The biggest cat in the world

... huge, kind, gentle, smart - this is the Maine coon cat, the biggest cat in the world...

Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest American cat breeds. It ranks among the largest domesticated cats. Due to its impressive size and friendly nature, it is often nicknamed the "gentle giant".

History

This breed was probably created by crossing American cats from the New England-Maine area with long-haired cats from Europe. Their considerable resemblance to the Norwegian Forest Cat suggests that these breeds must have shared a common ancestor. One legend also tells of Marie Antoinette, who, with a premonition of a violent death, wanted to move to America. She was the first to send her beloved cats there, among which were said to be some Turkish Angoras. Their descendants then gave rise to this breed. Whatever the origin, it is truly a breed typical of the American continent. For a long time, Maine Coon cats were used here to fight rodents. They were first exhibited in 1860 at the New York Cat Show, and in 1861 the breed was registered.

Origin of the name of the breed

These cats were first spotted in the US state of Maine, and that's where the first word of the breed's name is derived. The second word - "raccoon" was assigned to the cat due to its bushy tail, strikingly reminiscent of a raccoon teddy bear. Among breeders, however, there is a rather accepted version that the name Maine Coon is derived from the British sailor and captain Charles Coon, who apparently brought long-haired Norwegian Forest Cats to America, which were subsequently crossed with short-haired cats living in America.

Looks

Maine coon cats belong to category II - semi-long-haired cats. They are particularly large and robust. In these cats, the difference between a cat and a tom is very visible. Females tend to be smaller, reaching a weight of 5–7 kg. More robust males can weigh 9-11 kg, neutered cats even 12 kg. They reach their full size relatively late, between the third and fourth year of life.

The body of these cats is large, strong and muscular with angular outlines. Its length, even with its tail, is usually around 1 meter.

The head is long with a distinctly protruding snout. The cheekbones are set high. The ears should be large, high and erect. They are set far apart, have a broad base, and are pointed at the ends, tipped with bristles of hair growing from the inside.

They have large round paws, thick tufts of hair grow between their pads.

Eye color can be different and sometimes even changes with age. Kittens are born with blue eyes, after a few weeks they acquire their own color, for example orange. Over time, around a year or two, it can still change, for example, to green.

Coat - Maine Coon cats have a semi-long coat that is denser around the neck, legs, belly, and tail. Their tail is as long as their body, so they are very dominant. A distinctive feature is the so-called collar around the neck with longer and differently colored fur.

Character

The Maine coon cat is very cuddly and cuddly. She often forms a strong bond with her family, but she is not dependent on them - she also likes to engage in her own activities. He likes to play and does not lose his playfulness even at an advanced age. If, as a kitten, she is introduced to all members of the household, be it cats or dogs, then she has a very friendly relationship with them. Another advantage is her positive relationship with children. These cats love to be cuddled, although of course there are exceptions. They are rather calm cats, they have a social nature. They like to join in all the activities of their owner, but they are not clingy.