Origin
The Maine Coon is a native breed from the state of Maine in the north-eastern USA. Harsh winters shaped a cat with a dense water-repellent coat, a bushy tail it wraps around itself while sleeping, and large “snowshoe” paws. The breed was first mentioned in the 1860s, and in 1895 a cat named Cosey won the first major cat show in New York.
Temperament
Despite their size, Maine Coons are remarkably gentle. They are sociable yet unobtrusive: they love being near people and “talk” with soft chirps, but never demand constant attention. Maine Coons get along wonderfully with children and other pets, learn commands easily and often fetch toys like dogs.
It is a slow-maturing breed: kittens stay playful until 3–4 years of age and reach full development only by 4–5 years.
Size and appearance
Adult males weigh 7–10 kg, females 4.5–7 kg. Body length with the tail can exceed one metre. Signature features: a rectangular body, a massive “boxy” muzzle, high-set ears with lynx tips and a long bushy tail.
Colours are diverse: black, blue, red, cream and tortie in smoke and silver variations, with classic or mackerel tabby pattern, with or without white. At UkrFenix we mainly work with black smoke and silver classic tabby colours.
Care
The Maine Coon coat is surprisingly practical: brushing 1–2 times a week is enough, more often during shedding season. A large scratching post, a spacious bed and a water bowl (which the cat will happily “play” with) are a must.
Feed a quality super-premium food or a balanced raw diet. Due to their size Maine Coons need more food than ordinary cats, but overfeeding must be avoided.
Health
Maine Coons live 12–15 years on average. The breed’s main hereditary risk is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is why a responsible cattery tests its breeding cats for the MyBPC3 gene mutation. Our cats are n/n (no carrier status detected). Regular vaccinations, parasite treatment and a heart ultrasound after the age of one are also important.
How to choose a kitten
Buy a kitten only from a registered cattery: with a pedigree, a contract, a vet passport and vaccinations. A kitten should move to its new home no earlier than 12 weeks, when it is socialised, litter-trained and has received its first vaccines. Look at the parents: their type, health tests and living conditions tell more about the kitten than any words.
FAQ
Are Maine Coons suitable for families with children?
Yes, it is one of the most patient and kind breeds. Maine Coons love playing with children and rarely use their claws.
Can a Maine Coon live in an apartment?
Yes, as long as there are enough toys, a tall scratching post and daily interaction. Maine Coons live happily in apartments if they are not bored.
At what age can a kitten go home?
Our kittens move to their new families no earlier than 3 months of age, vaccinated, microchipped and with documents.