Where Are Maine Coons From?

Maine Coon cats are known for being absolutely beautiful creatures. They grow to be around 15 to 20 pounds and they’re incredibly friendly. Their long fur makes them appear to be creatures of the forest. It also makes them a highly popular cat breed that many people want to adopt. But where are they actually from, and what do you need to know before adopting one of these adorable cats?

Maine Coons Originate From …

There is a lot of speculation about where Maine Coon cats come from, and pinning down their heritage is quite difficult. Many believe that these cats were brought over from France by Marie Antoinette’s ship when she fled during the Revolution. She brought over six Angora cats which then bred with local domestic short-hair cats in Maine to create Maine Coon cats. 

However, this is only one story. Another credits Captain Charles Coon who traveled alongside his long-haired cats. When he landed in New England, they bread with local cats. 

No matter what theory you read, most people believe that Maine Coon cats originate from the state of Maine because of breeding with other cats that landed thereby some mode of travel. Maine Coons have been attributed to Maine for years, as that’s where their name comes from. 

What Are Maine Coons Like?

Maine Coons are known for being great cats that love exploration and their owners. Maine Coons are incredibly loveable and they don’t leave their owner’s sides. They also are known for being great family pets and will get along with children and other animals you have at home. 

They’re incredibly playful and silly cats that will make an excellent addition to any family. If you’re looking for a fun and excitable cat that loves to explore and relax equally, a Maine Coon is definitely the right cat for you. 

Do Maine Coons Require Specialized Care? 

Maine Coons do require some specialized care, but not a lot. For the most part, they can be cared for just like normal cats. However, they do require a lot of grooming. Because their hair is so long, you’ll need to brush your cat frequently to avoid matted hair. If their hair mats too much, it will have to be shaved off. 

Grooming is also a great way to help prevent hairballs, which Coons are highly susceptible to. It will also help to keep their fur nice and shiny. 

If your Maine Coon is an outdoor cat or likes to explore the outdoors on a leash (which most do), you should make sure that they have some sort of flea prevention administered monthly. They also require the same annual vaccinations as all other domestic cats. 

What Do I Need to Know Before Adopting a Maine Coon

Before you adopt a Maine Coon, there isn’t much you need to know. Make sure to take great care when grooming them and ensure that they’re always up to date on flea medication and vaccinations. 

Like most pure-bred cats, they are predisposed to some specific illnesses and diseases, like: 

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 
• Hip dysplasia 
• Spinal muscular atrophy 

These are the only diseases that you should be on the lookout for with your Maine Coon cat. Other than that, you should know that they require more attention and love than most cats, as they’re very social. 

You should also be aware of the cost associated with owning a pure-bred Maine Coon, or any pure-bred cat for that matter. They can cost well over 1,000 dollars when purchased from a reputable source. 

If that’s too expensive, long-haired domestic cats have very similar personalities, as they’re likely part Maine Coon or another similar long-haired cat. Either way, be prepared to love and cherish your Maine Coon for their entire life.