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Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats
Fun Facts, Urban Legends, And Busted Myths!
The characteristics of Maine Coon cats are shrouded with an aura of mystery.
There is something fascinating and mysterious about the Maine Coon cat. This breed of cat is known for its impressive size and unique physical characteristics.
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"In a nutshell, what is it like to have Maine Coon cats as pets?"
Perhaps it's due to their rugged looks that there are a few common myths surrounding the characteristics of the Maine Coon cats.
It's time to set the record straight!
Just as in people, personalities will vary with individual cats.
Read on to learn just what kind of family pets these cats are.
Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats - Friend or Foe?
Perhaps it's because of their rugged appearance or formidable size that Maine Coon Cats are often perceived as being a "rough and tumble" sort of cat.
It is assumed that a Maine Coon will necessarily be a skilled hunter, have an innate need to be outdoors (being wild and all) and actually have a vicious streak toward people!
It's time to bust these myths! Nothing could be further from the truth. According to The Cat Fanciers Association's breed description, a Maine Coon cat should have "an essentially amiable disposition." What does this mean? Well, a breed description, for any breed, could be thought of as a list of requirements.
So, a purebred Maine Coon is actually required to have a disposition, or temperament, that is amiable!
Here are some synonyms of amiable: friendly, social, good-natured, agreeable, affable, cordial, kind, likeable, genial, and good-humored.
Yes, these are accurate descriptions of the wonderful and gentle Maine Coon cat personality.
Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats -
Tales, Fables, and Urban Legends
From time to time, you'll hear stories about "tough" Maine Coons - expert hunters, always outdoors, maybe even a little unpredictable.
Sometimes the story goes even further… a huge cat with a wild streak, catching everything in sight and keeping the whole household on edge.
These are fun to hear, but they don’t really reflect the breed.
Maine Coons are known for their gentle, easygoing nature. Aggression isn't a defining trait, and a rough or unpredictable temperament isn’t a sign of a "real" one.
The truth is, most cats will hunt if given the chance. Chasing birds or small animals isn’t unique to this breed.
What is characteristic is their social, steady personality and their ability to fit comfortably into family life.
That's also why responsible breeders today strongly recommend keeping them indoors - not only for safety, but because they’re best suited to being part of the home, not roaming it.
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The Ultimate Family Pet!
The true personality characteristics of Maine Coon cats make them an awesome family pet.
These cats are unbelievably patient with children. They are easy-going with dogs, and they are loyal family members.
To call a Maine Coon cat social is an understatement. A Maine Coon cats favorite place to be, by far, is with his family. They do seem more like dogs than cats sometimes. This is because of their outgoing, friendly, and amiable personality.
The Maine coon will always choose the companionship of his family. Sure, he might take an hours-long nap somewhere alone, but his favorite place to be is with his people!
He will not be shy with company and will not slink away from well-behaved children.
Our Maine Coon cats will greet, chirp, and rub against the youngest family members (even babies!) as readily as they will visit with any adult. We have never even considered cat declawing, and rarely bother to trim their nails.
Simply put, there is not a mean bone in the body of a Maine Coon cat. Their impressive size and "rough" appearance totally belie their super-gentle personality. Once you get to know the personality characteristics of Maine Coon cats, there is just no going back!
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Hi, I'm Carrie! As a native Mainer, Coonie mom and author, I've spent over 14 years helping cat owners understand their Coonies and mixes. Real experience, research-backed insights - that's my approach. Happy, healthy cats - that's the result!
Curious about my experiences? Check out my About Page!
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