It is a breed nicknamed the “gentle giant” or “cat-dog”.

This is because both their physical and behavioral characteristics resemble those of dogs.

Get to know the Maine Coon better: from the myth behind its appearance to its regular care.

Provenance

Despite being biologically impossible, legend has it that the Maine Coon arose from a cross between a cat and a raccoon.

This idea arises from the fact that this breed has similarities with the raccoon, as they have a very similar hairy tail.

In fact, its name comes from the combination of the region where the breed was recognized – in the North American state of Maine – and the fact that it has similarities with the raccoon – Raccoon in English.

Here, in the state of Maine, these cats have become very popular for their ability to hunt mice and also because they tolerate cold and low temperatures well.

The Maine Coon breed was then recognized in the 1950s.

Having a size very similar to that of a dog, this cat also proved to be a great option to be a companion cat.

Features

Size:

They are extremely large cats, measuring between 25 and 41 cm.

As they have an extremely large tail, counting on it, the Main Coon can even reach 1 meter in length.

As a result, they are also heavy, weighing from 4 kg to 11 kg.

Coat:

It is a cat with very long fur. its coat being smooth and generally soft.

In fact, this is one of the most striking features of Maine Coons: their great density of fur.

The most common coat color is brown, but Maine Coons can also be grey, white or even tricolored.

White cats are the most adored by lovers of this breed.

Average life expectancy:

Maine Coons have an average life expectancy of between 9 and 15 years.

Behavior

Main Coons are good family cats. They are calm and sociable, doing well in a large family with children, other cats or even dogs.

They have a great learning ability and are easily trained, learning tricks quickly.

Unlike most other cats, Maine Coons usually love water and even snow.

So, at bath time, we won't have big problems!

We can even play games with them in the water, they will have a lot of fun.

The Maine Coon cat is also known for its famous meow, where it sounds like it is talking to its owners.

Being an active, independent cat who likes to play, a house with outdoor space is the ideal home for these little friends of ours.

Even so, it is a cat that adapts well to a closed space, such as an apartment, as long as we provide it with moments of activity and entertainment.

Health

Generally speaking, Main Coons are healthy cats.

But there are some diseases that are more common in this breed that we should pay special attention to.

The regular care that we must have is mainly related to the characteristics of the breed.

Overweight:

This is a large cat, so care with weight gain should always be a part of our Maine Coon's life.

Giving the recommended dose is important and choosing a food that helps maintain weight as well. Especially if we have a spayed cat.

Dysplasia:

This breed can suffer from hip dysplasia, so it is important that we pay attention to its joints and also to the weight of our cat.

Heart problems:

Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common disease in Maine Coon cats and is believed to be inherited.

It is important to check with our vet, check if our cat has this condition and the best way to help our little friend.

Muscle Problems:

Spinal muscular atrophy is another hereditary disease that we should be aware of if we own a Maine Coon.

If our cat has this problem, we usually start to see symptoms at 4 months of age, which result in muscle atrophy and weakness. In this case, the average life expectancy of our little friend decreases considerably.

Other care that we must have with our bigeyes:

• With a dense and long coat, it is essential that we take constant care of the Maine Coon's coat. Having this routine will keep our cat's fur clean and without knots.
• Having a very furry cat like the Maine Coon, we must prevent the problems they may have with hairballs.
• If our cat spends much of the day closed, it is important that we give him toys and scratching posts with which our little friend can entertain himself.