| The Maine coon cat is a fairly large cat that has an | | | | The coat is very distinctive and is very thick and |
| impressive body type. When this cat is around, | | | | silky. The hair on the stomach is longer and the hair |
| people tend to take notice. This cat breed is an old | | | | on the shoulder is shorter. This breed comes in many |
| one, but the history of the breed is filled with tall | | | | colors and patterns, but does not come in a pointed |
| tales and events that probably didn't happen. Some | | | | pattern. These cats have a medium head and a |
| say the breed was the result of crossing a cat with a | | | | square muzzle, with large ears and wide-set eyes. |
| raccoon, but this can be easily disproven using DNA | | | | They make ideal pets because they are friendly and |
| and genetic analysis. There are also rumors of | | | | loyal. They are also playful and enjoy being active. |
| crossbreeding between domestic cats and wild | | | | Unlike many other breeds, the Maine coon cat does |
| bobcats. The true history of the Maine coon is | | | | not have any special needs. They are very durable |
| probably less exciting. These cats originally arrived in | | | | and their coats do not become easily matted, so you |
| the United States on ships. The cats had to adapt to | | | | do not have to spend a lot of time grooming them. |
| miserable winter conditions, resulting in the thick | | | | This breed does have a tendency to develop hip |
| coats that they are known for by cat lovers. | | | | dysplasia and cardiomyopathy. If you notice any |
| The Maine Coon cat ranges from 14 to 20 pounds | | | | problems, it is best to get a vet check for your cat |
| for males and 10 to 14 pounds for females. Unlike | | | | so you can get these health issues taken care of |
| other cats, the this large feline doesn't reach its full | | | | quickly. |
| size until it has gotten to be three or four years old. | | | | |