by Laurie Childree

Created on: August 26, 2008   Last Updated: April 09, 2009

The Maine Coon cat breed is the official cat for the state of Maine. It is considered a native of the state and one of the oldest naturally occurring breeds in North America. There are several legends that surround the origin of the Maine Coon breed including that it is from the mating of semi-wild domestic cats and raccoons. This myth is given strength by the bushy tail and brown tabby coloration of the tail much like that of a raccoon. At first only brown tabbies were known as Maine Coon Cats and other were called Maine Shags.

Today the majority of breeder tend to believe that the Maine Coon breed came from the mating of pre-existing shorthaired domestic cats and overseas longhairs; possibly Angora types that were introduced by New England seamen or longhairs that the Vikings brought to America. In 1861 the Maine Coon breed was first recorded in cat literature with the mention of a black and white cat by the name of Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines. In early cat shows held in Boston and New York they were a popular breed. In 1895 a female brown tabby by the name of Cosie won Best Cat at the Madison Square Garden Show. The popularity of the Maine Coon breed lessened when the Persians hit the scene in 1900. Still a favorite in New England they did not even start to regain the popularity they once had until the 1950's.

The Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association (MCBFA) formed by six breeders in 1968 in order to preserve the breed and help to protect it. Current members of the MCBFA are at over one thousand fanciers and two hundred breeders. All registries had begun to recognize the Maine Coon by the year 1980.

The characteristics of the Maine Coon breed point to its adaptation to a harsh climate. The glossy coat is heavy and water resistant, its stomach and britches protect it against wetness and snow. The shorter fur on its back and next help to keep it from tangling; the coat is smooth and nearly free from the need for maintenance. Its grooming usually requires a weekly combing to keep it looking its best. The tail of the Maine Coon breed is long and bushy and they use it to protect themselves from the cold by wrapping it around them. The ears are heavily furred both inside and out to protect from cold and have a large range of movement. The feet are big, round and tufted; they are the Maine Coon breeds built in snow shoes. They have a great sense of sight and hearing thanks to large ears and eyes.

Maine Coon cats weigh from thirteen to eighteen pounds for the males and nine to twelve pounds for females. Slow to develop they are three to five years old before they get to their full size; the disposition of this breed remains like that of a kitten for their entire lives.

People oriented but not overly dependant they do not pester for attention but they do like to be with their owners. They are curious and like to help. They are a relaxed breed and will even play fetch.

Sources:
http://www.fanciers.com/breed-faqs/mai ne-coon-faq.html

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