The Giant Cat
The Huge Maine Coon Cat is the oldest domestic cat breed in the United States and is recognized as the largest cat breed. It was designated as the official breed of the state of Maine, where it became known for its ability to catch mice and withstand harsh climates.
The Maine Coon made its first appearance at shows in 1878. In 1895, at the Madison National Feline Show, held at Garden Square in New York, a representative of the breed won the best in show award. The Maine Coon continued to receive awards at shows until the first decade of the 20th century, when Persians and other long-haired cats became more popular. The breed then almost disappeared and was considered extinct in the 1950s, although incorrectly. Currently, even after two centuries since its origin, the Maine Coon stands out in feline exhibitions around the world, triumphantly returning to the top of the great regional champions.
Origin of the breed
Origin of the breed: The breed emerged more than 200 years ago in North America and to this day there are mysteries and legends about its origins. Some believe that Maine Coon cats are the result of crosses between raccoons and domestic cats that lived near forests, explaining the name and furry tails; others suggest that the breed arose from crossbreeding between Canadian Lynxes and domestic cats. However, we know that these are just legends, as there are genetic incompatibilities between these animals. The Maine Coon is probably the result of crosses between Angoras and long-haired cats from other regions, mainly from northern Canada, brought on vessels that crossed the seas to Europe during the spice trade at that time. Transporting the felines was a way to control rats and protect grain in trade. Upon landing at ports, they bred with other local cats, resulting in big cats being in abundance in the Maine region.
Temperament
The Maine Coon is very docile, affectionate and companionable, being very active and loving to play. It generally gets along well with children and other pets, such as dogs, and is considered very intelligent.
The physical
The Maine Coon can weigh up to 13 kilos. It has a long, muscular body, a square snout and large paws with tufts of hair, large, expressive eyes, large ears with or without tufts, a long tail with dense fur and a waterproof, thick and disheveled coat that serves well as a farm cat. who leads an outdoor life.