Cats are one of the most loved and adored animals that are kept as a pet. Among various breeds of cats, Maine Coon’s distinctive appearance and great hunting skills make it stand out amongst others. They are large, beautiful cat with thick fur and a bushy tail. Maine Coon cat tend to shed hairs a lots. They are different from others in various ways.
These cats are affectionate, they get easily attached to their owners and friendly to other pets. Maine coon cats are intelligent and smart. They can pick up quickly every tricks that you teach them.
Before getting a Maine Coon cat, there are certain facts that you should know about. For example their origin, overall health, height, eyesight, and many more. You should know about the behavior of a Maine Coon cat, how its behaviors change over time or what triggers the cat’s anxiety. It is also important to create a good environment for them to live on.
Now let’s find out some interesting facts about Maine Coon cats.
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1. Do Maine Coon cats come from Maine?
Is it a myth or a fact that Maine Coon cats come from Maine? Let’s dig up some facts. Maine Coon is known as one of the oldest breeds of cat in North America. It does not interbreed with another breed. It is all natural.
To answer the above question, it is true that Maine Coon cats originate in Maine, the United States. In fact, Maine is known as the official cat state and the hometown of Maine Coon.
One popular myth about its origin is that Maine Coon is descendant of European ship cats. But no one know for sure if that is right or wrong.
2. Do Maine Coons have 6 toes?
A polydactyl cat has more than the usual number of toes, on one paw or more. Many breeds of cat has polydctyly or polydactylism, not just Maine Coon.
Maine Coon cats, in the early times, were having six toes by birth. But it was the time of early breeding. The number can come as high as 40% of Maine Coons were born with 6 toes. Now there are low chances for that to happen.
3. Do Maine Coon cats have an eye problem?
Maine Coon cats have large, beautiful eyes of golden, blue or green colors. The colors can also change through time. Baby Maine Coons have blue eyes when they are born, but it can change in the later stage of their life.
Maine Coons usually do not have eye problems. But as with any other cat, it is necessary to take good care of her eyes. You need to pay attention if they appeared to be uncomfortable. Some rare eye condition for Maine Coons include isastigma, myopia, strabismus or hyperopia.
These eye conditions can happen due to many reasons. It can be an infection, viruses, birth eye problem, or any side effects from food. If you see some unusual discharge from her eyes, monitor the condition and take her to a veterinarian.
4. Can Maine Coon cats live in Texas?
Absolutely. You can raise a Maine Coon cat in Texas as well as California. They are easily adaptable to their living condition.
Although these cats are cold winter animals, they can live in hot weather too. But when the weather get extreme, it can be tough for any cat, especially one with thick fur like Maine Coon.
During summer months, you should provide them with a cool area to live in, plenty of water and do not leave your pets unattended.
5. What are Maine Coon behavioral problems?
Maine Coon cats are highly active. You can teach them anything and they will pick it up quickly. They are playful and active.
Maine Coon do not show much behavioral problems. They are friendly to human, other pets and even strangers. Maine coon cats are very loyal to their owners.
They can adapt quickly and adjust themselves to the house they are living in. Maine Coons cats have a soft heart despite their extra-large body. Their appearance can make you afraid at once but their behavior will make you fall in love with them.
The only possible problem that comes to a Maine Coon is when she is left abandoned. The Maine Coons fear loneliness. These cats need attention and grooming frequently. If you leave them alone, they can get anxious and sad.
6. Are Maine Coon cats related to lions?
Maine Coons can, in some way resemble lions but they are not related. Due to their giant body, bushy tail, and lioness face, people often relate them to lions.
Some say Maine Coons are related to an extinct special cat breed – the Norwegian Forest Cat. But no matter the relation, we just know that they are beautiful big cat, well loved by many.