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At
a glance...
Body Size... Large
Coat Length... Long
Life span... 15 yrs |
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Maine Coon |
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Additional Information on
the Maine Coon is proudly bought to you by...
Jasmina & Rod White
Jazzkatz Maine Coons
email:
jazzrod@austarmetro.com.au
10 Little Rush Close, South Lake,
Western Australia 6164
phone: 61 (0)8 9417 8646 |
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Description... |
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 The
Maine Coon cat is is a semi long haired cat. Maine Coons are large cats,
with males weighing up to 18 pounds. The wedge-shaped head is small
in comparison to the muscular, broad-chested body. The ears are
large and prominent with tufts of hair at the tips. The coat is
long, dense and silky, and is longer on the back and legs than over
the body. Both solid colours and patterns are acceptable. The tail is
long with dense fur. They have a single
layered waterproof coat. They get on with other animals, children
and adults. They are vastly adaptable with a wonderful
temperament. They have sheer presence with their strong looks which
is emphasized by their physical size - being considered one of the
larger domestic breed of cat
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History...
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The Maine Coon is the first
longhaired breed of cat native to North America. These cats probably
originated from longhaired cats brought back to the United States by
ship captains. The name "Maine Coon" may arise from the common tail
striping present on cats with the tabby colour pattern,
but to the rest
of the world it is considered one of the oldest USA breeds,
originating in the Maine area. This breed
was once known in Europe as the American Forest Cat. A Maine Coon
cat was chosen "best cat" in the first major cat show recorded in
the United States. Originally they were
referred to as a Barn Cat as that was their main job. |
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Traits...
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Maine Coons are often described as the clowns of the
cat world.. They also have a penchant for water. They generally
have a soft voice and often chirp to communicate.
The breed is gentle and
intelligent, and is tolerant with children.
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Health...
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There are two health problems that have crept into
this breed, HCM (heart condition) and Hip Displasia Most registered
breeders are working hard at eliminating the lines that carry these
problems.
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Beware... |
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Maine Coons are very adaptable to different
environments. However, with the changing climate of how councils
are restricting ownership of cats, they should be kept restricted
to the house, preferably with access to a run. If they are kept
in an apartment, they need a nice tall scratchy post and lots of
toys and a vantage point to look out the window. At no time
should windows be left open as they believe they can fly! |
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Summary...
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 Maine Coon cats may show a
predilection for sleeping in odd nooks and crannies, which is
perhaps a holdover from their life on board ship. Originally a working cat, the Maine Coon is solid, rugged,
and can endure a harsh climate. A distinctive characteristic is its
smooth, shaggy coat. A well proportioned and balanced appearance
with no part of the cat being exaggerated. With an essentially
amiable disposition, it has adapted to varied environments.
They are a fantastic loving family pet,
without the slavish attachment of a dog. You have to earn a cats
affection and trust. This breed is particularly popular with the
males as it is a nice, large and solid feeling cat, that does not
scare the males who sometimes feel that they might 'break' a less
substantial cat |
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