Maine Coon

Average Height

25 - 41cm

Average Weight

4 - 9kg

Expected Lifespan

12 -15 years

The Maine Coon is impossible to miss. With their impressive size, flowing coats, tufted ears, and bushy tails, these majestic cats look every bit as grand as their reputation suggests. Often referred to as the “gentle giants” of the cat world, Maine Coons combine striking looks with a loving, easy-going nature that makes them a favourite in family homes. Despite their powerful appearance, these cats are known for their kindness, patience, and affectionate personalities.

Originating in the United States, the Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural cat breeds in North America. Built to survive harsh winters, their thick, water-resistant fur and large, sturdy bodies made them exceptional working cats, prized for keeping farms and ships free of rodents. Over time, their intelligence and friendly disposition helped them transition seamlessly from skilled hunters to beloved household companions.

Maine Coons are social cats that enjoy being around their people, but they are not overly demanding. They are happiest when included in daily life, often choosing to sit nearby rather than directly on your lap. Their gentle and adaptable nature makes them excellent companions for children, as well as for other cats and cat-friendly dogs. They are confident without being pushy, and affectionate without being clingy.

Playful well into adulthood, Maine Coons are curious and intelligent cats that enjoy interactive toys, climbing spaces, and games that challenge both mind and body. They are known for their soft, chirping vocalisations rather than loud meows, often using them to communicate with their families. While they enjoy activity, they are equally content relaxing in a sunny spot or stretching out comfortably near their favourite humans.

Bringing a Maine Coon into your home means welcoming a calm, loyal, and loving companion with a majestic presence and a gentle soul. They offer the perfect balance of beauty, intelligence, and affection, making them an ideal choice for families looking for a cat that truly feels like part of the home.

The Maine Coon Anatomy

Head

Medium to large, with a slightly longer-than-wide modified wedge shape. Cheekbones are high and prominent. Muzzle is square with a strong chin, creating a distinctive profile. Nose shows a gentle concave curve. Eyes are large, expressive, and set slightly oblique; eye colour can vary and does not necessarily correlate with coat colour (except in pointed patterns). Ears are large, wide at the base, and set high, often with lynx-like tufts at the tips.

Body

Large, rectangular, and muscular with substantial bone structure. Chest is broad and deep. Neck is medium to long and strong. The body is long with a level topline and powerful hindquarters. Legs are medium in length, sturdy, and well-muscled. Paws are large, round, and tufted, acting as natural “snowshoes” in cold climates. Tail is long, wide at the base, and tapering slightly toward the tip. The tail is heavily furred and typically reaches at least to the shoulder when laid along the body. Coat is long, dense, and water-resistant with a shaggy appearance. Shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach, flanks, and tail. A prominent ruff may develop around the neck. Coat texture is silky rather than woolly.

The Maine Coon Coat and Colours

  • Black
  • White
  • Blue
  • Red
  • Cream
  • Black & White
  • Blue & White
  • Red & White
  • Cream & White
  • Black, Red & White
  • Blue, Cream & White
  • Brown (Black) Tabby
  • Blue Tabby
  • Red Tabby
  • Cream Tabby

(Patterns may be classic, mackerel, or spotted)

  • Black Smoke
  • Blue Smoke
  • Red Smoke
  • Cream Smoke
  • Black Shaded
  • Blue Shaded
  • Silver Shaded
  • Black Tortoiseshell
  • Blue Tortoiseshell

Some Maine Coon Traits

Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Grooming Needs
Shedding
Sensitivity

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