Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is the gentle giant of the cat world — one of the largest domestic breeds, with tufted ears, a ruff around the neck and a magnificent bushy tail. Despite their imposing size, they are playful, gentle and sociable. Often described as "the dog of the cat world".
About
The Maine Coon is the gentle giant of the cat world — one of the largest domestic breeds, with tufted ears, a ruff around the neck and a magnificent bushy tail. Despite their imposing size, they are playful, gentle and sociable. Often described as "the dog of the cat world".
History
Native to the state of Maine, America's first show cat was a Maine Coon named Cosey, who won Best in Show at the 1895 Madison Square Garden cat show. After declining in popularity mid-century, the breed experienced a renaissance and is now consistently one of the top three most popular breeds globally.
Care & Health
HCM screening of breeding cats is essential. Hip dysplasia can affect large males — provide stairs or ramps to elevated surfaces. The thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent hairballs and matting. Maine Coons are slow to mature, reaching full size at 3–5 years.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- United States
- Life Span
- 12–15 years
- Size
- large
- Hair Shed
- heavy
- Grooming
- 2–3 times a week
- Good with Kids
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $15–$25 p/w
- Colours
- Almost all colours and patterns including tabby, tortoiseshell and solid. White is common.
Health Considerations
Grooming
Semi-long coat requires brushing 2–3 times a week to prevent matting.
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, powerful and striking breed built to survive Scandinavian winters. Their thick, waterproof double coat, tufted paws and lynx-like ear tips give them a wild, majestic appearance. Despite their independent nature, they are gentle and enjoy human company on their own terms.
Ragdoll
Named for their tendency to go limp with relaxation when held, the Ragdoll is one of the largest and most docile domestic cat breeds. Affectionate, gentle and almost dog-like in their devotion, Ragdolls follow their owners through the house, greet them at the door and are content to be carried around.