About Maine Coons
Per the Cat Fanciers Association website, the following information gives a brief history and overview of the breed.
History
Myths, legend and lore surround the Maine Coon Cat. Some are amusing, some are fantastic flights of fantasy and some are merely plausible. They certainly provide good material for conversation. Many books and articles dealing with these aspects of the Maine Coon Cat are available and have been well received as people never seem to tire of the subject and are always eager to learn more about this National Treasure.
The Maine Coon Cat is the native American long-haired cat and was first recognized as a specific breed in Maine where it was named the official cat of the state. These cats were held in high regard by the locals for their mousing talents and special competitions were even held to reward the best “Coon Cat.”
The Breed
The Maine Coon cat evolved through nature’s own breeding program developing characteristics by following a “survival of the fittest” evolution. The characteristics all have a purpose or function. Maine Coon cats developed into sturdy, working cats suited to the harsh winters and varied seasons of the Northeast region. The Maine Coon Cat of today is known for a sturdy, rugged appearance, which includes an uneven, shaggy coat of three distinct lengths and a long, well furnished tail. They carry that tail proudly and use it to surround themselves for warmth and protection. A Maine Coon Cat has large, well tufted paws to allow ability to walk on top of snow despite size and weight. Ears are large and well tufted for protection and warmth. Even more than for beauty, Maine Coon Cats are noted for intelligence and kindly disposition. After all, what they couldn’t obtain themselves, they could always get by charming a nearby human. Though their size can be intimidating, they are known for their friendliness towards just about anything and are especially good with children and other pets. For these reasons, they have been dubbed the “Gentle Giant” of the cat fancy and are commonly sought after as family pets, companions, and therapy cats.
Maine Coon Cats are intelligent, trainable, described as “dog like”. They will offer you hours of enjoyment with their antics but can at times be intrusive. Without question they want to be part of everything and your privacy may require a closed door between you and your cat. Most Maine Coon Cats have a fondness of water, to be in it, watch it, wash their food in it, or just plain play in it, so don’t be surprised if you have an uninvited guest in your shower or help washing the dishes on any given day.
The Maine Coon Cat has a silky and somewhat oily coat, it is not dense and its upkeep is much easier than that of other long haired breeds. The coat is almost self-maintained but will require occasional grooming. Because they love attention of any kind, grooming is easily accomplished.
Available in a variety of about 75 different color combinations (with the exception of pointed pattern and colors) and two acceptable tabby patterns (classic and mackerel), there is a Maine Coon Cat just right for anyone. Although it is impossible to predict longevity, with proper care and nutrition, your Maine Coon Cat should give you many years of love, enjoyment, and companionship.
Your new Maine Coon Cat addition should be kept indoors, spayed/neutered (if purchased as a pet) and be provided proper nutrition and acceptable surfaces for expression of natural behavior, for example, clean litter pans and scratching surfaces (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery and most breeders will have related stipulations as part of their contract).
Other Information (Not CFA affiliated)
Claw Trimming
Once you get your kitten home, routinely massage and rub their feet when you are petting it. This gets them used to having their feet handled on a regular basis and makes trimming their claws much easier. Just clip a small amount of the tip off of each claw.
Indoors or Outdoors?
It is best to keep this breed inside as all kittens are sold as "inside pets". Letting them outside exposes them to pests (fleas, ticks, lice, ear mites, etc.). It also exposes them to unvaccinated cats and dogs which could transmit unwanted diseases. Your cat should only go outside supervised on a harness and leash, and should be up to date on vaccinations and flea and heart worm treatments. Your cat will be happy, healthy, and safe indoors as long as you provide it will a variety of stimulation.
Toys/ Cat Trees/ Cat Scratchers
Providing a variety of stimulation is essential to your cat's health and allows them to express their natural behaviors. Sites, such as Pinterest, offer DIY toys you can make at home easily to cut cost that still provide your kitten/cat hours of fun.
Cat scratchers (scent soakers as stated by Jackson Galaxy) placed strategically around the home help the cat feel ownership of the various spaces within your home. The scratchers are scent soakers that allow the cat to put their scent on the item when using it to file their claws. This also helps to focus their scratching behavior on that item instead of your furniture.
Cat Trees are also highly recommended as it allows the cat a higher vantage point in your home. Cats naturally like to be off the ground to get away from danger and a cat tree can give them that sense of safety. The cat tree is also a scent soaker and something they can claim as their own. A tree with multiple levels that can be placed by a closed window can make all the difference for your fur baby.
Last little tidbit
It is important to try to find a veterinarian that is familiar with Maine Coon Cats.
It is important for your vet to know that during the first year when kitten teeth are being replaced by adult teeth, they may have red gums throughout this time. It is perfectly normal until all teething is completed. Vets may diagnose older kittens as having severe gingivitis and may recommend pulling their teeth. Ask the vet if you can monitor this area into adulthood. If the cat has red inflamed gum issues in adulthood, then discuss options with your veterinarian.
