.

Character

Representatives of this breed become favorite pets for many people. Thanks to their huge shape and long hair, they have an attractive appearance. The character of such pets is flexible. They treat quite well both all members of the family in which they live, and other animals that live with them under the same roof.

If you want to buy a Maine Coon, then you should remember that they are quite calm. Kittens can simply sleep peacefully for a long time or lie next to their owner. They also love to play with all family members. These animals are prone to aggression in very rare cases.

Cats of this breed have a high level of intelligence. So, according to the owners of such pets, they will not steal food from the table or chew furniture. These animals clearly understand where the limit is between what they can do and what they can do, and what they cannot do at all.

Maine Coons, although they love to spend time with people, do not require special care or treatment. But, like many other pets, they cannot stand being alone, so leaving them alone for a long time is not recommended.

Documentation

There are various associations through which you can check the authenticity of a nursery's license (WCF, FIFe, Farus, TICA).

When selling an animal, several accompanying documents are attached:

1. Before five months, a metric is created, and after that it is exchanged for a pedigree. Without this paper, the pet will be considered not purebred.
2. Veterinary passport with information about vaccination and deworming. The certificate is issued in accordance with international standards. This is an ordinary medical card, like the one that is issued for a person in a clinic.
3. A purchase and sale agreement is drawn up, which specifies the cost, obligations and other terms of the transaction.
4. A small guide to the care, feeding and maintenance of a Maine Coon.
5. Breeding animals undergo a microchipping procedure, it is better if it is done by the breeder himself.

Character traits

The Maine Coon, whose photos always turn out beautiful and attractive, has a calm disposition by nature. This animal is not aggressive and therefore gets along well with all other animals.

Due to their meekness, representatives of the breed may seem arrogant, but this is far from the case. In fact, they become very attached to their owner and feel sad when he is not at home.

With great pleasure, the Maine Coon, whose size is quite impressive, goes for a walk, allowing him to put on a leash. In general, the disposition of the representatives of the breed is cheerful and good-natured.

When an animal is in the mood, it is not averse to playing and having fun. We can say that until its very maturity, part of the animal remains a Maine Coon kitten.

The weight of the animal and its large size do not interfere with having fun and actively moving. And here it is worth saying once again that, despite their large parameters, the individuals are not fat; on the contrary, their body is very strong, hardy and muscular.

Particular attention should be paid to intelligence. The thing is that by nature this animal is very smart and intelligent.

It has an excellent memory and remembers voices and intonations well, and can recognize its owner from a thousand. If desired, this animal can always be taught various tricks and performing simple tricks.

Working with an animal is a pleasure. Moreover, cats love to walk in nature. You can safely take them with you out of town, on short trips. They also handle the road quite well.

Another unusual side of the cat is its melodic voice, which is also difficult to confuse with any other. Moreover, it is interesting that each individual has its own voice timbre, unlike the others.

Non-aggressive by nature, the animal easily gets along with children, appearing before them as a kind of friend.

But what these cats will not tolerate in their environment is rodents. It is quite possible that such rejection is associated with the brutal instincts still living in the Maine Coon, pushing him to hunt.

On the other hand, a representative of the breed will be simply indispensable for a house in which mice live. With its appearance, such a problem can be forgotten once and for all. The Maine Coon is very attentive to strangers, but he is in no hurry to let people get too close to him, waiting to see how the owner himself will treat the guest.

So, summing up the positive traits that are inherent in the Maine Coon, we can say that these cats by their nature:

• Non-aggressive;
• Obedient;
• Peace-loving;
• Friendly;
• Flexible;
• Calm;
• They respect their masters;
• Get along well with children;
• Not conflicting;
• Unpretentious in care;
• Attractive;
• Smart enough;
• Active;
• Cheerful.

And those who have already read the reviews of Maine Coon owners want to have a pet of this breed. Considering the number of pros and not a single minus, it is very easy to understand them.

How to choose a Maine Coon

Small Maine Coons are born with an average weight of 130-150 grams, it all depends on the number of kittens in the litter.

The growth of a kitten is influenced by genetic factors and food, but psychological development is in the hands of the owner.

Newborns need to be protected from noise, drafts, temperature changes, and sharp sounds.

Maine Coons are very active and agile animals that love to frolic and play, which requires a fairly large space

Maine Coon kittens grow quickly, reaching the maximum active phase by 4-5 months.

At this time, the energy content of food and the animal’s mobility are important.

The owner’s task is to feed, play, play, feed, without fanaticism, adhering to parameters that are optimally comfortable for the baby.

Monitor your growing Maine's weight gain, mood, and temperament with your personal veterinarian.

Your reward will be friendship with a delightful representative of the cat family, a powerful, affectionate and devoted animal that adorns our lives.

How to care for the breed?

Caring for the breed cannot be called difficult. Food for Maine Coons, for example, is the most common. No specialized additions are required here. You can buy it at any pet store.

What else? Every owner of a purebred Maine Coon cat should be careful about their fur. Since it is very long, it will get confused more often. To avoid this, it needs to be combed from time to time, but this must be done carefully so that the animal does not get hurt.

Particular attention to wool will have to be paid once every year - during molting. A cat can sharpen its long claws using specialized equipment, which can also be purchased at a pet store.

The Maine Coon, which still weighs more than a typical cat, deserves a special place in the house. You can select it at your own discretion, depending on the arrangement of the apartment and other factors.

If one of the household members has the desire and ability to do something with their own hands, you can create favorable conditions for the cat by building a specially equipped place.

By the way, you can also make the popular scratching post yourself, and it’s not very difficult to do. Otherwise, all the necessary equipment can be purchased ready-made in the store.

The furry owner will be very happy with his personal space, a soft basket in which he can sleep or just take a nap after a hearty lunch. You can also please your friend with soft toys. For moments of fun, a loud ball or a squeaky mouse is suitable.

However, it is worth noting that all this attracts young cats more. As they grow up, they become lazier and less agile; as a rule, they no longer have time for games.

Breeding issues

Mating, caring for a cat during pregnancy, and proper delivery require responsibility from the breeder and an understanding of the peculiarities of these processes.

• Estrus. The age at which the first heat occurs varies from person to person. Puberty occurs late in Maine Coons. The norm is considered to be a time period of seven months to one and a half years.
• Preparing for mating. Before the first mating, they are tested for infections, given a comprehensive vaccination, dewormed, and the cat is treated for fleas and parasites.
• Knitting. It is carried out in the territory of the male. The cat is left for several days with a tray, a supply of food and other necessary things. The optimal time is the second or third day after the start of estrus.
• Pregnancy. Gestation of kittens lasts 65-68 days. During pregnancy, the cat should receive a balanced diet, vitamin supplements, and be regularly examined by a veterinarian.
• Childbirth. Maine Coons have a well-developed maternal instinct. Childbirth is usually easy, without complications. A small amount of red-brown discharge during the week after birth is considered normal.

If your cat continues to have strong contractions for one to two hours but is unable to give birth, you should call a veterinarian. Specialist intervention is required in case of intense bleeding, a sharp increase or decrease in temperature.

If the animal's health or non-compliance with breed standards does not allow serious breeding, it is better to think about sterilization or castration. Judging by the reviews and opinion of veterinarians, this reduces the risk of developing many diseases, increases the life expectancy of the pet, and has a beneficial effect on its character.

Maintenance and care

In order for your Maine Coon cat to feel comfortable in your home, he will need to create favorable conditions. To do this you will need:

• The first step is to choose the right litter tray. In order for the cat to get used to it, for the first time, it is necessary to use such a benefit with short sides. This animal needs to be toilet trained from a very early age, especially if the pet lives with you in an apartment or house.
• The cat must have its own place to rest. Therefore, the owner must immediately make a special bed for the pet, which should ideally suit the pet, given its size.
• You also need to buy toys for these cats.

Such an animal needs to be bathed once every 3-4 months. Carry out a weekly combing procedure. Particular attention will need to be paid to the cat's eyes, ears and teeth.

All about the Maine Coon breed

Training and education

You should try to accustom representatives of this breed to communicate with other people and animals as early as possible. As already mentioned, Maine Coons are cats that have a high level of intelligence, so you will need to take their training seriously.

They can be taught to perform many different commands by choosing the right teaching methodology. So, if an animal shows good results, then it needs to be encouraged. Price

If you want to buy yourself a Maine Coon, then first you need to check such a pet for the presence of various genetic diseases.

Recently, quite a few nurseries have appeared where you can choose a cat of this particular breed. They are expensive pets. So, for a Maine Coon the price can be from 200 to 2000 dollars.

Diseases and treatment

Maine Coons are distinguished by good health, but sometimes suffer from hereditary, genetic diseases. The following diseases pose the greatest danger.

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. A progressive cardiac disease leading to sudden death, heart attacks, and paralysis of the hind limbs.
• Spinal muscular atrophy. Characterized by damage to the motor neurons of the spinal cord. Expressed in weakness, muscle atrophy, shortened life expectancy.
• Polycystic kidney disease. It is characterized by the degeneration of the renal parenchyma into cystic formations.

The diseases are serious and difficult to treat. Basically, they resort to maintenance therapy, which improves the quality of life of the animal and prolongs its duration.

Price

The cost of the animal may depend on the place of sale, and you can buy a cat in a nursery or from a private owner. And, although the cost in the latter case may definitely be lower, it is not at all necessary that the animal will be purebred. In other words, with a private purchase there are significantly more risks. Another thing is nurseries.

Their addresses can be found on Internet resources, they are located in many cities and, in addition, there is the possibility of transportation. By dealing with nurseries, the breeder immediately receives several advantages.

First of all, he is confident that this is a real representative of the breed. Next, the purchase of an animal is accompanied by all the necessary documents and care tips.

They can also warn you about possible animal diseases and how they should be treated. Ideally, of course, if you feel something is wrong, you should immediately go to the veterinarian.

On the other hand, you can do something yourself, for example, cut off the damaged hair - in case of lichen, be sure to burn it, and treat the damaged areas of the skin with a specialized product. Unfortunately, this is true, and cats can get sick too, but it’s more difficult to tell them about it.

On average, the cost of a kitten can vary from $600 to $1,500.

Dangerous shining beauty

Responsible breeders are wary of breeding two white Maine cats, and with good reason. Radiant beauty is fraught with danger. Nature has decreed that the gene responsible for the appearance of an unusual color can simultaneously lead to deafness. Hearing is most often absent in blue-eyed cats. If the coon's eyes are different colors, then the deafness may be one-sided, on the side of the blue eye.

A common companion of white Maine cats is allergies. It makes the eyes water, the fur turns yellow, and the animal becomes more passive. At the first sign of an allergy, you should contact your veterinarian and be more careful when choosing food.

Choosing food for any snow white is a difficult task. In order not to lose the beautiful color, it is necessary to exclude products containing natural and synthetic dyes from your pet’s diet. Vegetables (beets, carrots, various algae), offal (liver, heart, kidneys), and various types of special cat food can reduce the whiteness of the color.

The photo shows the cat Columbus from the Gray Claw`s cattery

The photo shows the cat Columbus from the Gray Claw`s cattery

Photo

SONY DSC

In custody

Cats are naturally very intelligent creatures. It is not for nothing that for some time in their history they were wild, had no relation to humans and, despite this, existed perfectly well. Now times have changed, and cats are more attached to people. The person takes care of them, feeds them.

Having taken on such responsibility, be sure to fulfill it to the end. Not just love your animal, but also respect it, listen to its desires and interests. Only then can mutual understanding arise between the owner and the pet, and this is very important. After all, the whole point is that cats feel well on a subconscious level.

Their intuition is quite developed, and it is simply impossible to deceive it. That is why, even in a large family where everyone loves their pet, the cat is more attached to one person, the one whom it considers its owner, who cares and looks after it the most. A cat's love is always mutual, and the Maine Coon breed is no exception to this, but rather, on the contrary, a clear confirmation.

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