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.
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