Maine Coon, a typical American cat. Really developed by breeders since the 1960s, this breed has actually been around for centuries. Nicknamed “the gentle giant”, this large tomcat has been the favorite cat of the French for several years!
Maine coon cat: where does it come from?
The state of Maine in the USA is the northernmost state of the country, on the border with Canada. English and French settlers began to occupy it as early as 1604. The ships that brought the first settlers from America also had this breed of cat on board to limit the population of rats and mice.
So once on land, these pets evolved. But having to face very harsh winters in this region, New England. Only the strongest and most adaptable tomcats survived.
A striking resemblance!
This cat therefore owes its name to its origin (the state of Maine). Also for its resemblance to the raccoon (raccoon in English). A resemblance that was more striking in the days when he had only tiger fur!
In fact, thanks to this natural selection… the Maine coon becomes a large, powerful cat with a thick water-repellent coat and a robust constitution. Its broad paws, well furnished with hair, prevent it from sinking into the snow.
Maine coon cat: The character of this cat!
Nicknamed “the gentle giant”, a name that fits him like a glove. Because it is an impressive cat (it is the largest cat of the feline species). On the other hand, the Maine coon has a gentle but confident character.
Very sociable, this cat gets along well with everyone in the house (congeners, dogs or other animals). Ausis, very attached to its people unlike other cats, this pet does not take love to one person, but loves the whole family. Without limitation! However, the Maine Coon tends to dictate its own will. It is therefore necessary to teach him good manners very early on, while he is still just a kitten.
How to take good care of a Maine coon?
A lover of large spaces, the Maine Coon does not like small apartments. Unless you got him used to it from an early age. In this case, this cat absolutely needs, for its well-being, to be able to exert itself. It is therefore better to get a beautiful cat tree!
Also with regard to his beautiful medium length hair, the latter requires one to two good brushings per week. This is to get rid of dead hair, loosen knots and ventilate the undercoat.
In fact, when this cat began to be developed by breeders with a selection program in the United States…he experienced quite a lot of inbreeding. This results in some health problems. This breed may therefore suffer from feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It is heart failure detected by genetic testing. Also hemolytic anemia (reduced number of red blood cells) and hip dysplasia. Serious breeders will be able to provide evidence justifying the good health of the kitten’s parents and grandparents.