Cat Breeds

Maine Coon Cat

Are you looking to get a new cat soon? Great! You may want to consider a

purebred cat. There are many breeds that can be found in this country, each with its own

characteristic appearance and temperament and history. Think carefully about what you

would characteristics you would like to see in your new companion. Perhaps you would

care to consider:

Maine Coon Cat

The ancestry of these big, hearty cats from New England is unknown. Most likely

they came across from Europe with the early settlers as working cats on the ships. Some

of these long haired ship cats apparently decided to disembark in the new world and

made their home there along with the new colonists. Winter in New England can be

extremely tough. Only the strongest survived those early winters, human or cat. Once

they settled in to their new homes, these long haired cats began to thrive. The Shaggies,

as they were called then, became a familiar part of colonial life throughout New England.

The Maine Coon Cat is a big, strong, intelligent cat. They are also very loving and

devoted family members and remain very playful into old age. Maine Coon Cats do not

seem to make snap decisions about people. They remain somewhat reserved when they

first meet new people or move into a new home. Once they have made their decision,

they become affectionate and devoted companions. Maine Coon Cats also have an

unusual fascination with water. They are known to dabble in their water dishes or play in

showers before the water has all run out. Once in a while, a cat will actually go

swimming.

Maine Coon Cats are gentle giants in the cat world. Males can top out at 20lbs

while females can reach 12 lbs. The size difference between the sexes is unusually large.

The females are no pushovers despite their lack of size. They feel they are every bit as

strong as the males and aren't afraid to prove it. These ladies can be quite feisty. Maine

Coon Cats have broad chests with well muscled bodies and medium length legs. This

breed does not reach full maturity until they are four years old. This cat has an easy going

and affectionate temperament. The smallest part of this cat is its voice. Maine Coon Cats

speak with a high squeaky voice that seems entirely incongruous coming from such a

massive cat. These cats chirp, cheep, chortle, and trill as well as meow. It's quite an eye

opener to hear a Maine Coon Cat speak.

These cats have thick semi long coats which are all-weather and water resistant

as well. Fortunately, the Main Coon Cats coat does not tangle easily. The texture is

surprisingly silky. The most common coat color pattern is tabby though they can come in

a wide variety of colors and patterns.

The Main Coon Cat is a breed whose cheerful ways continue to charm people

every day. Give the Main Coon Cat a closer look. The breed is hardy and affectionate.

This cats' laid back temperament would make an outstanding family pet. This cat may be

exactly what you are looking for in a new companion.