The Maine Coon Cat
dedicated to Buster and Boo Boo Kitty
—Chrissie

Listen here: www.spreaker.com/user/bqn1/hwts242

            One of the oldest naturally-occurring cat breeds in North America is the Maine Coon. They are immediately recognizable by their medium to long-haired coats, furry ears, and bushy tails. They also tend larger than other domestic American breeds. It is these characteristic that led to one of the myths about their origins: that they are descended from Norwegian Forest Cats, brought over by Lief Erikson and his Viking colonists in the eleventh century. Their distinctive look has also prompted some to say they are the result of hybridization with a racoon.

The reality is, perhaps, less interesting than these myths: the breed is descended from cats brought over by European colonists, but it was the English Puritans, six centuries later. Their resemblance to Norwegian Forest Cats is the result of convergent evolution, by which domestic cats in both areas naturally selected for traits that benefitted them in the similar environments: longer, thicker coats, large paws, and larger overall size are useful adaptations in a cold climate, whether it is the north-eastern seaboard of North America or Scandinavia.

            The breed became very popular in the late nineteenth century, winning a few of the early cat shows conducted in the United States. But, by the second decade of the twentieth century, Persians and other long-haired show cats had taken the top place away from Maine Coons. Their official recognition by various organizations that dictate standards for show breeds did not come until 1976, though their status as wonderful pets was never in question.

            They are often described as dog-like, or “puppy cats,” due to their friendly personalities. They tend to be more vocal than other cat breeds, more playful, and more social with other cats and even dogs. Their affectionate nature also means they tend to need more attention from their humans, they are not nearly as aloof as other cats. They also defy the stereotype that cats hate water. Their coats do require care, but not nearly as much as other long-haired breeds.

            I can attest personally to all of these traits and more and highly recommend the breed to anyone looking for a wonderful cat companion. But, always start in your local shelters!