Maine Coon

One of the oldest natural breeds in North America, regarded as a native of the state of Maine (in fact, the Maine Coon is the official Maine State Cat) A number of attractive legends surround its origin. A wide spread (though biologically impossible) belief is that it originated from matings between semi -wild, domestic cats and raccoons. This myth, bolstered by the bushy tail and the most common colouring (a raccoon like brown tabby) led to the adoption of the name "Maine Coon." (originally only brown tabbies were as "Maine Shags.") Another popular theory is that the Maine sprang from the six pet cats which Marie Antoinette sent to Wiscasset, Maine when she was planning to escape from France during the French Revolution. Most breeders today believe that the breed originated in matings between pre-existing shorthaired domestic cats and overseas longhairs (perhaps Angora types introduced by New England seamen, or longhairs brought to America by Vikings).

Maine Coons were well established more than a century ago as a hardy, handsome breed of domestic cat, well equipped to survive the hostile New England winters. Nature is not soft-hearted. It selects the biggest, the brightest, the best fighters, the best hunters to breed successive generations. Planned breeding of Maine Coons are relatively recent. Since early breeding began Maine Coon breeders have sought to preserve the Maine Coon's "natural," rugged qualities. The ideal Maine Coon is a strong healthy cat.

Maine Coon Appearance

Maine Coons are a very large cat and it is not unusual for a male to weigh more than 9 kilos. The females weigh in at a little less. The Maine Coon has a long shaggy coat which is silky to feel. The Maine Coons coat is is water resistant and they are very easily groomed. Maine Coons have tufted ears and an extra long flowing tail.