Table of Contents
Quick Facts
Name | Maine Coon |
Origin | United States |
Size | 9 to 18 pounds or more 19 to 30 inches |
Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
Coat | Solid, tabby, bi color, parti color |
Temperament | Amiable, gentle |
Exercise Needs | Moderate |
Training Difficulty | Easy |
Health Issues | Generally Healthy |
Grooming Needs | Moderate |
Price | $1000 to $2000 |
Introduction: Maine Coon
In the word of thousands of cat breeds, the Maine Coon outstands others because of their unwavering dog like personality. They are very friendly and highly intelligent. They are renowned for their appealing and majestic appearance which has captured the heart of many peoples and families around the globe. Here in this article we will unveil the enigmatic world of the Maine Coon.
History and Origin
The exact date of origin of the Maine Coon cat is still a misery as of now but the place it originated is believed to have been in the Northeastern part of USA. It is believed that they are the descendants of local cats brought by the European sailors. These cats were known widely in England but specially popular in the state of Maine. They were used as house cats to reduce the growing population of mouse and rats.
Physical Appearance
Maine Coon are very solid and strong cat having a well proportioned and balanced body despite of their massive large size. They have a muscular build with long and rectangular body with a wide chest. They are known for their large body size, tufted ears and brushy rails. They have a very thick dense coat with water resistance fur. Despite of their large size and build they are very adorable and charming cats.
Temperament and Personality
Maine Coon is very popular all over the globe due to its dog like personality traits. They are very gentle, amiable and friendly cats. They are good with other children and other pets as well if socialized at an early age. They can peacefully live with friendly dogs as well and create a strong bond between other pets and owners. They are very intelligent as well which makes them a trainable breed and are good in learning tricks. They love to play with water and also love to get involved in family activities.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Maine Coon is quite an active cat so it requires moderate amount of daily activities physically and mentally due to its massive size. Daily walks, playing with it, giving toys, solving puzzles etc. 30-60 mins a day can keep them mentally and physically active and healthy. Giving them frequent attention and lap cuddling them can even benefit them more.
Grooming and Care
Grooming a Maine Coon is quite easy and they require moderate amount of grooming. Having a low to medium shedding coat they often require regular brushing to maintain their coat’s health. Regularly cleaning their ears, brushing teeth etc. is required to avoid any allergies. Bathing once every few months can keep their coat clean.
Health and Common Concerns
Maine Coon are generally healthy cats but they can inherit some diseases genetically. Diseases such as heart disease, hip dysplasia, spinal muscular atrophy are some of those which can effect them very much as much as to costing their life. So proper health care is required to ensure their safety and minimize the risk of any diseases.
Some helpful tips:
- Taking your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups at least once every 14 weeks is recommended.
- Feed them nutritious and protein condense foods like fish, milk, authentic cat foods etc.
- Never neglect the hydration of your cat.
- Giving them necessary vaccines to fight various bacteria and allergies is necessary.
- Socializing and interacting with them by playing is an important activity for their mental health as well as physical health.
- Proper sanitation and clean environment is a must for minimal risk of bacterial diseases.
- If any sudden sickness you should immediately seek help from respective professionals.
Training and Socialization
Maine Coon is an intelligent breed and are quite good at learning tricks which makes them a trainable cats. They are very quick leaners and can be trained well through positive and proper reinforcements. They are very kind and friendly with children and other pets even with the likes of dogs as well. They are very social so socializing them at an early age is recommended.
Some helpful tips for training and socialization:
- Teach your cat to sit, stay, heel, walk on stairs, jump etc. which is essential for its safety.
- Teaching your cat what to eat, what not to eat and where to excrete, where not to is essential for cleanliness as well as cat’s safety.
- Teaching the cat to recognize family and strangers is an important activity which can be done by playing with it.
Conclusion
In the demanding world of friendly and gentle pet, Maine Coon definitely ticks all the requirements a pet owner demands for. Due to its unwavering personality and intelligence it can be good choice for any family or individuals and can be good choice also for first time pet owners. They are good with other pets so they can be good companion for your existing pets as well. Bringing them home will definitely ensure you to bring a lot of happiness and joy into your life.
Image Source: Getty Images
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