The Maine Coon Cat is America's first true show cat, according to the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA).  Weighing in at between 12 and 15 lbs.; some males reach 20 lbs. or more, without an ounce of fat.  Everyone agrees that the Maine Coon is the "Gentle Giant" of the domestic cat kingdom.

The Maine Coon has an interesting history.  Some fanciers believe that the breed originated when bobcats and lynx interbred with domestic cats brought over on ships from Europe.  Some believe that the breed got its tabby rings from the raccoon.  One theory supposes that the Maine Coon Cat is descended from cats belonging to Marie Antoinette!  It is more likely that the breed developed naturally from matings between short and longhaired domestic cats.  The Maine Coon Cat is sociable, very vocal (chirps), and - depending on the breed of dog you have - may be bigger than your canine!

POPULARITY:  According to CFA registration statistics, 4,385 Maine Coon Cats were registered in 2003.  This makes then 2nd in popularity for registered cats.

FIRST RECOGNIZED AS A BREED:  The breed is listed as far back as 1878 in a Boston cat show program.  The Maine Coon is known as America's only true domestic cat.

APPEARANCE:  The Maine Coon is a tabby patterned longhaired cat.  Its most distinguishing features are its neck ruff, and the tufts of hair on the ears, which makes it resemble some common wild cats.  Its hair is long on the abdomen and back of the legs.  The CFA recognizes five color classes in the Maine Coon: solid, tabby, tabby with white, tabby with parti-color, and tabby with other colors.

PREFERENCES:  Affection, love, and a lot of social interaction.

BIGGEST CHALLENGE TO OWNER:  The Maine Coon takes longer to fully mature than other breeds.  You may essentially, have a big kitten on your hands for three or four years!

[Home]  [About Us]  [Cattery]  [The Boys]  [The Girls]  [Kittens]  [Retirees] [Gallery]  [Kitten Application]  [Contract]  [Declawing Article]  [History] [Rock Meadows Maine Coon Rescue]  [Links]  [Contact Us]