If you adopted a cat at a shelter or received one as a gift, it is possible that you don’t know what kind of cat they are. Cats come in all different colors, shapes, and sizes, and some are fluffy, while others are completely hairless.

Every cat has specific care they require and need. For instance, the grooming levels and the health conditions are genetically inclined to differ. Maine Coon cats, for instance, need a diet with high levels of natural fatty acids as they have long coats. However, not all cats need the same nutrients.

What are Maine Coon Cats?

Maine Coon cats are unique cats that grow up to 16 inches tall. Although they grow up so tall, some Maine Coons have been recorded to be as tall as two feet!

These cats are gigantic and are known for their gentle and sweet nature, and they are also known to stretch as far as 40 inches in length. The life span for Maine Coon cats is slightly lower than average and ranges from 13 to 14 years.

Since Maine Coon cats are social and enjoy being around people, they are a great addition to any family looking for a loving and affectionate pet. Maine Coon cats require exercise, though, and have a high activity level. They like to play, run, and keep busy throughout their days.

If you are looking into adopting Maine Coon cats, you should be prepared to play with them and take time to care for them properly.

Their coat is also long, thick, and sheds quite often. You should not go more than one day without brushing or grooming your Maine Coon cat, as they have long hair that gets everywhere. It is good to keep a lint roller to pick up pieces of hair that fall throughout your home. You may want to refrain from wearing black around Maine Coon cats.

The History of Maine Coon Cats

There is a lot unknown about Maine Coon cats. What we do know is that European settlers first brought these fluffy and gentle giants to the US in the 1700s. Where did they come from before this? It’s unclear. Some experts speculate that these large cats came from European countries that frequently see snow. However, this is just a theory.

Maine Coon cats are the only native North American long-haired cat. While they did not get here on their own, they have been bred with short-haired cats that are also native to the point that Maine Coon cats are now native to North America.

Their thick coats make them great outdoor cats that can withstand cold and freezing temperatures. However, they are just as happy being inside cats with the proper air conditioning.

How to Tell if Your Cat is a Maine Coon Cat

If you are wondering about your cat because it fits the general description of a Maine Coon cat, you should look into genetic testing. Just like there is genetic testing for humans, which tells us where our ancestors came from, there is genetic testing for cats that use either saliva or blood to give an estimate of what they are mixed with.

You can order this test online and have it shipped for you or talk to your cat’s veterinarian about any offers as they sometimes carry the tests. It takes approximately 6-8 weeks for the results to publish, but it is worth it if you are curious!

You can also consult your cat’s veterinarian and look through a list of qualities and compare them to your cat. While this is not an exact science, your veterinarian has years of experience and knowledge. They may be able to give you helpful suggestions on what your cat is.

Although your cat may not be a full Maine Coon cat, they can be mixed and have similar qualities.

If you adopted your cat from a shelter, you should look at the documents they gave you and see what the cat was listed under. At the same time, there is limited information that they know. It is possible that the local shelter knows at least what one parent is.

Many times, kittens are placed in shelters when they are rescued by people who find their mother and the litter struggling. If the mother is taken in, the shelter may know what they are mixed with. This, however, is also just a guess. The only way to know is to take a genetic test.

Fun Facts about Maine Coon Cats

Do you want to learn more about Maine Coon cats? These lovable cats are fascinating and have a rich history special to North America. Listed below are some fun facts about these gorgeous long-haired cats.

1. The Maine Coon cat is the state cat of – you guessed it – Maine. Since these cats first originated in Maine, they have been a favorite in the Northern part of the US.

2. The longest Maine Coon cat ever recorded was 48.5 inches, a little over four feet!

3. Buying Maine Coon cats from breeders is expensive; you can purchase one for over $5,000.

4. Maine Coon cats love splashing and playing in the water. Although it is unknown as to why, it is cute to watch.

That’s What You Need to Know About Maine Coon Cats

Maine Coon cats are the state cat of Maine for a reason. These cats are majestic and come in all different sizes, shapes, and colors. The gentle giants of North America are affectionate and great for families that have the time and energy to keep their cats active.

You may have a Maine Coon cat if they fit the description on one, but the only way to know is to undergo genetic testing. However, either way, your cat is a loving and wonderful friend to your family, no matter what type of cat they are.