Known as the “dogs of the cat world” for their desire to stay amongst the company of humans, maine coon kittens are a natural breed found in North America. There are many tales regarding this species origings, yet much remains a mystery. Yet one thing is certain, these “gentle giants” are some of the most beautiful and friendly cat breeds in existence.
Origins
A plausible theory regarding the origin of Maine Coons is that they are descendants of Norwegian Skogkatts. This species is known to have come out of Scandinavian forests some time in the last 4.000 years. Eventually they might have been brought over to North America by the Vikings. The main reason for this theory, alongside the fact that Vikings discovered North America several hundred years prior to Columbus, is that they bear resemblance to the Maine Coons. The common features involve the long fur and tufted ears and paws. Similarly to the Maine Coon kittens, the Norwegian counterparts also seem to be the most people oriented cats.
Another well regarded theory involves the early settlers in New England. They have been cross breeding short haired and long haired cats brought by them. As such, the harsh climate conditions and breeding process would have ultimately gave birth to this new species that is able to better withstand the effects of winter. This is primarly so given the long coats as well as the tufts of fur on their feet.
This next story, this time in the ‘legend category’, involves the Queen of France, Marie Antoinette. Shortly before her execution in 1793, Antoinette tried to escape with the aid of Captain Samuel Clough. Alongside her most prized possessions, onto the Captain’s ship a number of six Turkish Angora cats would have been boarded. Altough the Queen did not manage to escape, Captain Clough managed to reach the shores of Wiscasset, Maine, and from there nature took its role. After breeding with short haired breeds, these new cats developed into what we know today as the Maine Coon.
An almost similarly story, also regarded as a folk tale involves Captain Charles Coon. This English seafarer had onboard his ship a number of his favorite long haired cats. As the story goes, once they reached New Englands ports, the cats would have intertwined with other local species and gave birth to Maine Coon kittens.
Another legend, based on traits is that Maine Coons are descendants of cats and racoons. Altough genetically impossible the idea was largely taken into consideration in the past. However, this myth would explain some characteristics of Maine Coon cats such as the bushy tail and the brown color range. Another myth was that by mating domestic cats and wild bobcats, Maine Coon cats were born. This scenario would explain the tufts of hair seen on the tips of the ears.
Characteristics
Maine Coon kittens are simply adorable. Great companions they have a series of traits that can make them easily distinguishable. A Main Koon kitten can be recognized by its silky fur and rectangular body. Later on in its development, a Main Coon cat grows a broad chest and they tend to be quite muscular. The color patterns may range from red, orange, white, buff, silver, black, brown, calico or even multi colored.
The eyes are round, large and quite oblique. The shades of color that their posses can range from, green, gold or copper. Sometimes they even have blue eyes. The long and fluffy tail, alongside large, tufted years make them rather unique. Some Main Coons are polydactyl, altough they are no longer common.
Maintenance
Main Coon kittens and cat have thick haired coats. This means that grooming is a frequent maintenance activity. As opossed to other cat species, Main Coon cats love water. Main Coon kittens for adoption are said to prefer indoors.
Most often this species of cats must the spayed or neutered. Alongside the usual grooming it is also very important to provide the cat a proper healthy nutrition. Also they require quite large spaces to live. Clean litter pans are a must and also make sure to provide them scratching surfaces.
Personality
Maine Coon cats are known to love nature and are a great addition to any family. They are not overly dependant and are gently, loyal, friendly, playful and very affectionate. They have a kind disposition and are known to be very intelligent. Very often they are regarded “dogs of the cat world” due to the fact that they seek the company of humans.
Maine Coon kittens and cats are very vocal. They have a variety of meows, chirps and trills to get the attention of humans. This cat species tends to have a soft and tiny voices. Maine Coon kittens and cats have a very easy going personality. Both genders are very playful, yet males are known to be more goofy than their female counterparts. Female Maine Coons tend to be more serious.
While they are not overly dependant on humans they do seek out the company of people. As such they like to spend time with their human owenrs, following them through the house, trying to see the activity in which the owners is immersed.
Main Coon kittens are indeed some of the most adorable cats on this planet. Maine Coon kittens for adoption are available after 12 weeks from when they were born. They have to become physical stable and must receive basic inoculations. All Maine Coon breeders go through socialization, examinations, guarantees with their cats. Most Maine Coon cats live quite long lives. Proper care and a healthy nutrition helps this cat species to live long lives. Main Coon cats are regulars at pedigree shows and contest, and the first winner of a cat pedigree contest was a Coon Maine cat, in 1895
This brings to an end our Main Coon kittens article. We hope it will help our readers choose if they would like to adopt one or more of these furry friends.
PetChil