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.

If you can't get enough of Maine Coons, you'll love our fun, free Daily Digest!

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"In a nutshell, what is it like to have Maine Coon cats as pets?"

blue silver maine coon sitting outdoors profile

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.

Why Do Maine Coons Look So Fierce?

A Maine Coon can wear a seriously stern expression. Their square muzzle, high cheekbones and heavy brow give the face a look of concentration, even when the cat is completely relaxed and just watching you make dinner.

stunning black maine coon cat

Tall ears tipped with lynx-like tufts add to the wildcat look, and the thick ruff around the neck makes the head and shoulders seem even bigger.

Put that on a cat that may weigh close to 20 pounds, and you can see why visitors sometimes hesitate before reaching out a hand.

All of that comes down to how the breed is built, though, and it says very little about personality.

The contrast is a big part of the breed’s appeal. A cat who looks like he just stepped out of the North Woods may trot over to greet you with a tiny chirp, then follow you from room to room to see what you’re up to.

When you meet a Maine Coon you don’t know, read the body language rather than the face.

Soft eyes, an upright tail and a relaxed posture tell you far more than that serious brow ever will.

Most of the time, the fierce face belongs to a cat who’s simply waiting for someone to notice him.

row of five different maine coon cats

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.

There's so much to know about this awesome breed! Join 1,200+ fellow Maine Coon lovers and get our free Daily Digest, for something new every morning:

The Ultimate Family Pet!

little boy and his maine coon cat

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.

young girl holding her black maine coon cat

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. 

For so much more on their characteristics, head back up to: Maine Coon cats!

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About this site: 

MCCN has been online since 2010, following the breed through kittenhood, growth spurts, coat changes, health questions, and everything in between.

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