Maine Coon History (CFA)

I think starting from the beginning is fitting for this first post! As an active member of the Cat Fancier Association (CFA) my opinions and writing will be written from my take on the CFA standard. This will be a summed-up version as there is far too much to write for a single post. We will expand in additional post to come.

HISTORY: With a documented history going as far back as the 1850's the Maine Coon Cat is arguably the most popular and largest of the pedigreed cats. They are a friendly, sweet-natured breed that is easy to train and well suited for cold winters. Maine Coons have a heavy, flowing coat and well tufted paws thought to help navigate snow banks.

Early on it was thought that the Maine coon (due to its tail) was a cross with a racoon, hence the "coon" part of the name. However, it was soon realized that this was genetically impossible. The Maine Coon's roots started in New England when short haired ship cats arrived with the early settlers.

There are many legends and myths in regards to the longer haired Maine Coon origins including a story of Turkish Angoras released into the Maine woods and a cat-loving sea captain named "Coon" who had many long-haired cats. Maine Coon cats have been a part of the CFA cat shows since 1859 when a Maine Coon named "Cosey" was chosen "Best Cat". Cosey's medals are still displayed at the CFA headquarters in Alliance Ohio.

Maine Coon cats are considered social, loyal and formerly as a working breed. They are generally fond of water (and tend to make water messes). They chirp and trill in a talkative manner more so than meowing. Although they are not considered a talkative breed, I would have to disagree!

PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES: An adult Maine Coon Cat will have a thick, luxuriant coat that is shorter at the shoulders, longer on the sides, stomach and back legs, and culminating in a dramatically long plumed tail. The head is rectangular in shape, the muzzle square and strong, and a gently concave profile connects the two. Ears are dramatically large (not tall but large in width), typically with prominent tufts but not always, and the cat’s intelligence shines forth in its large, expressive eyes. This is a slow-maturing breed that can take up to three years or so to reach full growth. While it is not unusual for a mature male’s weight to reach or exceed 20 pounds, females are usually smaller. (Copied from the CFA page with inserts).