Maine Coon
LargeGentle giants with friendly personalities - Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. They're known for their intelligence, playful nature, and dog-like loyalty to their families.
Gentle Giant
Dog-like
Chatty
Cold Hardy
At a Glance
Height
Weight
Life Span
Origin
Characteristics
About Maine Coons
Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed, with males often weighing 15-25 pounds and females typically 10-15 pounds. Despite their imposing size, they're known as "gentle giants" due to their calm, friendly nature and patience with children and other pets.
Originally from the state of Maine, these cats were working cats on ships and farms. Their thick, water-resistant coat helped them survive harsh New England winters. They have distinctive features including large, tufted ears, bushy tails, and prominent ruffs around their necks.
Maine Coons are often described as dog-like due to their loyalty and tendency to follow their owners around. They're intelligent, playful well into their senior years, and many enjoy water - some even like to swim! They communicate with trills, chirps, and chattering rather than traditional meowing.
Perfect For
- • Families with children
- • Multi-pet households
- • Those wanting an interactive cat
- • People who enjoy grooming
- • Cooler climates
Consider If
- • You want a small, quiet cat
- • You can't handle daily grooming
- • You have limited space
- • You don't want a vocal cat
Care Guide
Grooming
- • Daily brushing recommended
- • Extra attention to ruff and britches
- • Regular nail trimming
- • Weekly ear cleaning
- • Occasional baths (they often enjoy them!)
Exercise & Play
- • Moderate daily play sessions
- • Interactive toys and puzzles
- • Cat trees for climbing
- • Water play opportunities
- • Outdoor enclosures if possible
Nutrition
- • High-quality protein diet
- • Large breed cat food formulas
- • Weight monitoring (prone to obesity)
- • Slow growth until 3-5 years old
- • Fresh water always available
Health Considerations
- • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy screening
- • Hip dysplasia monitoring
- • Spinal muscular atrophy testing
- • Regular dental care
- • Joint support for large frame
Ready for a Maine Coon?
Find available Maine Coons near you or take our quiz to see if this gentle giant breed matches your lifestyle.