Maine Coon

A wonderfully handsome large cat, the Maine Coon is the only native long-haired cat of North America, and there are some claims that he derives from the Norwegian Forest Cat, brought over on ships as mousers and ratters. The names derives from the legend that he developed from matings between cats and racoons, though of course this is impossible. However, they do come from Maine in New England and have always been well-regarded for their hunting abilities.

The Maine Coon is a big cat; males can weigh over 20lbs and are built on rectangular lines with plenty of bone and an appearance of strength, unmistakably a hunter. The coat is semi-long with a dense undercoat and glossy guard hairs which give it excellent waterproofing and insulation for the cold winters. A regular weekly comb will help keep the coat in good shape, especially during the periods of coat change in the Spring and Autumn,

The Maine Coon is a relaxed and easygoing cat, affectionate and intelligent he enjoys family life and will live happily with two and four-legged members of the household. He is found in a wide range of colours though Chocolate, Lilac and Himalayan coat pattern (points, as in the Siamese) are not allowed. Otherwise solid colours, Tortie, Tabby, Smoke, Shaded, Bi-Colour and Parti-Colours are all permitted. A beautiful, big cat he is a really good choice for a family.

This is a breed that has seen a steady rise in popularity since being introduced to the UK. In 1994 1,056 Maine Coons were registered with the GCCF and in 2003 that number had risen to 1,729.

Although Maine Coons have no particular health problems, it makes good sense to insure your cats.  Many breeders sell their kittens with six weeks free insurance cover.  More and more owners are now insuring their pets as advances in veterinary medicine, plus the soaring costs of drugs can mean astronomical bills.

Maine Coon Breed Clubs & Rescue

• Maine Coon Breed Society
• Maine Coon Cat Club
• Long Hair & Semi Longhair Cat Club
• Semi Long Hair Cat Association

Maine Coon Breeders

Yingmo  Location Southampton, Hampshire. Specialising in White, Blue, Red and Cream.  All kittens and vaccinated, litter trained and registered with GCCF. Blue and White Studs to approved Queens.  Email.  Also Bengals.

Contact the Breed Clubs who will have lists of Breeders and may have Kitten Lists.