Maine Coon

The Maine Coon cat originated from the northern United States, living as a wild animal. There are several myths about this large cat - it is one of the largest breeds of domestic cat in the world today. There is one great story that says this cat is a cross between a cat and a racoon. Of course that is biologically impossible. More likely is that it gots its name from the State of Maine (where it came from) and from having a big racoon-like tail - hence the name Maine Coon was born. Another story tells how they are the result of the import of longhaired French cats, belonging to Marie Antoinette, of France, and delivered to the United States while she was planning to escape the revolution. But regardless of how they evolved into the animal that they are today, the Maine Coon is now considered by the American people to be one of 'their own'. This cat has a delightful temperament mixed in with a clown-like personality, and if the proverb 'curiosity killed the cat' holds any sway it certainly applies to this creature as it is 'into everything'. It is an extremely intelligent animal that just adores people and so makes it especially good for companionship - and companionship that will last for life. A Maine Coon has a broad chest with a muscular body. A female typically weighs up to 6kg and males weigh up to 8kg, but some males have been known to reach 13kg and without being fat. And of course one of the most attractive features of this cat is its long tail of full flowing fur. This is a people cat and so needs to be with people. It makes an excellent family pet and is more than happy to 'hang out' with all those living in the house, but it does need to be kept 'entertained'.