The first published reference to a Maine Coon comes from 1861 and was about a black-and-white cat named Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines.

A female Maine Coon was named Best Cat in 1895 at a cat show held in Madison Square Garden. In Boston and New York, the home-grown felines were popular exhibits at cat shows, and when the Cat Fanciers Association was formed in 1908, the fifth cat registered was a Maine Coon named Molly Bond. The Maine Coon is one of the few original cat breeds. All other breeds came from a combination of the original breeds bred together. The invasion of glamourous Persian and exotic Siamese cats from England around the turn of the century spelled the end of the Maine Coon's popularity for about five decades. Things took a turn for the better in the 1960s, and the Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association was formed in 1968. Today these big, beautiful cats are among the world's most popular breeds. But what really counts, of course, is that they are the official state cat of Maine.

MALE

The male Maine Coon cat is usually bigger physically than the females. Many people claim that males can be a bit more “snuggly” than females. (However, it is our Queens who sleep with us) Males are very social and they love to hang out near their humans. Maine Coons do need stimulation and plenty of play time. They are curious cats that love people. Males do need a bit more territory and are most happy with plenty of vertical space to climb and hang out.

FEMALE

As stated above females can be a bit smaller than the males; it may not seem like much but a few pounds and an inch or two can be a big difference, especially if you live in a smaller space. Females can be a bit more cautious when it comes to “letting loose” around people. Females are outgoing, funny and friendly. Both of our current Queens love to play fetch with us

The good-natured and affable Maine Coon adapts well to many lifestyles and personalities. They like being with people and have the habit of following them around, but they aren't needy. They're happy to receive attention when you direct it their way, but if you're busy, they're satisfied to just supervise your doings. They also retain their skills as a mousers. No rodents will be safe in a home where a Maine Coon resides. Even if you don't have any mice for them to chase, they'll keep their skills sharp by chasing toys and grabbing them with their big paws. Many Maine Coons enjoys playing fetch and will retrieve small balls, toys, or wadded-up pieces of paper. Maine Coons are very smart and will happily learn tricks or play with puzzle toys that challenge their brain. Maine Coons often enjoy a kittenish love of play well into adulthood. Males, especially, are prone to silly behavior. Females are more dignified, but they aren't above a good game of chase. Not especially vocal, they make any requests with their signature soft chirp or trill.

Despite the length of the Maine Coon's coat, it has a silky texture that doesn't mat easily—if you groom it regularly. It is easily cared for with weekly combing to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. Useful grooming tools include a stainless steel comb for removing tangles and a slicker brush. Use it gently, especially in the stomach area and on the tail. Maine Coons are patient, but they don't like having their hair pulled any more than you do. Bathe a Maine Coon as needed, if their coat feels greasy or their fur looks stringy.

Brush the teeth to prevent periodontal disease. Trim the nails every couple of weeks. If needed, wipe the corners of their eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove any discharge. Check the ears regularly. If they look dirty, wipe them out with a cotton ball or soft damp cloth moistened with a 50-50 mixture of cider vinegar and warm water. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the interior of the ear.

Keep the Maine Coon's litter box spotlessly clean. Cats are very particular about bathroom hygiene, and a clean litter box will help to keep the coat clean as well.

High Country Maine Coons are to be kept as an indoor-only cats to protect them from diseases spread by other cats, attacks by dogs or feral animals, and the other dangers that face cats who go outdoors, such as being hit by a car. Maine Coons who go outdoors also run the risk of being stolen by someone who would like to have such a beautiful cat without doing their research or making the investment.

The friendly, laid back Maine Coon is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs.

They love the attention they receive from children who treat them politely and with respect. Maine Coons typically harness train with ease if started early and enjoy family outings. Introduce pets very slowly and in controlled environments to ensure success.