This beautiful, large cat is an old breed originating in America. It’s thought they were brought to the American shores by sailors and bred with the local native cats, resulting in the Maine Coon breed we have today. Their semi-long hair helps them stay warm in the cold winter temperatures of Maine. They were originally kept on farms for their hunting ability – especially their rodent catching skills.
The Maine Coon is a big cat with a muscular body and strong legs. In profile, they have a distinctive concave curve to their nasal bridge. Their distinguished look is due to the square muzzles, firm chins and high set ears that taper to pointed tips. The long, wide, bushy tail is another distinctive feature.
Maine Coon’s make great household pets. They’re inquisitive and like to know what’s going on – learning quickly. They’re intelligent and independent and will form a strong bond with their owners. They’re affectionate and playful right through to old age and they like company, both human and animal.
Maine Coon is generally a healthy breed. There are two hereditary issues that can affect them – feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia. Your veterinarian will be able to help you if your cat suffers from either of these conditions.
Regular grooming is advisable to make sure their coats are kept in tip-top condition. Good quality food will also keep coats shiny. You should occasionally check your Maine Coon’s ears for signs of wax build-up as this can lead to ear infections. Ask our staff at Karingal Veterinary Hospital to show you how.
| Size | large |
| Weight | 3 – 5 kgs |
| Coat | Semi-long, glossy coat |
| Colour | White, black, blue, red, cream, brown, tortoiseshell, golden, silver, blue cream |
| Lifespan | 9 – 15 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate and gentle |