The Ultimate Guide To Understanding Maine Coon Cats And Their Distinct Traits

By Aileen D

This article was originally published on funcatz

Maine Coon cats are quite captivating. With their large size, bushy tails, and ear tufts, they stand out from other cats. Their personalities are equally captivating, as they are famous for being amiable and social.

Maine Coons are highly intelligent and playful, often enjoying games of fetch or chasing after toys. They also have a gentle disposition and are great with children, making them excellent family companions.

But perhaps the most captivating feature of Maine Coon cats is their unique vocalizations. They are known for their distinctive trilling and chirping sounds, which add to their charm and make them even more endearing.

Would you ever want to adopt one for yourself? If so, here are 45 things you need to know about these beautiful creatures.

How big do these fellas get?

Male Maine Coon cats can grow to be much larger than females. Fully grown male Maine Coons can weigh between 13-18 pounds, while females usually weigh between 8-12 pounds. But note that their large size isn’t limited to their weight.

Image courtesy of Semiotic_sprout / Reddit

Maine Coons also have long bodies and bushy tails that add to their impressive appearance. It’s important to note that Maine Coons take longer to reach their full size compared to other breeds, with some not fully maturing until they are around four years old.

Compared to dogs

While Maine Coon cats are one of the largest cat breeds, they are still significantly smaller than most dog breeds. For example, a fully grown male Maine Coon may weigh around 18 pounds, while a small dog breed like a Chihuahua can weigh up to 6 pounds.

Image courtesy of 95102 / Reddit

However, Maine Coons do have a larger size and presence than most other cat breeds, which can make them appear more comparable to some smaller dog breeds like Beagles. Despite this size difference, cats and dogs make great companions, and choosing your pet ultimately depends on individual preferences and lifestyle.

Doesn’t look like it

Despite what we have been told, it’s hard to believe that these gargantuan cats are still smaller than most dogs. By sight alone, we would have thought we could put a leash on these and make them guard the house.

Image courtesy of Penguinfreek5 / Reddit

But it’s a deep sleep that gives this cat away. Unlike guard dogs that will rouse to action at the drop of a spindle, this cat breed only yawns contentedly. He then shoves the burglar away from his personal space and goes back to sleep.

Kids around the house

These cats are popular for being gentle and amiable, which is why they’re great to have around kids. However, as with any animal, it is important to supervise children and pets when they are interacting to prevent any accidents from happening.

Image courtesy of yuliyamnn / Reddit

While Maine Coon cats are not typically aggressive, they are still animals with instincts and can react defensively if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. Don’t forget to tell your kids the basics of interacting with felines, like not pulling their tails or ears and letting them take selfies.

A friend or a foe

Maine Coon cats can be your kids’ loyal companions. They have always been known for their gentle demeanor, which contrasts with their overly large size. Imagine one of these rubbing against your calf or letting your kid sleep on its back.

Image courtesy of CoolestBurrito / Reddit

Maine Coon cats are known for their playful nature, often engaging in games of chase, fetch, and even hide-and-seek. They also have a great deal of patience, so they’re perfect if you have kids. They might even do better at babysitting than you!

Eternals

Did you know that Maine Maine Coon cats have a long lifespan, often living well into their teens, making them a long-term commitment and beloved member of the family? You could give one to your kid, and it would witness your kid’s growth all the way to adolescence.

Image courtesy of timconnery / Reddit

These cats can live up to 15 years, but there have been some of them who reached their twenties thanks to a healthy upbringing. That means nearly two decades of using a fur remover roll on most of your upholstery.

Age in human years

In terms of human years, it is generally accepted that one cat year is equivalent to approximately four human years, although this can vary depending on the cat’s age and breed. Therefore, a 12-year-old Maine Coon cat would be approximately 64 years old in human years.

Image courtesy of BubbleDaPanda/ Reddit

Meanwhile, a 20-year-old Maine Coon cat would be approximately 96 years old in human years. It’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and the lifespan of any pet can vary based on a variety of factors such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle.

Meet Rubble

The oldest living Maine Coon cat on record is a feline named Rubble, who lived to be an impressive 31 years old. Rubble, who lived in the United Kingdom, was born in 1988 and passed away in 2019. Rubble’s longevity is a testament to the breed’s overall good health and long lifespan.

Image courtesy of mycat_cattery / reddit

Maine Coon cats have robust health and an amazing ability to live long lives. While Rubble may have set a record for the oldest living Maine Coon cat, there are certainly many other cats of this breed that have lived long and happy lives.

Got a lynx tip?

Maine Coon cats are known for their distinctive “lynx tips,” which are tufts of hair on the tips of their ears. These tufts of hair are made up of longer, coarser hairs that are thicker and more pointed than the rest of the fur on the cat’s body.

Image courtesy of luffelse / Reddit

The lynx tips give Maine Coon cats a striking appearance that sets them apart from other cat breeds. They are thought to have evolved as a protective feature, helping to keep the cat’s ears warm in cold weather and providing camouflage in their natural environment.

Unique feature?

But know that lynx tips are not unique to this breed. Some other cat breeds, such as Siberian cats and Norwegian Forest cats, can also have lynx tips on their ears. The length and thickness of the lynx tips can vary from cat to cat.

Image courtesy of hill2cm / Reddit

In fact, the size of these lynx tips can even differ on each ear of the same cat. That means the presence of lynx tips is not a definitive indicator of a Maine Coon cat’s breed. While most Maine Coon cats have lynx tips, some may not have them at all.

Other quirks

Maine Coon cats are known for their impressive hunting abilities, which are a result of their natural instincts and physical attributes. As descendants of working cats from Maine, they were originally bred for their hunting skills to keep vermin and rodents at bay.

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Their large size, strength, and agility make them excellent hunters, and they are capable of taking down prey larger than themselves, in case you didn’t know. Despite their impressive hunting abilities, nowadays these cats are better known for their sociable nature.

Low-maintenance pets

Maine Coon cats are not considered high-maintenance cats in terms of their grooming needs. While they have long, thick coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles, they do not typically require daily grooming or professional grooming services.

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Additionally, they are generally healthy cats that do not have any major health issues or special dietary requirements. However, Maine Coon cats enjoy spending time with their humans, so they do require regular attention and playtime. Don’t get one of them if you can’t give them that!

A drawback?

Since they’re sociable creatures, do you think Maine Coon cats could suffer from a lack of play and interaction? While they do not typically die of loneliness, a lack of socialization and stimulation can lead to behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, and destructive behavior.

Image courtesy of Paradisity / Reddit

It is important to provide Maine Coon cats with plenty of playtime and socialization to keep them happy and healthy. In addition, you can prevent boredom and keep them entertained by buying toys, scratching posts, and other forms of cognitive and bodily stimulation.

Fluff’s misadventures

Once upon a time, there was a mischievous little Maine Coon kitten named Fluffy. Fluffy loved to play and explore, but he had a bit of a wild side. He was known for his misadventures, like getting stuck in a vase or knocking over a lamp while chasing his tail.

Image courtesy offrankoflumperdink / Reddit

Despite his antics, everyone who met Fluffy couldn’t help but fall in love with his adorable face and fluffy tail. One day, Fluffy decided to try his paw at stand-up comedy. He delivered a few terrible puns, but everyone laughed anyway lest he squished them with his size.

Needs some lovin’

Now that we’ve mentioned it, it seems like Maine Coon cats sound a lot like your regular cat. It’s just their sheer size and weight that might seem menacing. But forget to give these felines a rub on the stomach, and they’ll grow socially anxious.

Image courtesy of findigo_mainecoon / Reddit

They’ll find a way to get your attention one way or another – like sprawling themselves over your favorite seat or painting the furniture with their fur. You would be lying if you said that you hadn’t noticed these gargantuan cats.

How about cat pens?

Have you ever tried to confine a Maine Coon cat to a standard-sized cat pen? It’s like attempting to place a watermelon in a thimble! These cats are large and in charge, and they need the space to stretch their legs and show off their acrobatic skills.

Image courtesy of stinkylinkydingdong / Reddit

A Maine Coon cat in a small pen is like a tiger in a circus wagon – it’s just not natural. If you’re considering adopting a Maine Coon cat, be prepared to invest in a spacious cat pen or just accept the fact that they will probably take over your entire house.

Strained a muscle

Trying to carry a Maine Coon cat is like attempting to lift a bag of potatoes – it’s heavy, awkward, and may require the use of both arms. These cats are no joke when it comes to their size, often weighing in at 15-20 pounds or more.

Image courtesy of Chainsaw_Montoya / Reddit

Think of it this way – who needs a gym membership when you’ve got a giant cat to lift and tote around? Just make sure to use proper lifting techniques, or you may end up with a pulled muscle and a disgruntled cat.

Max, the model

There was a Maine Coon cat named Max who had a unique talent. Max’s owners were amazed by this and decided to teach him how to walk on two legs like a human. They spent hours coaching Max on proper posture and balance, and before long, Max was a pro at walking upright.

Image courtesy of beck207 / Reddit

But one day, Max attempted to walk down the stairs on two legs. It didn’t end well, and Max ended up tumbling down the stairs in a furry ball. From then on, Max stuck to his four-legged ways and left the acrobatics to the circus performers.

Frostbite

Maine Coon cats, like all domesticated cats, are adapted to living indoors and do not tolerate extreme weather conditions very well. While they have a thick, warm coat of fur, they are not impervious to the cold and can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite in very cold temperatures.

Image courtesy of memezzer/ Reddit

It is important to provide Maine Coon cats with a warm, dry place to rest and avoid exposing them to extreme cold for extended periods of time. Allow your cat to go outside, but remember to monitor them closely and provide them with a safe and warm shelter.

Hearty appetite

Maine Coon cats are generally big cats and have hearty appetites. As kittens, they may require several small meals throughout the day to support their growth and development. Adult Maine Coon cats typically eat around 1 to 1.5 cups of dry food per day.

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That can be divided into two meals. It is important to choose a high-quality cat food that meets their nutritional needs and to avoid overfeeding them, as obesity can be a problem for Maine Coon cats. That’ll make them doubly difficult to carry.

Colorful Luna

Luna had a very special talent. Whenever she got wet, her fur would magically turn into a ball of clump! Luna’s owners loved showing her off to their friends and family, and Luna always seemed to enjoy the attention. But getting Luna to take a bath was no easy feat.

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She would wiggle and squirm until the very last minute, and as soon as she was released from the tub, she would prance around the house, drying off her coat in front of the rainbow-colored, glass-stained panels. Luna may have been a handful, but she certainly brightened up her owners’ lives.

Utterly displeased

Owners rarely saw this one frowning. But when they did, they knew it could be a sign of discomfort or displeasure. Maine Coons have expressive faces, and a frown could indicate they are feeling pain, stressed, or unhappy with their surroundings.

Image courtesy of mopene / Reddit

As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to understand your cat’s behavior and body language to ensure they are comfortable and healthy. If you notice your Maine Coon frowning or exhibiting other unusual behaviors, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to identify any underlying health issues.

Read her right

Of course, it could very well be that your Maine Coon cat just wants to get another bowl of high-quality food. Look at this one helping herself to a heaping. Now that she has taught herself to stand, stealing tomorrow’s rations should be easier.

Image courtesy of kmr2928 / Reddit

Alas, that does not seem to be the case here. Oftentimes this Redditor catches his Maine Coon cat making a withdrawal on her stock of food. He sternly tells the cat to practice a little more restraint and to scram.

Needs more space

It is not uncommon for Maine Coon cats, known for their love of high places, to take up space on countertops. However, when two Maine Coon cats decide to share the same kitchen counter, it can become a bit crowded.

Image courtesy of moeliza12 / Reddit

It’s important to remember that kitchen countertops are not an ideal place for cats to hang out. They may knock over items or come into contact with harmful substances. It’s important to provide cats with alternative high spaces to prevent any potential accidents.

Alternatives

On second thought, scratch that. It might not be better to provide these cats with alternative high spaces. Imagine one losing his balance with his bulky weight and then using you as a cushion to soften its blow. Not a pretty sight.

Image courtesy of wireless_Bob / Reddit

It might be best for these bulky felines to occupy the entirety of the coffee tables. No one drinks a cup of coffee here, anyway. Plus, it’ll keep Mom from stockpiling magazines and coffee books that no one bothers to read. Better to have the cats on them.

Gentle giants

Maine Coon cats are often referred to as the “gentle giants” of the cat world, and it’s not hard to see why. With their strikingly beautiful and regal appearance, they are truly majestic creatures. Their large size, luxurious coat, and tufted ears give them a noble presence.

Image courtesy of Bucksy83 / Reddit

Their high cheekbones, intense eyes, and expressive faces make them look confident and self-assured. Maine Coon cats have a natural grace and elegance that is captivating to anyone who sees them. Their impressive appearance is only matched by their friendly and gentle demeanor.

Good grooming

It’s not uncommon for cats to groom themselves by licking their fur and other body parts, including their private areas. While this behavior is perfectly normal and natural for cats, it can sometimes be a bit embarrassing or uncomfortable for cat owners to witness.

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If your cat is caught licking his privates, quickly call the police! Jokes aside, remember that this is normal behavior and doesn’t necessarily indicate any health issues. However, if you notice excessive licking or other signs of discomfort, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

Predatory king

Imagine a Maine Coon cat that looks like a lion! This feline’s distinctive mane frames his face making him look like the predatory king. It doesn’t help that it has villainous, tufted ears and a bushy tail – both adding to its regal appearance.

Image courtesy of mainecoonofday / Reddit

There being no giraffes, hippos, or hyenas in the suburbs, this Maine Coon cat has grown accustomed to eating food off of a can. His predatory ancestors might look down on him, but at least he doesn’t have to break into a sweat to find food.

Needs pacifier

Maine Coon cats generally behave well in grooming salons, although their behavior can vary depending on their individual personality and temperament. Look at this little crybaby asking to be cuddled by her mom before she is given a bath at the salon!

Image courtesy of roto / Reddit

During the grooming process, Maine Coon cats may enjoy being brushed and combed, as they have long and dense fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. They may also appreciate gentle massages, which can help relax them and make the grooming process more enjoyable.

A menace

If you have ever wondered, it only took this cat a matter of months to learn how to stand on its hind feet. It knew it could reach the kitchen counter. And after successfully balancing its weight on both legs, it proved a menace to humans preparing dishes.

Image courtesy of katzewerfer / Reddit

Know that cats learn how to stand on their hind feet anywhere from weeks to months. It really depends on their personality, temperament, and motivation to lick the dishes spotlessly. Guess that’s their way of helping out in the kitchen.

Forgot the other boarder

Needing a flat to move into for the next couple of weeks, this guest asked a favor. Fortunately enough, his friend agreed. He only had a backpack to house his clothes in. He was ushered into the kitchen to find one other boarder, who made his heart skip a beat.

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The lion stared at him unflinchingly. When he looked down, he saw that its paws were more delicate than he would have thought. It took him a couple more seconds to realize that he was face-to-face with a humongous cat. It might not have been a lion, but it was similarly predatory.

Find somewhere else

There is nothing more frustrating than settling down on the couch to relax, only to find that your favorite cushion has been taken over by your furry feline friend. Despite having an entire couch or bed at their disposal, cats seem to have a knack for finding the most comfortable seat.

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This chair was the most comfortable and coveted spot in the house. Despite that, this homeowner couldn’t stay mad at his cat, with its furry face and soft purring. He’ll just have to make do with the cat bedding by the corner.

Feed me

At first glance, the little kitten looked like it could gobble you up in one bite. Its eyes were wide and glowing, and its tiny teeth were sharp and pointed. It had a fierce look about it as if it were ready to pounce at any moment.

Image courtesy of Wisescratch / Reddit

But as soon as you picked it up, the illusion faded away. The kitten was so small and delicate as it snuggled into your arms. It just goes to show that looks can be deceiving and that even the fiercest-looking creatures can have a soft and cuddly side.

Hear me ‘woar

In Game of Thrones, there are countless characters vying for power and control over the Seven Kingdoms. But what if there was a surprise contender for the coveted Iron Throne? Imagine a regal feline making its way onto the throne.

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It stares down at its subjects malevolently, despising each one for its capability to usurp his throne. No one could really know what was going on in its head. Maybe the throne deserves to lie in the paws of this clever cat.

Plush pillow

It’s hard not to want to snuggle up to a cat that’s so furry and fat that it looks like a pillow. With its soft and plush coat, it’s almost too tempting to resist giving it a gentle squeeze. Go ahead, rub on its belly for as long as it doesn’t swipe at you.

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It’s impossible not to feel a sense of comfort and relaxation wash over you. These cats are larger than life, but they have a way of making us feel small and safe in their warm embrace. So go ahead, grab this furry pillow cat, and settle in for a cozy nap.

A tinge of regret

As the tiny Maine Coon kittens tumbled around their mother, the cat owner couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed. She had been so excited to have a litter of these beautiful and regal cats, but now she was starting to regret it. The kittens were everywhere!

Image courtesy of Plover Lover / Reddit

The owner realized that she had underestimated the work and responsibility that came with caring for a litter of kittens. But despite the challenges, she knew that she loved these little furballs and would do everything she could to give them a happy and healthy life.

A pop culture icon

Salem the Cat, the beloved feline character from the popular television show “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” has captured the hearts of viewers to this day. But what if Salem were portrayed as a Maine Coon cat? What would he look like?

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Can you hear him? Salem’s sarcastic quips and dry wit would be even more endearing coming from the mouth of a dignified Maine Coon. Regardless of his breed, Salem will always be a beloved and iconic feline character in pop culture.

Gold for eyes

Careful now. You wouldn’t want to melt into this pot of liquid gold. Much of this Redditor’s friends couldn’t help but be captivated by his Maine Coon cat with his jet black fur and crescent gold eyes. Wait, where were we again?

Image courtesy of 95102 / reddit

It’s hard not to feel as if you’re being hypnotized by its intense gaze. And the punch is that it’s not even looking at you. Without it so much as recognizing your presence in the room, this cat finds a way to command respect and attention from everyone around him.

Hugs meant exclusively for me

A golden cat that’s territorial of its owner can be both endearing and overwhelming. On the one hand, it’s heartwarming to see a cat so fiercely devoted to its human companion. It will follow them everywhere, meowing for attention and affection.

Image courtesy of DontStartNothin / Reddit

On the other hand, it can become a little overwhelming when the cat starts to guard its owner against anyone or anything that comes too close. The golden cat may hiss or swat at other pets or family members. Hugs manufactured exclusively for me!

Before and after

This lady got a Maine Coon cat, and she knew what she was getting herself into. She decided to take two pictures to show how big her furry friend got. The growth of her cat is incredible, but it doesn’t look like the woman was ready for that. She’s really struggling to hold the cat!

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Cleaning litter boxes, dealing with fur everywhere, and constant meowing for attention can wear on even the most patient of cat owners. It’s important to remember that owning a cat is a long-term commitment, and it’s natural to feel tired or frustrated at times. Take it from this mum.

Her point-of-view

As a cat, I often find myself observing my human with great curiosity. From my vantage point, they seem like strange and fascinating creatures. They are so big and clumsy. And they shower me with attention, as I rightfully deserve.

Image courtesy of Mira_Naceren / Reddit

Look at this peasant gawking at me like a lost child. Doesn’t he know he’s in the presence of royalty? He ought to glue his jaws to keep them hanging like that. Do you reckon a quick swipe will do the trick?

Physical 100

Carrying a Maine Coon cat can be a workout in itself. These majestic felines can grow to be quite large and heavy, making it a challenge to lift and carry them for extended periods. However, for one man, carrying his Maine Coon cat became a surprising weight-loss method.

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The man was able to burn calories and tone his muscles. It just goes to show that even the simplest activities, like carrying a cat, can have unexpected health benefits. And who wouldn’t want to get in a little exercise while spending time with their beloved pet?

‘Uncatty’ resemblance

They say that pets often resemble their owners, and in the case of one owner, it’s definitely true. This person’s appearance bears a striking resemblance to their feline friend. They both have green eyes, a lithe walk, and a slender build.

Image courtesy of Jeremy_moss / Reddit

They’re also preoccupied with different things at the moment – he with this cat and the cat with a fluff of feathers on the wall. This resemblance is uncanny, if not disturbing. But it explains the undeniable bond between this cat owner and his pet.

10 reps

One woman found a creative way to get in her daily workout: by using her Maine Coon cat as a dumbbell. At first, the cat seemed unsure of what was happening as she lifted him up and down, but soon he got into the spirit of things and started meowing along to the rhythm.

Image courtesy of FlashTheorie/ Reddit

As the woman worked out, she couldn’t help but giggle at the absurdity of the situation. Her cat might not have been impressed, but she was definitely feeling the burn. She just had to keep watch for any hairballs that would fly into her panting mouth.

Feline marvel

Maine Coon cats are known for their stunningly beautiful eyes, but imagine a cat with two different colored eyes. One such cat is a Maine Coon with one green eye and one gray eye. Do you think this cat can work wonders?

Image courtesy of metatroneyes_maine_coons / Reddit

Some people believe that cats with different colored eyes have special abilities or powers, but even without any supernatural abilities, this Maine Coon is a true marvel. It’s no wonder that people are drawn to the striking appearance of this furball.