‘Only Cat lovers know the luxury of fur coated, musical hot water bottles that never go cold.’ –
The Maine Cone is a native American breed, so named because it was first recognised as a breed in the state of Maine.
The most likely beginnings of the breed was when the New England settler’s domestic shorthair cats mated with Angora types that came across the Atlantic with seafarers. From there the cat had to adapt due to the New England harsh climate – with only the strongest surviving and creating what the Maine Coon is today. They are a typical farmers cat; being an excellent vermin killer, hardy, strong and diligent.
They are an incredibly popular breed as they are donned the ‘gentle giants’ of the cat world and some even compare them to dogs in friendliness and temperament. (Ironically in a recent O2 advert using the campaign ‘Be more dog’ they actually used a Maine Coon!) They make great family pets and are even known to play fetch!
The Maine Cone was thought extinct in the 1950’s – actually being declared extinct in 1959 - after other long haired breeds, particularly the Persian had over taken in popularity.
It is the largest domestic cat and takes 3-4 years to finish growing.
Most Maine Coon’s enjoy water and can be very efficient swimmers.
The ‘Coon’ part of the cat’s name could have either come from the myth that the breed must have evolved from matings between domestic cats and racoons (due to its markings and size), or because they descended from seafaring cats owned by Captain Charles Coon. The result meant they were called ‘Coon Cats.’
The first cat show in America (in 1895) was won by a Tabby Maine Coon named Cosey.
Maine cones don’t typically meow. Rather they make chirp and trill noises. The trill (sounds between a meow and a purr) is often to show contentment or happiness and the chirp is often when it spots prey or during hunting.
Top Tips and Recommendations:
Food: the Maine Coon, being the largest domestic cat, needs a good food to support it. Orijen Cat and
Kitten food* is an excellent suggestion for the breed.
Exercise: Unlike most cats, Maine Coons are known to be more dog like, if you are inclined to play fetch with your cat then try Chuck it Fetch Balls.* They are also known to be trainable on a lead, and you can get cat harnesses* which are specifically for this function. Particularly if your Maine Coon is an indoor cat.
*All our products can be found in store