Maine Coons may have almost gone extinct in the 20th century, but today they are one of the most beloved and distinctive breeds out there.
With their adorably tufted ears, bushy tails and friendly, endearing personalities, they are affectionately referred to as the gentle giants of the cat world.
What makes Maine Coon cats so unusual?
There are many factors that set the Maine Coon apart, from looks to personality. But what most cat lovers first notice is the size of the Maine Coon.
In fact, this is the largest domestic cat breed in the world, with males often reaching an impressive 11kg in weight!
These large cats can reach up to 97cm in length, with their tail alone measuring up to 36cm.
Maine Coons physically mature very slowly, typically reaching their full adult size at around 5-years-old.
History of the Maine Coon
The breed first originated in Maine, in the United States. They were prized for their hunting skills and adaptability to harsh winters, thanks to their dense, water-resistant fur.
Temperament of the Maine Coon
Maine Coons are known for their dog-like loyalty and playful demeanour. Many of these cats enjoy picking up new tricks, with some even playing fetch with their family.
The breed is known to be extremely affectionate, often forming very strong bonds with humans.
Do Maine Coons have health problems?
Maine Coon cats are generally considered to be fairly hardy, but as with any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
Feline asthma
Like other cats, Maine Coons can suffer from feline asthma. This is a chronic condition of the lower respiratory tract, where allergies and irritants cause the airways and lungs to become inflamed.
Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Feline asthma is not curable, but it can be managed with the right medication.
Heart disease
Maine Coons are also prone to a disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is a fairly common condition among different breeds, which prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood to the rest of the body.
Symptoms include shortness of breath and lethargy. The disease cannot be cured, but it can be managed through diet and medication.
Polycystic kidney disease
This is a hereditary disease, which causes small cysts in the kidneys. If left unmanaged, the cysts can grow significantly and cause kidney failure.
Common symptoms include weight loss, frequent urination and an increase in thirst. Regular check-ups and a good quality, well-balanced diet, can go a long way in keeping your Maine Coon feeling their best.
Orthopaedic problems
Orthopaedic problems can be a concern for Maine Coon cats, especially as they grow older. Due to their large size and weight, Maine Coons are more prone to certain musculoskeletal issues compared to smaller breeds.
These can include hip dysplasia and arthritis.
For senior cats, your vet may advise weight control, joint supplements and environmental modifications (such as steps and ramps), to help prevent excessive strain in later years.
How long do Maine Coon cats live?
Prospective owners often wonder whether the Maine Coon's size affects their lifespan. But thankfully, the size of the breed doesn't seem to affect the average life expectancy of these cats in quite the same way it might with giant dog breeds. The average Maine Coon cat can live between 10 and 15 years.
How long do female Maine Coon cats live?
Female Maine Coons typically have a life expectancy of around 10-15 years, but with proper care, some have been known to live longer.
How long do male Maine Coon cats live?
The average life expectancy of male Maine Coons doesn't differ significantly from females. Males typically live for 10-15 years, depending on genetics, diet and overall health.
How to help your Maine Coon live a long and happy life
Small steps can make a big difference when it comes to helping your Maine Coon cat live a long and happy life.
Daily care
Intelligent and active, Maine Coons thrive with plenty of exercise and attention.
Many of these cats pick tricks up quickly. They often enjoy the mental stimulation of new toys and new games. Others enjoy activities like fetch or spending time exploring outdoors.
Quality time with humans is very important to Maine Coons, who will often be found trying to join in with their owner's daily activities. This is not a particularly independent breed. Maine Coons love to be with their people as much as possible.
Grooming needs
The thick, fluffy coat of the Maine Coon can be prone to painful mats and tangles, if not properly maintained.
You'll need to get your kitten used to grooming from a young age, building positive association through training and reward.
Once fully grown, your cat will typically need to be brushed every 2-3 days.
Nutrition
The food your cat eats can have a significant impact on their overall wellbeing and ultimately their lifespan.
A high-quality cat food will have the right balance of protein, fats and nutrients. It's important to avoid overfeeding in order to prevent obesity as your cat ages.
Veterinary check-ups
Vet check-ups are essential for any pet, but with the Maine Coon's predisposition to certain health issues, this is particularly important.
Your breeder should have carried out health screening on your kitten's parents, but this will be up to you to continue once you bring your kitten home with you. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and other health problems can go undetected for quite some time, so you will need to monitor your cat at regular intervals as they age. This will help catch any potential health issues early on, which may in turn extend your pet's lifespan.
How old is the oldest Maine Coon ever?
How long your Maine Coon lives for will depend largely on their genetics, what they eat and their overall health. Many of these cats can comfortably reach around 13 or 14-years-old, while some live significantly longer.
The oldest Maine Coon ever is thought to have been a cat named Creme Puff. She was born in 1967 and died in 2005, making her a remarkable 38-years-old when she passed away.
Rubble was another Maine Coon who lived into his thirties. He lived in Exeter until he died from old age at 31 - the equivalent of 150-years-old in human years!
Maine Coon cats may have an average life expectancy of 10-15 years, but they can live a lot longer under the right circumstances and with the right care. Regular vet check-ups, grooming, exercise and a high quality diet will all help to ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy for as long as possible.
