It is time to start a new segment here at Purrfectly Pickles, and what is better than some information you can use forever? This is Breed About It, your one-stop information spot for cat breeds. To kick it off, we are going to start with the Maine Coon. (Yes yours truly!)
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Above: Me!)
The Maine Coon has always been a puzzling breed. The Maine Coon was originally found in Maine in the colonial times, but how did it get there? No one knows for sure, but there are some rather interesting theories.
1. The Raccoon
One
theory on how the Maine Coon came to be is that they are raccoon-domestic cat hybrids. It seems possible at first, since raccoons and Maine Coons both have long, bushy tails. But, biologically, this is 100% impossible.
2. Her Royal Highness
Another particularly imaginative theory is that the Maine Coon is a descendant of Marie Antoinette's long haired cats. Legend has it that the cats and other belongings, along with her, were to be smuggled out of France. Unfortunately, she met her untimely death, but her cats went on to sail to America. Possible? Yes. Did it really happen? Most likely not.
3. The Captain
This may be one of the more believable theories. This one says that the Maine Coons came to America on ships.
Despite their puzzling history, Maine Coons have huge personalities. They are intelligent, loyal, and do well with families with young kids, and with other pets. They also remain playful throughout life, and dot stop growing until they are around 2-4 years old. Maine Coons are known as the "Gentle Giants" for their abnormally large size. Strangely enough, they are fascinated with water. One Maine Coon cat happens to be the world record holder for the longest cat, at a whopping 48. 5 inches. Fun fact: Maine Coons don't meow. They squeak!
The Maine Coon is a generally healthy breed. They are, however, prone to a thing or two, like hip dysplasia.These things are hereditery, so before you adopt a Maine Coon, make sure the kittens (or cats) have all their medical history, and take them to the vet as soon as you adopt them. Taken care of and seeing the vet as normal, Maine Coons are hardy breeds that will live long lives.
One more important thing: grooming. Being an especially fluffy cat, and being longhaired, Maine Coons require a bit of grooming. Regular trips to the groomer (maybe 2-3 times a year) are a necessity, and try to make time to comb/brush them at least once every two days.
So, to sum it up:
Quick Facts:
Personality- sweet, gentle, remain playful throughout life.
Health- very few issues.
Grooming- Quite a bit.
Vocalness- quiet, they don't meow, theysqueak!
For some more pictures, click
here.
Have a certain breed that you want the facts on? Comment below, and I'll see what I can do.
