The Maine Coon is an American breed of domestic cat, known for its large size, typically affectionate nature and keen intelligence. The first part of the breed's name reflects its New England roots. The origins of second part ("coon") is unknown, but may be based on a myth that the cat is a hybrid of feline and raccoon.
Traits
Maine Coons are typically large and long in body, with heavy, glossy coats, and tufts of fur on the tips of the ears and between the toes. Disposition is usually gentle and affectionate. They're known for high intelligence, a penchant for causing household mischief, and for making a "trilling" or "cooing" sound, as distinct from the typical feline "meow."
History
The Maine Coon is believed to be descended from from the interbreeding of American shorthaired cats with long-haired European breeds, such as the Norwegian Forest Cat. Maine Coons and their ancestral breeds are believed to have been kept as working cats on merchant ships and New England farms, for the purpose of catching pests.
References
Fast Facts
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Known as the "gentle giant" of the feline world
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The longest domestic cat on record is a Maine Coon 49 inches (121cm) in length
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America's first indigenous show cat
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In 1985, the Maine Coon was named the state cat of Maine
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May weigh up to 25 pounds
