Maine Coon cats are one of the largest domesticated breeds of felines. They are known as the “longest cat” because of their size. They are also one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, specifically native to the state of Maine, from which they are named after.
The exact origins of the Main Coon are shrouded in mystery, as are when the cat was introduced to the United States. Folklore has it that Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France was attempting to flee France in 1793 with the help of Captain Samuel Clough. She packed up six of her favorite Turkish Angora cats and somehow they made the voyage over to Wiscasset, Maine.
Another story says that the English sea captain Charles Coon kept long-haired cats aboard his ships and some of these cats got ashore in New England ports and mated with the local feral short-haired cat population.
No matter what their origins, the Main Coon is a popular breed.
The large and sociable cat and is nicknamed “the gentle giant” by many of their owners.
The breed has a variety of colors but is characterized by a rectangular shaped body, silky flowing coat and a long, bushy tail.
Reputed for its intelligence and playful, gentle personality, the Maine Coon is often cited as having “dog-like” characteristics.
They are also known for their size. Male cats can weigh up to 35 lb (15.9 kg). Also the title for the “longest cat” in the 2010 Guinness World Records belongs to a Main Coon named Stewie, who measured 48.5 in (123 cm) from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail.
One thing is for sure, they are not your average-sized kitty!
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