by Pat Rapacchiano

Created on: July 07, 2008   Last Updated: July 09, 2008

I am not an expert on Cats, however I have gained a great deal of knowledge over the years concerning two specific breeds. In general a specialty bred Cat is known to have more health problems than a regular domestic Cat. After owning a Persian and Maine Coon Cat for a number of years I hope my information is helpful to those pet owners or those who are considering purchasing a "Special Breed".

Prior to purchasing a Persian in 1994, I knew very little about Cats at all. I am fortunate that my Cat is now 14 years old and is in very good health. I found that Persians are prone to having severe respiratory problems and are likely to develop kidney disease. It is critical to do your homework before purchasing any Special Breed. The Cat Fanciers Association, may be able to provide some additional information if you are are interested. The Cat Fanciers web address is www.cfainc.org.

I purchased an off white almost cream colored Persian kitten in 1994. I got a great deal, I only paid a little over $300.00. Even by todays standards $300 for a Persian is cheap. She made a geat pet and she is "Beautiful" has the prettiest Blue eyes I have ever seen. Normally Persians have flat faces almost "Smooshed", this is the reason for their breathing problems. My Persian doesn't have a flat face at all, she is very fluffy, but has a regular Cat face. Spends most of the day sleeping and probably dreaming.

In 2000, we felt the need to purchase another Cat. We had seen the cutest Maine Coon kitten in Pet Smart one Sunday. This time we only had to make a donation of $45.00 to the animal shelter and she was on her way home.

Maine Coon's have a very timid but friendly personality, it took a while for our Persian to get used to the new intruder, today they are the best of pals. Maine Coon Cats can grow to be very large, but make excellent pets. The term "Curiosity Killed The Cat" certainly pertains to the Maine Coon. The only noticable difference between the two breeds is that the "Coon" eats a great deal more than the Persian.

I feel it best to keep Cats strictly indoors. Keeping a Cat indoors prolongs their life and they make much better pets.

Persian and Maine Coon Cats love children and seem to be very intelligent. I must admit they do have the run of the house, but so what they have brought much happiness to our lives and the lives of our children.

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