Maine Coons are generally the big friendly cats with great personalities and love being part of
the family. They get along well with kids, dogs and other cats.  The maine coons referred to as
"The Gentle Giant"  they are  the only long haired, native American cat.

This hardy, handsome breed of domestic cat was established at less then 200 years ago, and
its unique characteristics developed as it adapted to Maine's own unique characteristics. Maine
coons are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America and are regarded as a native of
Maine.

Most Maine coon breeders believe that the breed  originated from matings between per-existing
short haired domestic cats and long haired types brought to America from overseas by New
England seamen or by Vikings. We know from history that the old sailing ships kept cats for
rodent control, and Maine was a commerce area, so it is not difficult to imagine how this could
happen.

Maine coons are tall, muscular, big-boned cats, with a long, rectangular body and deep chest.
Males commonly reach 13 to 20 pounds; females, normally about nine to 12; they may continue
to grow until three to five years of age. They have long muzzles and long teeth. All of these
traits would have given them an advantage against competitors as well as predators.

Maine coons, with their heavy coats, are well suited to the harsh New England winters. Adult
Maine coons have a three-layer coat; in winter, their undercoats thicken. They have long guard
hairs to keep off the snow and repel water, and a long, bushy tail to wrap around themselves
for warmth. Maine coons have large, furry feet (all the better for walking on snow); furry, tufted
ears that stay warm against the cold; and extremely long whiskers, which help them stay clear of
brush that may entangle their long fur.  Maine Coons are also known for their loving nature and
intelligence. They are very loyal and enjoy the company of both humans and other pet animals.
They can be very easily trained and adapt themselves easily to new environment. Today,
Maine Coons are one of the largest breeds of domestic cat because of their friendly & calm
temperament. Yes, Maine coons are my favorite cat bred. They have so many traits like a dog.
They are loyal and easy to train to do tricks or to lead. CFA now has agility competition. I truly
think one will see more and more maine coons competing in this class.

Another interesting fact was in the mid-19th century, the Maine coon became a special exhibit
at many county fairs in Maine, thus becoming America's very first "show cat." Maine coons
come in almost all colors; although the classic brown tabby may be the first that comes to mind,
they can be red tabby, silver tabby, tortoiseshell, black and white or cream, red, blue silvers,
etc.