Breed Spotlight: The Maine Coon Cat

Introduction

Tha Maine Coon cat is one of the largest, and most beautiful, cat breeds.

The beginnings of this breed are shrouded in legend.  Some believe this revolutionary breed stemmed from cats sent over by none other than Marie Antoinette herself.  Others believe the name to be a literal proclamation of interbreeding between raccoons and cats. Yet another legend believes the breed to be named after Captain Charles Coon, whose long haired feline shipmates mated with cats felines when the ship was docked. Regardless of how the Maine Coon Cat came into being, the breed remains legendary because of its outstanding personality and structural integrity.

The bushy tail of the Maine Coon cat resembles that of the raccoon.

Breed characteristic appearance

The Maine Coon cat knows what it means to be larger then life! Males weight between 15 and 25 pounds.  They are muscular creatures, and don’t reach their mature weight until they are three or four years old.  The cats are medium to long haired, but with a thin undercoat thereby requiring minimal grooming. Maine Coon cats can come in just about any color, and any eye color. The exceptions are coat colors that suggest hybridization with another purebred cat (Siamese coloring, etc.) and blue or unmatched eyes in cats with non-white coats.

Maine Coons have large feet, heavily tufted ears, large eyes and a square muzzle. All of their characteristics relate to surviving in harsh climates.  The Maine Coon cat is a hearty breed meant to withstand the cool temperatures of New England.

The coat, feet, ears, and tail of the Main Coon are formed to help this breed survive in frigid temperatures.

Genetic Health Problems

Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is the most common heart disease in cats. In both Maine Coon cats and Domestic Shorthairs, it is known to be an autosomal dominant trait. It is caused by a mutation in a protein called cardiac myosin binding protein C.  This disease can cause heart murmurs, thromboembolitic disease, and heart failure. Unfortunately, sometimes death can be the first sign noticed. This disease will most likely affect middle aged to older cats.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy:  This disease results in muscle atrophy, weakness and a shortened lifespan. It is often seen by 3-4 months of age. It is caused by degeneration of neurons.  Symptoms can range form mild to severe. Tests are available to screen for this disease.

Hip dysplasia: This is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that is very painful, and causes arthritis. However in 2007 a survey declared about 27% of Maine Coon cats were affected at the time.  Screening consists of sending a radiograph to the Hip Dysplasia Registry of the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals. Orthopedic specialists then review the radiograph and assign a rating to the animal.  Breeders use this rating to select the best cats to breed.  Weight management and exercise are used to help control arthritis caused by hip dysplasia.

Polycystic Kidney Disease: This disease will most likely pop up around 7 years of age and can cause kidney failure. It is through to be possible in Maine Coon cats, although it is much more likely to occur in Persians. Careful breeding should help weed out this genetic disease.

Is the Maine Coon cat right for you?

The Maine Coon cat is suitable for most owners as they are easy to groom, easy to train, and are affectionate.  One weekly brushing is usually all that is required to keep the cat in good condition. Large families will provide lots of entertainment for a Maine Coon cat.  This cat will be able to coexist in a house with other pets, such as dogs, provided they are cat friendly! The Maine Coon cat is not overly dependant. It will seek out your companionship but is not likely to be a lap cat.

This breed is affectionate, but not known for being lap cats.

What type of environments can the Maine Coon cat thrive in?

The Maine Coon cat is particularly suited for colder climates. Its thick, water resistant coat and bushy tail are well suited to snowy climates.  Remember, even though this cat is suited to northern temperatures; always have a suitable shelter available.