THE MAINE COON


by Peanut



HOW I CAME TO BE

There are many legends of how the Maine Coon developed here in North America, but the one that most breeders like to tell is the one about Captain Coon and his cats.

It seems there was this sea captain named Captain Coon. He and his ship traveled many times from England to the Atlantic Coast with cargo and people travelers. There were also very large rats and some mice, too. Of course, the people did not like this very much, so Captain Coon had very large longhaired cats to take care of the rat population.

These large cats were excellent mousers. They had strong muscular legs and big paws. Their large muzzles were very powerful and could kill a rat easily. The amazing thing about these cats was that as large and ferocious as they were to rats, they were extremely gentle and friendly with people. They soon became known as "Captain Coon's Cats".

Every time the good sailor would dock on the North Atlantic shore, most of these cats would jump ship and settle in the cold areas of Maine. According to the legend, there were already some cats on shore. The Angoras and Persians that were there would mate with the "coon cats", developing a strong and healthy breed. The winters were harsh and cold and only the strongest would survive.

A truly natural and friendly breed, they soon made their way into the barns of the farmers to kill the rats and mice living there. For a long time down the centuries, their main place in the world was as barn cats, developing as nature allowed, into a strong and healthy feline. Eventually they became known as the "Maine Coon Cat".

MY PERSONALITY

In trying to describe the temperament and personality of the Maine Coon, several adjectives come to mind. The first, without a doubt, is intelligent. Then, of course, there is affectionate. What Maine Coon, while cuddling in your lap and looking up at you with those gorgeous copper eyes, could not be considered as such?

There are several unusual traits demonstrated by the Maine Coon. Their fondness for playing in and with water often surprises even their owners. Splashing water out of a bowl, putting their paws in and licking them as if to drink often leaves one in bewilderment.

Another trait common to the Maine Coon is the ability to sit up on their hind legs with a great deal of balance. They can "stand" this way for some time.

One unusual trait is known as "head butting". As observed by some breeders, the cat will go up to another feline, butt it in the head and the kitty will start cleaning the Maine Coon's head, trying to get to places that cannot normally be reached. Often both cats will be seen licking each other at the same time.

The voice of the Maine Coon is also an unusual one. As kittens, they will open their mouths to mew and nothing will come out. As they grow, this "silent meow" turns into a quiet tone, leaving you to wonder what it was all about. Some chirp like squirrels or chipmunks, but throughout their lives, the Maine Coon will remain quiet and subdued.

Known as "The Gentle Giant", the Maine Coon is truly a loving and gentle feline, giving its owner years of loyalty and affection.

Information taken from:
That Yankee Cat The Maine Coon
by Marilis Hornidge
1981 by Durrell Publications, Inc.

This Is The Maine Coon Cat
by Sharyn P. Bass
1983 by T.F.H. Publications, Inc.

Back