If you’re looking for a pet cat, then you may be interested in finding a Maine Coon. These cats are known for their long, cascading tails, which they use as an extra layer of warmth. Their bodies are rectangular, muscular, and long.
Breeders
The Maine Coon is a large domestic cat and one of the oldest natural breeds in North America. This cat is the official state cat of the state of Maine. It is also one of the largest domesticated breeds. Breeders of this breed are often found in the state of Maine, where this cat originated.
The Maine Coon standard has been a point of contention since its creation in 1996. The standard stipulates a cat with a narrow forehead bone and ears that are at least one width apart. However, the standard is not yet complete, and is subject to revision and change. Breeders are advised to check the standard before acquiring a cat, and to make changes whenever necessary.
Breeding a Maine Coon requires a significant amount of time and money. Female Maine Coons must be at least eighteen months of age, or older, before they are ready to mate. During this time, they must be closely monitored to prevent miscarriage. A new kitten will require care and attention from their owners.
The breed is known for its intelligence and amiability. It is also described as “dog-like” in personality and temperament. However, some people have reported Maine Coons being intrusive, and requiring a closed door between owner and cat. In addition, the cats enjoy water and may wash their food in it or sneak into the shower.
Care
Cats of this breed are generally healthy, but they can suffer from specific problems. One of these is feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a disorder in which the heart’s walls become too thick and restrictive. This can lead to heart failure. This condition can be treated with medications or surgical procedures.
This breed is an excellent choice for families. They are known for their intelligence and friendly nature. This breed is especially good with children, making them great family pets. These cats are known as the ‘Gentle Giants’ of the cat fancy, and are often sought after as pets. They can make great companions and therapy cats.
If you’re interested in adopting a Maine Coon, consider finding a breeder in your area. Some breeders will even offer kittens to prospective owners. Shubacoons, located in Binghamton, NY, is a CFA registered cattery of distinction. The husband and wife team that own the facility never cages their cats, and the kittens are raised underfoot. The breeders also offer regular wellness visits and ensure that their kittens receive a great start in life.
Like all cats, Maine Coons require regular grooming. They also need regular playtime. While indoor cats are able to play in their home, it is important to keep them active by providing them with toys and cat furniture. This will keep them busy and stimulate their minds and bodies.
Cost
Maine Coons are large cats, with a male reaching around 18 pounds. They are sociable creatures, and are often described as gentle giants. They are also known to grow quickly, finishing their growth between the ages of three and five. The coat of these cats changes seasonally, and the “frosting” on their ears is a distinctive feature. Their fluffy racoon-like tail is another distinguishing feature.
While purchasing Maine Coon kittens can be expensive, older cats can be a great deal less expensive. Shelters often have adult Maine Coons available for free, or for as little as a hundred dollars. There are several breeders of adult cats, some of which are CFA and TICA certified.
When purchasing a Maine Coon cat, it is important to choose a reputable breeder. You will want to find one that is responsible and works hard to produce healthy kittens. A good place to start your search is the International Cat Association website, which lists registered breeders. Keep in mind that higher-quality cats are likely to cost more than lower-quality ones. You will also want to consider the health needs of your new cat, since older cats may have more health issues.
The cost of a Maine Coon kitten depends on a number of factors. First, you should consider the temperament of the breed. The Maine Coon is an ideal choice for families with children, as they enjoy the attention and company of children. Additionally, they do well with other pets, like cats and dogs. However, you should introduce your new pet to your household pets gradually.
Where to find a Maine Coon cat
A Maine Coon cat can make a wonderful companion for a family, especially if there are children around. The breed is known for its friendly disposition and intelligence. It is a highly trainable breed and can live comfortably with other pets and children. It is also large-boned and hardy, making it a good choice for a house with many children.
Maine Coon breeders can be found throughout the United States. If you live in New York, be sure to visit Shubacoons Maine Coon Cattery in Binghamton, NY. This husband-and-wife team raises their kittens underfoot, without using cages. The cats have free access to their entire home, and each breeding male is given his own 8 x 12 room.
The Maine Coon is a large domestic cat that has a unique wild appearance. The cat has a broad, rectangular body and a large mane around its neck area. As an adult, it has long lynx points on the tips of its ears. These cats require minimal grooming and do not shed much.
A Maine Coon cat will make an excellent family pet and will participate in all family routines. They love water and are fascinated by it. Their thick coats are water-repellent, so the water won’t make them feel overly damp. Some will even join in the shower with you and walk around the wet floor as you get out. If you don’t want to put your Maine Coon through this discomfort, you can have her spayed or neutered.
Common diseases in Maine Coons
Maine Coon cats are vulnerable to several diseases and conditions, including hip dysplasia, spinal muscular atrophy, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Fortunately, these diseases are not fatal but early detection is key to the success of treatment. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a hereditary disease that can lead to heart failure. It affects the muscles of the heart and can cause severe pain and lameness in the hind limbs.
Maine Coon cats can develop cysts in their kidneys. While small cysts do not affect the kidneys’ functioning, larger cysts push out healthy kidney tissue and cause reduced kidney function. These cysts may not be noticed until the cat reaches 7 years of age. In cases where your cat has cysts, the condition will likely be diagnosed by DNA testing.
Maine Coons can also be susceptible to heartworm, a parasitic infection that causes respiratory problems. While heartworms cannot be cured, prevention is the best way to reduce the fatality rate. While this disease is not curable, it can be prevented with proper diet and regular exercise. You can also keep an eye on your pet at all times to monitor for any of these diseases.
Maine Coons are generally healthy, but they are susceptible to genetic predispositions to certain diseases. One of these is hip dysplasia, which affects approximately 18% of Maine Coon cats. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder that causes the hip joints to degenerate. While it is not contagious in small cats, it can lead to joint pain and arthritis.
