Maine Coons are known as the “gentle giants” of the cats. Here are some fun facts about one of the world’s largest domesticated felines.
Some Maine Coons have six toes.
Maine Coons sometimes have six toes. Early in the breed’s development, Maine Coons were often what is referred to as polydactyl. This means they were born with an extra appendage on their paw. Some experts estimate that forty percent of the early Maine Coons had this characteristic. This characteristic stemmed from a genetic mutation. This genetic mutation helped the cats use their paws as natural snowshoes during the snowy winters in Maine.
Unfortunately the Cat Fancier’s Association disqualified polydactyls from competing in the Maine Coon purebred class and the trait was eventually deemed as undesirable.
Maine Coons love water.
Maine Coon cats love water. Most cat breeds will do everything in their power to avoid water, Maine Coons will seek out water, so don’t be surprised if they jump in a full bathtub! Maine Coons have a dense coat that repels water.
Maine Coons are the world’s longest domestic cat.
A Maine Coon, known to the the world’s longest domestic cat measured over 47 inches long!
Maine Coons are the Official State Cat of Maine
Maine Coons are native to the state of Maine. The Maine Coon cat was made the official state cat of Maine in the mid 80’s. In 2021, Maine Coons became the second most popular breed in the United States according to the Cat Fancier’s Association registration records. They are very popular in Europe as well as Japan.
Maine Coons were the country’s most coveted breed until Persian cats became popular. At one point Maine Coons were scarce and sources thought the breed to be extinct.
Maine Coons come in many colors.
Maine Coons come in many colors and patterns. This includes cream, mackerel, tortoiseshell, cameo and smoke.
Maine Coons are a large breed.
Female Maine coon cats can tip the scales from 9 to 16 pounds, whereas males can run on average 13 to 18 pounds.
We would love to talk to you about how you can adopt a Maine Coon kitten.