Answers...To Almost All of Your Questions
What is a Maine Coon and How Big Will They Get ?
Maine Coons originated in the state of Maine many centuries ago. It is believed they were brought to our country on ships that explored the new world (think Vikings, Christopher Columbus, etc.). Hence, the “Maine” part. Now, the “Coons” part did not come from cats breeding raccoons, despite the rumors. Maine Coons are similar to raccoons in a few ways, Maine Coons love water and like to play in it, they are very good with their paws, i.e. grabbing food and eating from their paws, and some classic colored Maine Coons have a “V” marking on the outside of each eye, similar to the bandit mask a raccoon has.
Throughout history, the breed has evolved to tolerate the cold…it was and is still cold in Maine! They have extra fur tufts of hair between their toes and on the tips of their ears. We call this lynx tips or brushes on their ears. Their coat is very thick as well as their tails. Their coat and tail reaches full thickness around 2 years of age.
As you’ve figured out, Maine Coon Cats are one of the largest domestic breeds of cats. Hence, their nickname “Gentle Giants”. They grow extremely fast, but mature slowly. A male Maine Coon kitten can double in size (not weight) from 1-8 months. But wait….they aren’t done growing! Maine Coons grow until they are 4-5 years old. Males average 15-25 lbs depending on the size of their bone structure (or skeleton size, we call it). Females, of course, are smaller and average 12-17 lbs. We, at Salty Coons Cattery cannot guarantee the size your Maine Coon kitten will be, but our parents are large, which is a good indicator of the offspring’s adult size.
What is a Maine Coon’s Personality Like?
If you don’t want a cat that will be in your business, in your lap, and wanting to eat your sandwich, then maybe a Maine Coon isn’t for you. Maine Coons are very interactive with people, dogs, and other cats. Make time to spend time with your Maine Coon kitten everyday, and as they grow, they will be your best friend. If Maine Coons could bark, they would, because they are very similar to dogs. They are intelligent and most of them will fetch naturally, without training. They love to “talk” too. Even as young as 5 weeks, Maine Coon kittens begin to chirp or twill. This habit continues into adulthood, and believe me, you will find yourself carrying on a conversation with your cat frequently!