The Elegant Maine Coon

Though its origins are cloaked in mystery, the Maine Coon remains one of America's most beloved breeds of cat.  I'm proud to say two of those adorable critters call me slave.  Though rumors abound about their origins, the likely explanation is that long haired cats from overseas were introduced to the area and bred with the local domestic short-haired cats.

Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines was the first Maine Coon to be written about, back in 1861.  A Maine Coon won the Best Cat award in 1895 at the Madison Square Garden Show.  After that, the breed declined in popularity until its resurgence in the 1950's.  The Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association was formed in 1968 and the breed has continued to be popular ever since.Maine Coons are ideal for harsher climates, with long, thick coats.  Their unique tabby pattern and large, Lynx-tufted ears make them easy to identify.

One of the things that attract people most to Maine Coons is their excellent personality.  They are not demanding of attention but enjoy spending time with their owners.  They are not needy, clingy or obtrusive but simply enjoy being in your presence.  They are also exceptionally smart.  My first Maine Coon, a big boy named Seymour, would play catch by sitting down and catching things in his paws, and he would draw on paper if given a pen to hold.

Low maintenance, beautifully colored and fiercely independent, the Maine Coon is an ideal breed for beginners and experienced cat owners alike.