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The '''Maine Coon''' is one of the largest [[breeds]] of domestic [[cat]], known for its high intelligence and playfulness as well as its distinctive physical appearance. The breed is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America specifically [[Endemism|native]] to the state of [[Maine]] (where it is the official State Cat<ref>Maine state cat legislative enactment: [http://janus.state.me.us/legis/statutes/1/title1sec217.html 1 M. R. S. A. &#167; 217.]''':''' The state cat shall be the Maine Coon Cat. 1985, c. 737, § A, 4, eff. April 18, 1986.</ref>). This cat is known as "Maine Coon", "coon-cat", "Maine Cat" or (colloquially) "the gentle giant".
The '''Maine Coon''' is [[breed]] of domestic [[cat]], possessing above-average intelligence and a mellow temperament. It is well known for its distinctive physical appearance and is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America specifically [[Endemism|native]] to the state of [[Maine]],<ref name=MCBFA>{{cite web|title=Breed Information|url=http://www.mcbfa.org/breedinfo.html|accessdate=2008-10-26}} ''Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association''</ref> where it is the official State Cat.


Although it is unknown about the original origins of the breed or when the Maine Coon came to the United States, many theories have been proposed. The breed was popular in cat shows in the late 1800s, but its existence became threatened when long-haired breeds from overseas were introduced in the early 20th century. The Maine Coon has since made a comeback and is now the second most popular cat breed.
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==Origin==
The Maine Coon is a natural cat breed that originated in Maine. A journal article was published about the coon-cat of the late 1800s stating: "... all of them come from Maine, simply for the reason that the breed is peculiar as yet to that State." "Coon-cats have been recognized as a distinct breed in Maine for so long that the memory of the oldest inhabitant runs back to their beginning." "You will find them in almost any village in that part of the world."<ref >Bache, Rene. "Raising Cats," ''The Saturday Evening Post'', 1/19/1901, p. 15.</ref>
[[Image:Nala.JPG|thumb|left|200 px]]
The Maine cat was recognized as a distinct breed of cat long ago and known as the "coon-cat" in the mid 1800s prior to the Civil War in recorded history and documented early descriptions of the Maine cat by a well known and celebrated Maine author who lived in that era prior to 1850.<ref>Simpson, Frances. ''The Book of the Cat''. Cassell and Company Ltd., 1903; Ch. 3, Concerning Cats, 'coon-cat', pp.52-56. [LC Call No.: SF447.S62]</ref>


The Maine Coon is generally noted for its large bone structure, its rectangular body shape, and a long, flowing coat. The breed can be seen in a variety of colors and are known for their gentle personalities.<ref name=ACFA>{{cite web|title=Maine Coon Synopsis|url=http://www.acfacat.com/maine_coon_synopsis.htm|accessdate=2008-10-26}} ''[[American Cat Fanciers Association]]''</ref> Health problems, such as [[feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]] and [[hip dysplasia (canine)|hip dysplasia]] are commonly seen in the breed, but testing is available to detect the genes responsible for causing these abnormalities.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, domestic cats brought over on ships faced very severe winters in [[Maine]], where only the strongest and most adaptable cats survived. "[[Natural selection]] (and climate) has had a significant effect on (longhair/Maine Coon) gene frequency in the 200-300 generations since domestic cats were introduced to America."<ref>Andrew T. LLoyd, Geographic distribution of mutant alleles (longhair gene) in domestic cat populations of New England and the Canadian Maritimes. [http://www.jstor.org/stable/pdfplus/2844864.pdf Journal of Biogeography] (1985) '''12''', 15-322, abstract.</ref> The Maine Coon developed outdoors into a large, rugged cat with a water-resistant, thick, longhair coat and a hardy constitution. The fur coat developed outdoors into a coat that is particularly unique and distinct from other long-hair breeds.<ref name=faq/>


== Folklore ==
==History==
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[[Image:Maine Coon 2.JPG|thumb|right|220 px| Face of a 2-year-old male Maine Coon]]
The origin of the breed (and its name) has several, often fantastic, folklore surrounding it - all coming from Mainers' story-telling and dry sense of humor. One tale comes from this journal account of actual story-telling in 1901 by the down east locals.


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===Origin===
"Strange to say, there are comparatively few people south or west of New England who know what a coon-cat is. If you ask that question 'down in Maine,' however, the citizens will seem surprised at your ignorance, and will explain to you, in a condescending way, that the creature in question is half raccoon -- the descendant of 'a cross between a 'coon and a common cat.'"<ref>Bache, Rene. "Raising Cats," The Saturday Evening Post, 1/19/1901, p. 15, &#182;. 2.</ref> Though biologically impossible, this false story was the result of Mainers' good old leg-pulling and the gullibility of tourists. According to that 1901 account (as you can see), these cats were still referred to as "coon-cats".


It is unknown how and when the Maine Coon first came to the United States.<ref name=Iams>{{cite web|title=Iams Cat Breed Guide - Maine Coon Cats|url=http://www.iams.com/iams/en_US/jsp/IAMS_Page.jsp?pageID=CBD&breedPage=maincoon.html|accessdate=2008-10-26}} ''[[Iams]]''</ref> There are only theories and folktales. One such folktale includes that of [[Marie Antoinette]], the [[Queen of France]], who was executed in 1793. Before her death, Antoinette attempted to escape France with the help of Captain Samuel Clough. She loaded Clough's ship with her most prized possessions, including six of her favorite long-haired cats. While Antoinette did not make it to the United States, her pets safely reached the shores of [[Wiscasset (town), Maine|Wiscasset]], Maine, where they bred with other short-haired breeds and evolved into the modern breed of the Maine Coon.<ref name=MCR>{{cite web|title=History, Legends and Myths of the Maine Coon|url=http://www.mainecoonrescue.net/history.html|accessdate=2008-10-26}} ''Maine Coon Rescue''</ref>
A related story is that the cat was named after a ship's captain named Coon who was responsible for the cat reaching Maine shores. This story comes from a Mainer named Molly Haley (prior to 1820) as her oral history<ref>"Coon-cat" name oral history: Bruce, Roberts, “Coon Cats”, ''Portland Evening Express newspaper, 'we hear' column'', 7/23/1986 </ref> of the cat’s name that was published in this 1986 Maine newspaper article.


[[Image:Stunning White Maine Coon.JPG|thumb|left|Rare all white Maine Coon]]
[[Image:Maine Coon 2.JPG|thumb|left|220 px|The face of a 2-year-old male Maine Coon]]
Another folktale involves that of Captain Charles Coon, who kept a mass amount of long-haired cats aboard his ship to keep the rodent population under control. Whenever Coon's ship would anchor in the [[New England]] ports, the felines would exit the ship and mate with the local [[feral]] cat population, returning to the ship and giving birth months later. These new cats were named "Coon's cats". Like the Marie Antoinette fable, this story is highly unlikely and not much evidence has been found to support it, but the Maine State Library has a listing of a captain by the name of Coon.<ref name=CaptainCoon>{{cite web|title=Maine Coon Breed|url=http://www.best-cat-art.com/maine-coon-breed.html|accessdate=2008-10-27}} ''Best Cat Art''</ref>
(Born 1911 Lida Tarbox) "Her father's account of the Maine Coon goes back to his great-grandmother, Molly Haley, who lived on the Haley farm next to the Tarboxes', just up from the 'pool,' or gut where the Saco River and the Atlantic Ocean meet. This was before Maine became a state (1820) and when the four-masted schooners hauled cargo to Maine from around the world.


A theory which is biologically-based, albeit impossible, is the idea that the modern Maine Coon descended from ancestors of semi-feral domestic cats and [[raccoons]]. This could have possibly explained the most common color of the breed (brown tabby) and the bushy tail, which is a characteristic trait. Another idea is that the Maine Coon originated between the matings of domestic cats and wild [[bobcats]], which could explain the tufts of hairs that are so commonly seen on the tips of the ears.<ref name=Simpson>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Mike and Trish|title=The Maine Coon: America's Native Longhair|url=http://www.mcbfa.org/article1.html|accessdate=2008-10-27}} ''Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association''</ref> There have been reports of domestic cats breeding with bobcats.<ref name=Hybrids>{{cite web|last=Link|first=Russell|date=2007|title=Living with Wildlife: Bobcats|url=http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/bobcats.htm|accessdate=2008-10-27}} ''Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife''</ref>
A cabin boy named Tom Coon, from which the 'coon' cat purportedly gets its name, worked aboard the sailing vessel Glen Laurie. One of his jobs when ashore was to collect cats, which were then used to rid the sailing vessel of wharf rats. On one of these rat-catcher expeditions, Tom smuggled in a beautiful longhair. The safe harbor for both the first coon and her subsequent litter was the Tarbox farm at Biddeford Pool, where the Glen Laurie anchored to take on supplies at the Cutts store at the Pool. When the cabin boy became a captain, he continued to bring the exotic long-hairs to the farm during his ocean voyages." (Documentation of a whaling Captain Coon and his ocean-going family exists in the Maine State Library.)


Many breeders believe that the Maine Coon is descended from the pairings of local short-haired domestic cats and long-haired breeds brought overseas by English seafarers (possibly by Captain Charles Coon) or 11th-century [[Vikings]].<ref name=Simpson/> The connection to the Vikings is noted through the strong resemblence of the Maine Coon to that of the [[Norwegian Forest Cat]], another breed which is said to be descendents of cats that traveled with the Vikings.<ref name=Backgrounder>{{cite press release|title=Backgrounder: The Maine Coon Cat|date=2008-09-28|url=http://www.maineattraction.info/uploads/PressMC.pdf|accessdate=2008-10-27}} ''Maine Attraction Cat Fanciers''</ref>
Another story is a legend from an island dwelling mainer that the breed sprang from pet cats that Marie Antoinette sent to Wiscasset, Maine when she was planning to escape from France during the French Revolution. This story is told in "The Legend of Rosalind of Squam Island".<ref name="rosalind">Google Book: Maine Writers Research Club, [http://books.google.com/books?hl=en&id=IqvKJzXfq_cC&dq=%22maine+writers+research+club%22&printsec=frontcover&source=web&ots=zD9o8Wr3k_&sig= ''Maine My State, Rosalind of Squam Island''] (The Legend of Marie Antoinette's cats), p221, 1919.</ref>


===Cat shows and popularity===
Nevertheless, most breeders today believe that the breed originated in matings between perhaps pre-existing shorthaired domestic cats and overseas longhairs.<ref name=faq/> Maine Coons are similar in appearance to both the [[Norwegian Forest Cat]] and to the [[Siberian (cat)|Siberian]].


The first Maine Coon to be mentioned in literature was in 1861, when a black-and-white Maine Coon by the name of Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines was written about by co-owner F.R. Pierce. Pierce, who wrote a chapter about the breed in Frances Simpson's ''The Book of the Cat'' (1903), owned several other Maine Coons.<ref name=The Book of the Cat>{{cite book|last=Simpson|first=Frances|title=Chapter 28: Maine Cats.|publisher=Cassell & Company, Limited|date=1903|pages=325–331|url=http://www.russianblue.us/Book_of_the_Cat/TBOC_Ch28_Maine_Cats.pdf|accessdate=2008-10-27}} ''The Book of the Cat''</ref> During the late 1860s, farmers located in Maine would tell stories about their cats and hold the "Maine State Champion Coon Cat" contest at the local [[Skowhegan]] Fair.<ref name=CFA>{{cite web|title=Breed Article: Maine Coon|url=http://www.cfainc.org/breeds/profiles/articles/maine.html|accessdate=2008-10-26}} ''[[Cat Fanciers' Association]]''</ref>
==Physical characteristics==
{{citations missing|section|date=November 2008}}
[[Image:travismainecoon.jpg|thumb|right|Typical tabby Maine Coon. Notice the ''ruff'' around neck and chest.]]
Maine Coons are very large and energetic cats, sometimes weighing up to around {{convert|25|lb|kg}}; the average weight is {{convert|13|lb|kg}} to {{convert|20|lb|kg}} for adult males and {{convert|7|lb|kg}} to {{convert|11|lb|kg}} for females. Males may grow to a length in excess of {{convert|40|in|cm}}, (measured from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail); as of 2006, the longest cat on record is a male Maine Coon measuring {{convert|48|in|cm}} in length. This cat weighed in at {{convert|35|lb|kg}}.<ref> Allred, Alexandra Powe. [http://books.google.com.sg/books?id=RPzOPvR_b6EC&pg=PA216&lpg=PA216&dq=maine+coon+leo+world+record&source=web&ots=3UFQ5ttrsM&sig=-RWJb15zV2_JbOdaMZrs0ezGZH4&hl=en Cats' Most Wanted:] The Top 10 Book of Mysterious Mousers, Talented Tabbies and Feline Oddities. p216. 2005. Brassey's. ISBN 1574888587</ref> Growth to full size often takes longer than for most cats, with Maine Coons usually reaching full size at age four or five.


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[[Image:Фото кунов.jpg|thumb|right|Three show-quality Maine Coons]]
The most common color/pattern in the breed is brown tabby.<ref>Helgren, J. A. (1997). Barron's encyclopedia of cat breeds: A complete guide to the domestic cats of North America. Hauppauge, NY: Barron's Educational Series.</ref><ref name=ACFA>{{cite web|title=Maine Coon Synopsis|url=http://www.acfacat.com/maine_coon_synopsis.htm|accessdate=2008-10-24}} ''[[American Cat Fanciers Association]]''</ref> Maine Coons are recognized in all colors, including [[Tortoiseshell cat|tortoiseshell]], except for chocolate, lavender, ticked tabby, and the point-restricted ("Siamese") pattern. Eye colors include green, green-gold, or gold eyes. Blue eyes, or one blue eye with one gold eye, are possible in white coat cats. Some share similar facial markings, for example, a distinct "M" shape on the forehead.
On May 8, 1895, the first North American cat show was hosted at [[Madison Square Garden]] in [[New York City]]. A female Maine Coon brown tabby, named Cosey, was entered into the show. Owned by Mrs. Fred Brown, Cosey won the silver collar and medal and was named Best in Show.<ref name=Foundation>{{cite web|title=The CFA Foundation|url=http://cfa.org/org/cfa-foundation.html|accessdate=2007-10-27}} ''Cat Fanciers Association''</ref> Cosey was not only the first Maine Coon to win first place in a national cat show, she was the first cat to ever win an official award. The silver collar won by Cosey was purchased by the [[Cat Fanciers' Association]] (CFA) Foundation with the help of a donation from the National Capital Cat Show. The collar is housed at the CFA Central Office in the Jean Baker Rose Memorial Library.<ref name=CFA/> Maine Coons subsequently became popular in cat shows in New York and a dozen Maine Coons were entered into a show in [[Boston]] in 1878.<ref name=CatChannel>{{cite web|title=Kitten History: Maine Coon|url=http://www.catchannel.com/kittens/breed_history/maine_coon_kitten_history.aspx|accessdate=2008-10-28}} ''CatChannel.com''</ref>


In the early 1900s, the Maine Coon's popularity began to decline with the introduction of other long-haired breeds, such as the [[Persian (cat)|Persian]], which originated in the [[Middle East]]. The last recorded win by a Maine Coon in a national cat show for over 40 years was recorded in 1911 at a show in [[Portland, Oregon]]. The breed was rarely seen after that. The decline was so severe that the breed was declared extinct in the 1950s, although this declaration was considered to be exaggerated and reported prematurely. The Central Maine Cat Club (CMCC) was created in the early 1950s by Alta Smith and Ruby Dyer in attempts to increase the popularity of the Maine Coon. For 11 years, the CMCC held cat shows and hosted exhibitions of photographs of the breed and by 1963, the amateur organization became so large that it was forced to shut down. The CMCC is noted for creating the first written breed standards for the Maine Coon.<ref name=CFA/>
[[Image:Zico - Maine Coon with tufts of fur behind his ears.jpg|thumb|left|200 px|Maine Coon with tufts of fur behind ears, summer coat.]]
Maine Coons have medium-long, dense fur, with longer hair, or a ''ruff'', on their chests similar to the [[mane]] of a [[lion]] (which is why the breed is sometimes humorously called the "Mane Coon"). Their fur consists of two layers—an [[undercoat]] and an additional layer of longer [[guard hair]]s—which gives the breed their key physical feature. The fur is generally very soft. Maine Coons have long hair on the backs of their legs (called pantaloons or britches) and between their toes which helps to keep them warm in the cold. They also have bushy plumed tails and broad, angular heads, squared-off muzzles and large, wide-set ears topped with tufts of fur (known as 'Lynx-tips'). Their tails can be so bushy that the Maine Coon has earned the nickname the 'tail with a cat attached to it'.


The Maine Coon was denied provisional breed status by the CFA three times, which led to the formation of the Maine Coon Cat Club in 1973. The breed was finally accepted by the CFA under provisional status on May 1, 1975 and was approved for championship status on May 1, 1976. The next couple of decades saw a rise in popularity of the Maine Coon, with championship victories and an increase in national rankings. In 1985, the state of Maine announced that the breed would be named the official State Cat.<ref name=State>{{cite web|title=Title 1, &#167; 217: State Cat|url=http://janus.state.me.us/legis/statutes/1/title1sec217.html|accessdate=2008-10-26}} The state cat shall be the Maine Coon Cat. ''Maine State Legislature''</ref> The Maine Coon is the second most popular cat breed, according to the amount of kittens registered with the CFA.<ref name=CFA/>
Most Maine Coons keep their fur in good order without the need for additional human grooming. Some Maine Coons may have tufts of fur growing from behind their ears on the sides of their heads. The appearance of these tufts can change over time, sometimes appearing quite large and sometimes being not all that noticeable.


==Breed description==
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[[Image:Ashesrey95reduced.jpg|thumb|right|Illustrating the size difference between a mixed breed female (left) and a male Maine Coon (right).]]
While the Maine Coon may be [[Polydactyl cat|polydactyl]] (having one or more extra toes on their paws), this trait is not yet available in show cats—only in pet cats. This trait is finding a world-wide resurgence and is increasingly popular, as it seems to some, that the polydactyl Maine Coon exhibits even more dexterity and intelligence than the normal-footed. They are nick-named "snowshoe cat" because they can walk through snow more easily, but most often though, they are simply called polys. Polydactyl bloodlines have long been, and continue to be, registered to preserve this trait of the breed. Modern show types are rarely polys. Polydactyls are indeed behind many show champions around the world. The show type "breeds" still ignore the Maine Coon Polydactyl Standard and has culled this vast poly portion of the original gene pool (characteristics and features) from the show types. The original polydactyl incident was estimated to be around 40%. Centuries ago it was highly likely that a polydactyl cat from Maine would be a Maine Coon. Polydactylism was (and still is) a distinct visible indicator of a coon-cat's original, natural Maine heritage. Native Maine origin coon-cats still exist and are essential to the health and survival of the breed.


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[[Image:Ashesrey95reduced.jpg|thumb|right|Illustrating the size difference between a mixed breed female (left) and a male Maine Coon (right)]]
In a mating of heterozygous parents, the kittens are 25% normal-footed, 50% heterozygous for polydactyly, 25% homozygous for polydactyly on average.<ref>Danforth, C. "Heredity of polydactyly in the cat". ''Journal of Heredity'', (1947) '''38''', 107.</ref>
Maine Coons are one of the largest breeds of domestic cat. Males can weigh anywhere between {{convert|10.5|and|22|lb|kg}} with females weighing between {{convert|7|and|14|lb|kg}}. The height of adults can vary between {{convert|10|and|16|in|cm}} and they can reach a length of up to {{convert|40|in|cm}}, including the tail, which can reach lengths of up to {{convert|14|in|cm}}<ref name=RoyalCanin>{{cite web|title=Maine Coon: A Gentle Giant|url=http://www.royalcanin.us/brochures/maine_coon_31_brochure.pdf|accessdate=2008-10-31}} ''[[Royal Canin]]''</ref> and is long, tapering, and heavily furred. A bushy tail like this is thought to have come in handy during cold winter nights in the New England area.<ref name=Tail>{{cite journal|last=Morgan|first=Diane|title=Living Large|journal=Popular Cats Series|volume=2|pages=14–21|url=http://www.catchannel.com/Magazines/popular-cats/popular-cats-maine-coon.aspx|publisher=BowTie Magazines}} Retrieved on 2008-11-07. ''Maine Coons''</ref> The body is solid and muscular, which is necessary for supporting their own weight, and the chest is broad. Maine Coons possess a rectangular body shape and are slow to physically mature; their full potential size is normally not reached until they are around three- or four-years-old.<ref name=CFF>{{cite web|title=Maine Coon Cat|url=http://www.cffinc.org/pdf/MAINECOON.pdf|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Cat Fanciers Federation''</ref>


In 2006, the ''[[Guinness World Records]]'' named a male purebred Maine Coon the "Longest Cat". Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red (better known as Leo) measures {{convert|48|in|cm}} in length, from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail, and weighs {{convert|35|lb|kg}}. He resides with his owner, Frieda Ireland, in [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]].<ref name=Leo>{{cite web|title=Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red|url=http://www.verismocat.com/htmscripts/leo-guinness.htm|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Verismo Cat''</ref>
==Behavioral characteristics==


The Maine Coon is considered a semi-longhaired, or medium-haired, cat. The coat is soft and silky, although texture may vary with coat color. The length is shorter on the head, neck, and shoulders and longer on the stomach and flanks. Although not required, there is usually a noticeable "ruff" of fur surrounding the neck and upper chest of the Maine Coon. The coat is waterproof and lies against the body of the animal. Minimal grooming is required for the breed, compared to other long-haired breeds, as their coat is mostly self-maintaining due to a light-density undercoat. The coat is subject to seasonal variation,<ref name=ACFAStandard>{{cite web|title=The ACFA Maine Coon Standard|url=http://www.acfacat.com/maine_coon_standard.htm|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''American Cat Fanciers Association''</ref> with the fur being thicker in the winter and thinner during the summer. The Maine Coon has extra tufts of fur growing between the toes and the tips of the ears.
{{citations missing|section|date=November 2008}}
Maine Coons are a breed distinguished by high intelligence, dexterity, and playfulness. They have a tendency to use their front paws extensively (often curling the paw round to pick objects up) and as a consequence will easily learn to open cabinet doors, turn on water faucets, flush toilets, or pick up small objects. Some Maine Coons will eat, or even drink, from their paws, rather than from the bowl itself.


[[Image:Maine Coon tufts.JPG|thumb|left|200 px|Maine Coon with typical Lynx-tips]]
[[Image:travismainecoon.jpg|thumb|left|Notice the "ruff" around the neck and chest of this tabby Maine Coon]]
Maine Coons can be seen in all colors with the exception of those indicating hybridization, such as chocolate, lavender, the [[Siamese (cat)|Siamese]] pointed patterns or the "[[Tabby cat#Descriptions|ticked]]" patterns. Such colors are unaccepted by breed standards.<ref name=CFA/> The most common color seen in the breed is brown [[Tabby cat|tabby]].<ref name=PetPlace>{{cite web|title=Choosing a Maine Coon|url=http://www.petplace.com/cats/choosing-a-maine-coon/page1.aspx|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''PetPlace.com''</ref> All eye colors are accepted under breed standards, with the exception of the occurrence of blue-colored or odd-eyes (i.e., two eyes of different colors) in cats possessing coat colors other than white.
Because of their above-average intelligence, Maine Coons are known to be one of the easiest cat breeds to train. Maine Coons are noted for their ability to trill their [[Cat communication|meows]], which sounds like a combination of a purr and a meow, and they tend to make this sound when happy or startled. When they do meow, it tends to be very high in pitch, in comparison to other breeds. They are noted for rarely eating alone, preferring to eat in the company of other cats or humans. Maine Coons are not known to be "lap cats" but of course, this may depend on the individual cat and some may prefer laps.<ref name="faq">The Maine Coon: Cat [http://www.fanciers.com/breed-faqs/maine-coon-faq.html Breed FAQ.] Cat Fanciers. Retrieved on: January 18, 2008</ref>


Many of the original Maine Coon cats that inhabited the New England area possessed a trait known as [[polydactylism]] (having one or more extra toes on the feet).<ref name=Fanciers>{{cite web|title=The Maine Coon: Cat Breed FAQ|url=http://www.fanciers.com/breed-faqs/maine-coon-faq.html|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Cat Fanciers''</ref> This trait is thought to have occurred in approximately 40% of the Maine Coon population in Maine at one time, but little evidence has been given to substantiate this claim.<ref name=Poly>{{cite web|title=Information & Articles relating to the Maine Coon Polydactyl Cat|url=http://www.mcpi.org/n_polyarticles.html|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Maine Coon Polydactyl International''</ref> Polydactylism is rarely, if ever, seen in Maine Coons in the show ring since it is considered unacceptable by competition standards.<ref name=Poly2>{{cite web|last=King|first=Lucinda|title=So What Happened to the Maine Coon Polydactyl?|url=http://www.mcpi.org/n_whathappened.html|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Maine Coon Polydactyl International''</ref> The gene for polydactylism is considered a simple [[autosomal]] dominant gene,<ref name=PolyGene>{{cite web|last=Grindell|first=Susan|title=Summary|url=http://www.mcpi.org/polydactyl_summary.htm|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Maine Coon Polydactyl International''</ref> which has shown to pose no threat the the cat's health.<ref name=GeneEffects>{{cite web|last=Grindell|first=Susan|title=The effects of Polydactyly|url=http://www.mcpi.org/polydactyl_effects.html|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Maine Coon Polydactyl International''</ref> The trait was almost eradicated from the breed due to the fact that it was an automatic disqualifier in show rings.<ref name=PolyIncidents>{{cite web|last=Grindell|first=Susan|title=Incidence in the Original Breed Population and Today|url=http://www.mcpi.org/polydactyl_incidence.htm|accessdate=2008-11-02}} ''Maine Coon Polydactyl International''</ref> Private organizations and breeders were created in order to keep polydactylism in Maine Coons from disappearing.
Some Maine Coons enjoy playing with, but not usually in, water. They may dip toys in their water bowls before playing with them, or just tip the water bowl over. They may also skim their paws across the surface of their water bowl or dunk their paw in and drink water from their paws.


Maine Coons are known as the "gentle giants"<ref name=ACFA/> and possess above-average intelligence, making them relatively easy to train.<ref name=Training>{{cite journal|last=Robins|first=Sandy|title=Training Day|journal=Popular Cats Series|volume=2|pages=118–125|publisher=BowTie Magazines}} Retrieved on 2008-11-07. ''Maine Coons''</ref> They are known for being loyal to their family and cautious—albeit not mean—around strangers, but are independent and not clingy.<ref name=Tail/> The Maine Coon is generally not known for being a "lap cat" but their gentle disposition makes the breed relaxed around dogs, other cats, and children. They are playful throughout their lives, with males tending to be aloof and females generally possessing more dignity.<ref name=Fanciers/> Many Maine Coons have a fascination with water<ref name=Tail/> and some theorize that this personality trait comes from their ancestors, who were aboard ships for much of their lives.<ref name=Iams/>
Maine Coons can be very dog-like in their behavior. Playing fetch is a favorite game. As with dogs, they will bring their ball, drop it at the feet of their intended playmate and wait for the ball to be thrown. They will often accompany their owner on chores like getting the mail, walking the dog, and may also come when beckoned, even if outside. Maine Coons are typically very calm and listen to their owners.


==Health topics==
==Health==
⚫
[[Image:Stunning White Maine Coon.JPG|thumb|right|An all-white Maine Coon.]]
Maine Coons are generally healthy and hardy. They thrive on better brands of cat foods and sometimes adding fish oils to the diet helps keep their coat and skin in top health. However, they are often quite picky. Maine Coon breeders have worked hard over many years to produce hardy, healthy and beautiful kittens. Almost all knowledgeable Maine Coon breeders are able to avoid health problems because of significant new advances in veterinary medical testing<ref name="testing">[http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsVCGL/felineTests.aspx Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy] Genetic Mutation Testing Service for Cats. Washington State University. Retrieved on: January 18, 2008</ref> in recent years. Past problems did include [[hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]], [[hip dysplasia (canine)|hip dysplasia]], for a brief time: [[polycystic kidney disease]] (continues to be rare), and typical feline conditions such as gum inflammation or [[luxating patellas]] (are non-breed specific, and may occur in any feline.)
Maine Coons are generally a healthy and hardy breed and have evolved to survive the New England climate.<ref name=Maine>{{cite web|title=All About Maine: State Symbols|url=http://www.maine.gov/sos/kids/allabout/symbols/cat.htm|accessdate=2008-11-20}} ''Maine.gov''</ref> The most severe threat is [[Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy|feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]] (HCM), the most common heart disease seen in cats which is genetically inherited. A specific strain of HCM is predominantly seen in Maine Coons and can be fatal but testing services are offered.<ref name=Cardiomyopathy>{{cite web|title=Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Genetic Mutation Testing Service for Cats|url=http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsVCGL/felineTests.aspx|accessdate=2008-11-20}} ''[[Washington State University]]''</ref> Of all the Maine Coons tested for the MyBPC mutation at the Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine located at [[Washington State University]], one-third tested positive.<ref name=WSU>{{cite web|title=Frequently Asked Questions about the test for the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation|url=http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsvcgl/FAQ.aspx|accessdate=2008-11-21}} ''Washington State University''</ref>


Another common health problem is [[spinal muscular atrophy]] (SMA), another genetically inherited disease which causes the loss of the neurons in the spinal cord that activate the skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. Symptoms are normally seen within 3–4 months of age and result in muscle atrophy, muscle weakness, and a shortened life span. A test is offered to detect the genes responsible for SMA.<ref name=MCBFAHealth>{{cite web|title=MCBFA Health Information & References|url=http://www.mcbfa.org/healthfiles.html|accessdate=2008-11-20}} ''Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association''</ref>
⚫
[[Image:Фото кунов.jpg|thumb|right|Three show-quality Maine Coons]]
Mutation in the gene that codes for cardiac myosin binding protein C has been shown to cause [[Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]] in one particular genetic line of the Maine Coon cat population.<ref name="testing" /> Because this line is very popular with show-hobby breeders, approximately one third<ref>[http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsvcgl/FAQ.aspx Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Genetic Mutation Statistics.] Washington State University Testing Service for Cats.</ref> of Maine Coon cats tested for the mutation have tested positive, and have been removed from the breeding population, although this population sampling is most likely biased, because the high percentage of cats tested were related to that particular line. Breeders now use the latest DNA sampling methods to improve the breed and ensure its excellent future. Many healthy and hardy Maine Coon lines now exist and the future of the breed is extremely bright.


[[Hip dysplasia (canine)|Hip dysplasia]], an abnormality of the hip joint which can cause crippling lameness and arthritis, is commonly seen in Maine Coons. In a research survey finalized by the [[Orthopedic Foundation for Animals]] (OFA) in 2007, comprising at least 100 evaluations for each breed studied between January 1974 and December 2007, Maine Coons ranked number 26 at 23.1% for 959 evaluations. The Maine Coon is the only cat breed listed in the survey.<ref name=OFA>{{cite web|title=Hip Dysplasia Statistics|url=http://www.offa.org/hipstatbreed.html|accessdate=2008-11-21}} ''[[Orthopedic Foundation for Animals]]''</ref>
Until 1988, [[taurine]] deficiency was a common cause of dilated cardiomyopathy in all cats, including Maine Coons.<ref >Google Book: Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats, [http://books.google.com/books?id=aqeCwxbRWvsC&pg=PA135&lpg=PA135&dq=+%22taurine+deficiency+in+cats%22&source=web&ots=Lza-rTFtvL&sig=NHsNRO5JD6ByxnXgmLrckiPzuwQ&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=8&ct=result Taurine deficiency in cats''] p135. </ref> Since the pet food industry started adding more taurine to [[cat food]] in the late 1980s, this kind of cardiomyopathy is rare. Taurine-related cardiomyopathy can be cured with the addition of the nutrient to the diet, but genetic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes a permanent thickening of the left ventricle and is not curable.


[[Polycystic kidney disease]] (PKD) is a slowly progressive disease that is prevalent among Maine Coons and was thought to plague only the Persian and Persian-related breeds. Symptoms typically occur around seven years of age and the effects are incurable. PKD generally leads to [[renal failure]] and is genetically inherited, so careful screening and testing are the only ways to prevent the disease from occurring.<ref name=MCBFAHealth/>
As with all breeds, well [[outcrossing|outcrossed]] pedigrees that are outcrossed in the early generations and outcrossed further in later generations are important to vitality, disposition, and longevity.

⚫
==Further reading==
⚫
* Sharyn P. Bass, ''This is the Maine Coon Cat''. T.F.H. Publications Inc., Neptune City, New Jersey. 1996. ISBN 0-87666-867-8
⚫
* Marilis Hornidge, ''That Yankee Cat: The Maine Coon''. Tilbury House Publishers, Gardiner, Maine. 2002. ISBN 0-88448-243-X
⚫
* Carol Himsel Daly D.V.M. and Karen Leigh Davis ''Maine Coon Cats (Complete Pet Owner's Manual)''. Barron's Educational Series, 2006 ISBN 0-76413-402-7
⚫
* Tracey K. Hayman, ''Main Coon Cat''. Interpret Publishing, 2001, ISBN 1-84286-011-9
* Frances Simpson, ''The Book of the Cat''. Cassell and Company Ltd., 1903, p.325-341 [LC Call No.: SF447.S62]


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}

⚫
==Further reading==
⚫
* Bass, Sharyn P. (1983). ''This Is the Maine Coon Cat''. Neptune City, New Jersey: T.F.H. Publications. ISBN 0-87666-867-8.
⚫
* Daly, Carol Himsel; Davis, Karen Leigh (2006). ''Maine Coon Cats''. Hauppauge, New York: [[Barron's Educational Series]]. ISBN 0-76413-402-7.
⚫
* Hayman, Tracey K. (2001). ''Maine Coon Cat''. Dorking, England: Interpret Publishing. ISBN 1-84286-011-9
⚫
* Hornidge, Marilis (2002). ''That Yankee Cat: The Maine Coon''. Gardiner, Maine: Tilbury House. ISBN 0-88448-243-X.


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons|Maine Coon}}
{{commons|Maine Coon}}
{{Wiktionary|Maine Coon}}
{{Wiktionary|Maine Coon}}

* [http://www.polytrak.net PolyTrak]Maine Coon Polydactyl Tracking Database
* [http://mainecoonbc.org/ Cat Fanciers' Association Maine Coon Cat Breed Council]
⚫
* [http://www.verismocat.com/htmscripts/leo-guinness.htm Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red] 2006 Guinness World Record Holder
* [http://www.mcbfa.org/ Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association]
* [http://www.cffinc.org/umcca/main.htm United Maine Coon Cat Association]
⚫
* [http://www.verismocat.com/htmscripts/leo-guinness.htm Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red], 2006 Guinness World Record holder for "Longest Cat".


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Revision as of 00:47, 22 November 2008

Maine Coon
Other namesCoon Cat
Maine Cat
OriginUnited States
Breed standards
CFAstandard
FIFestandard
TICAstandard
ACFstandard
ACFA/CAAstandard
GCCFstandard
Domestic cat (Felis catus)

The Maine Coon is breed of domestic cat, possessing above-average intelligence and a mellow temperament. It is well known for its distinctive physical appearance and is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America specifically native to the state of Maine,[1] where it is the official State Cat.

Although it is unknown about the original origins of the breed or when the Maine Coon came to the United States, many theories have been proposed. The breed was popular in cat shows in the late 1800s, but its existence became threatened when long-haired breeds from overseas were introduced in the early 20th century. The Maine Coon has since made a comeback and is now the second most popular cat breed.

The Maine Coon is generally noted for its large bone structure, its rectangular body shape, and a long, flowing coat. The breed can be seen in a variety of colors and are known for their gentle personalities.[2] Health problems, such as feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia are commonly seen in the breed, but testing is available to detect the genes responsible for causing these abnormalities.

History

Origin

It is unknown how and when the Maine Coon first came to the United States.[3] There are only theories and folktales. One such folktale includes that of Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, who was executed in 1793. Before her death, Antoinette attempted to escape France with the help of Captain Samuel Clough. She loaded Clough's ship with her most prized possessions, including six of her favorite long-haired cats. While Antoinette did not make it to the United States, her pets safely reached the shores of Wiscasset, Maine, where they bred with other short-haired breeds and evolved into the modern breed of the Maine Coon.[4]

The face of a 2-year-old male Maine Coon

Another folktale involves that of Captain Charles Coon, who kept a mass amount of long-haired cats aboard his ship to keep the rodent population under control. Whenever Coon's ship would anchor in the New England ports, the felines would exit the ship and mate with the local feral cat population, returning to the ship and giving birth months later. These new cats were named "Coon's cats". Like the Marie Antoinette fable, this story is highly unlikely and not much evidence has been found to support it, but the Maine State Library has a listing of a captain by the name of Coon.[5]

A theory which is biologically-based, albeit impossible, is the idea that the modern Maine Coon descended from ancestors of semi-feral domestic cats and raccoons. This could have possibly explained the most common color of the breed (brown tabby) and the bushy tail, which is a characteristic trait. Another idea is that the Maine Coon originated between the matings of domestic cats and wild bobcats, which could explain the tufts of hairs that are so commonly seen on the tips of the ears.[6] There have been reports of domestic cats breeding with bobcats.[7]

Many breeders believe that the Maine Coon is descended from the pairings of local short-haired domestic cats and long-haired breeds brought overseas by English seafarers (possibly by Captain Charles Coon) or 11th-century Vikings.[6] The connection to the Vikings is noted through the strong resemblence of the Maine Coon to that of the Norwegian Forest Cat, another breed which is said to be descendents of cats that traveled with the Vikings.[8]

Cat shows and popularity

The first Maine Coon to be mentioned in literature was in 1861, when a black-and-white Maine Coon by the name of Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines was written about by co-owner F.R. Pierce. Pierce, who wrote a chapter about the breed in Frances Simpson's The Book of the Cat (1903), owned several other Maine Coons.Cite error: The <ref> tag has too many names (see the help page). During the late 1860s, farmers located in Maine would tell stories about their cats and hold the "Maine State Champion Coon Cat" contest at the local Skowhegan Fair.[9]

Three show-quality Maine Coons

On May 8, 1895, the first North American cat show was hosted at Madison Square Garden in New York City. A female Maine Coon brown tabby, named Cosey, was entered into the show. Owned by Mrs. Fred Brown, Cosey won the silver collar and medal and was named Best in Show.[10] Cosey was not only the first Maine Coon to win first place in a national cat show, she was the first cat to ever win an official award. The silver collar won by Cosey was purchased by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) Foundation with the help of a donation from the National Capital Cat Show. The collar is housed at the CFA Central Office in the Jean Baker Rose Memorial Library.[9] Maine Coons subsequently became popular in cat shows in New York and a dozen Maine Coons were entered into a show in Boston in 1878.[11]

In the early 1900s, the Maine Coon's popularity began to decline with the introduction of other long-haired breeds, such as the Persian, which originated in the Middle East. The last recorded win by a Maine Coon in a national cat show for over 40 years was recorded in 1911 at a show in Portland, Oregon. The breed was rarely seen after that. The decline was so severe that the breed was declared extinct in the 1950s, although this declaration was considered to be exaggerated and reported prematurely. The Central Maine Cat Club (CMCC) was created in the early 1950s by Alta Smith and Ruby Dyer in attempts to increase the popularity of the Maine Coon. For 11 years, the CMCC held cat shows and hosted exhibitions of photographs of the breed and by 1963, the amateur organization became so large that it was forced to shut down. The CMCC is noted for creating the first written breed standards for the Maine Coon.[9]

The Maine Coon was denied provisional breed status by the CFA three times, which led to the formation of the Maine Coon Cat Club in 1973. The breed was finally accepted by the CFA under provisional status on May 1, 1975 and was approved for championship status on May 1, 1976. The next couple of decades saw a rise in popularity of the Maine Coon, with championship victories and an increase in national rankings. In 1985, the state of Maine announced that the breed would be named the official State Cat.[12] The Maine Coon is the second most popular cat breed, according to the amount of kittens registered with the CFA.[9]

Breed description

File:Ashesrey95reduced.jpg
Illustrating the size difference between a mixed breed female (left) and a male Maine Coon (right)

Maine Coons are one of the largest breeds of domestic cat. Males can weigh anywhere between 10.5 and 22 pounds (4.8 and 10.0 kg) with females weighing between 7 and 14 pounds (3.2 and 6.4 kg). The height of adults can vary between 10 and 16 inches (25 and 41 cm) and they can reach a length of up to 40 inches (100 cm), including the tail, which can reach lengths of up to 14 inches (36 cm)[13] and is long, tapering, and heavily furred. A bushy tail like this is thought to have come in handy during cold winter nights in the New England area.[14] The body is solid and muscular, which is necessary for supporting their own weight, and the chest is broad. Maine Coons possess a rectangular body shape and are slow to physically mature; their full potential size is normally not reached until they are around three- or four-years-old.[15]

In 2006, the Guinness World Records named a male purebred Maine Coon the "Longest Cat". Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red (better known as Leo) measures 48 inches (120 cm) in length, from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail, and weighs 35 pounds (16 kg). He resides with his owner, Frieda Ireland, in Chicago, Illinois.[16]

The Maine Coon is considered a semi-longhaired, or medium-haired, cat. The coat is soft and silky, although texture may vary with coat color. The length is shorter on the head, neck, and shoulders and longer on the stomach and flanks. Although not required, there is usually a noticeable "ruff" of fur surrounding the neck and upper chest of the Maine Coon. The coat is waterproof and lies against the body of the animal. Minimal grooming is required for the breed, compared to other long-haired breeds, as their coat is mostly self-maintaining due to a light-density undercoat. The coat is subject to seasonal variation,[17] with the fur being thicker in the winter and thinner during the summer. The Maine Coon has extra tufts of fur growing between the toes and the tips of the ears.

Notice the "ruff" around the neck and chest of this tabby Maine Coon

Maine Coons can be seen in all colors with the exception of those indicating hybridization, such as chocolate, lavender, the Siamese pointed patterns or the "ticked" patterns. Such colors are unaccepted by breed standards.[9] The most common color seen in the breed is brown tabby.[18] All eye colors are accepted under breed standards, with the exception of the occurrence of blue-colored or odd-eyes (i.e., two eyes of different colors) in cats possessing coat colors other than white.

Many of the original Maine Coon cats that inhabited the New England area possessed a trait known as polydactylism (having one or more extra toes on the feet).[19] This trait is thought to have occurred in approximately 40% of the Maine Coon population in Maine at one time, but little evidence has been given to substantiate this claim.[20] Polydactylism is rarely, if ever, seen in Maine Coons in the show ring since it is considered unacceptable by competition standards.[21] The gene for polydactylism is considered a simple autosomal dominant gene,[22] which has shown to pose no threat the the cat's health.[23] The trait was almost eradicated from the breed due to the fact that it was an automatic disqualifier in show rings.[24] Private organizations and breeders were created in order to keep polydactylism in Maine Coons from disappearing.

Maine Coons are known as the "gentle giants"[2] and possess above-average intelligence, making them relatively easy to train.[25] They are known for being loyal to their family and cautious—albeit not mean—around strangers, but are independent and not clingy.[14] The Maine Coon is generally not known for being a "lap cat" but their gentle disposition makes the breed relaxed around dogs, other cats, and children. They are playful throughout their lives, with males tending to be aloof and females generally possessing more dignity.[19] Many Maine Coons have a fascination with water[14] and some theorize that this personality trait comes from their ancestors, who were aboard ships for much of their lives.[3]

Health

An all-white Maine Coon.

Maine Coons are generally a healthy and hardy breed and have evolved to survive the New England climate.[26] The most severe threat is feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart disease seen in cats which is genetically inherited. A specific strain of HCM is predominantly seen in Maine Coons and can be fatal but testing services are offered.[27] Of all the Maine Coons tested for the MyBPC mutation at the Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine located at Washington State University, one-third tested positive.[28]

Another common health problem is spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), another genetically inherited disease which causes the loss of the neurons in the spinal cord that activate the skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. Symptoms are normally seen within 3–4 months of age and result in muscle atrophy, muscle weakness, and a shortened life span. A test is offered to detect the genes responsible for SMA.[29]

Hip dysplasia, an abnormality of the hip joint which can cause crippling lameness and arthritis, is commonly seen in Maine Coons. In a research survey finalized by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) in 2007, comprising at least 100 evaluations for each breed studied between January 1974 and December 2007, Maine Coons ranked number 26 at 23.1% for 959 evaluations. The Maine Coon is the only cat breed listed in the survey.[30]

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a slowly progressive disease that is prevalent among Maine Coons and was thought to plague only the Persian and Persian-related breeds. Symptoms typically occur around seven years of age and the effects are incurable. PKD generally leads to renal failure and is genetically inherited, so careful screening and testing are the only ways to prevent the disease from occurring.[29]

References

  1. ^ "Breed Information". Retrieved 2008-10-26. Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association
  2. ^ a b "Maine Coon Synopsis". Retrieved 2008-10-26. American Cat Fanciers Association
  3. ^ a b "Iams Cat Breed Guide - Maine Coon Cats". Retrieved 2008-10-26. Iams
  4. ^ "History, Legends and Myths of the Maine Coon". Retrieved 2008-10-26. Maine Coon Rescue
  5. ^ "Maine Coon Breed". Retrieved 2008-10-27. Best Cat Art
  6. ^ a b Simpson, Mike and Trish. "The Maine Coon: America's Native Longhair". Retrieved 2008-10-27. Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association
  7. ^ Link, Russell (2007). "Living with Wildlife: Bobcats". Retrieved 2008-10-27. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
  8. ^ "Backgrounder: The Maine Coon Cat" (PDF) (Press release). 2008-09-28. Retrieved 2008-10-27. Maine Attraction Cat Fanciers
  9. ^ a b c d e "Breed Article: Maine Coon". Retrieved 2008-10-26. Cat Fanciers' Association
  10. ^ "The CFA Foundation". Retrieved 2007-10-27. Cat Fanciers Association
  11. ^ "Kitten History: Maine Coon". Retrieved 2008-10-28. CatChannel.com
  12. ^ "Title 1, § 217: State Cat". Retrieved 2008-10-26. The state cat shall be the Maine Coon Cat. Maine State Legislature
  13. ^ "Maine Coon: A Gentle Giant" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-10-31. Royal Canin
  14. ^ a b c Morgan, Diane. "Living Large". Popular Cats Series. 2. BowTie Magazines: 14–21. Retrieved on 2008-11-07. Maine Coons
  15. ^ "Maine Coon Cat" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-11-02. Cat Fanciers Federation
  16. ^ "Verismo Leonetti Reserve Red". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Verismo Cat
  17. ^ "The ACFA Maine Coon Standard". Retrieved 2008-11-02. American Cat Fanciers Association
  18. ^ "Choosing a Maine Coon". Retrieved 2008-11-02. PetPlace.com
  19. ^ a b "The Maine Coon: Cat Breed FAQ". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Cat Fanciers
  20. ^ "Information & Articles relating to the Maine Coon Polydactyl Cat". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Maine Coon Polydactyl International
  21. ^ King, Lucinda. "So What Happened to the Maine Coon Polydactyl?". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Maine Coon Polydactyl International
  22. ^ Grindell, Susan. "Summary". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Maine Coon Polydactyl International
  23. ^ Grindell, Susan. "The effects of Polydactyly". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Maine Coon Polydactyl International
  24. ^ Grindell, Susan. "Incidence in the Original Breed Population and Today". Retrieved 2008-11-02. Maine Coon Polydactyl International
  25. ^ Robins, Sandy. "Training Day". Popular Cats Series. 2. BowTie Magazines: 118–125. Retrieved on 2008-11-07. Maine Coons
  26. ^ "All About Maine: State Symbols". Retrieved 2008-11-20. Maine.gov
  27. ^ "Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Genetic Mutation Testing Service for Cats". Retrieved 2008-11-20. Washington State University
  28. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions about the test for the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation". Retrieved 2008-11-21. Washington State University
  29. ^ a b "MCBFA Health Information & References". Retrieved 2008-11-20. Maine Coon Breeders & Fanciers Association
  30. ^ "Hip Dysplasia Statistics". Retrieved 2008-11-21. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

Further reading

  • Bass, Sharyn P. (1983). This Is the Maine Coon Cat. Neptune City, New Jersey: T.F.H. Publications. ISBN 0-87666-867-8.
  • Daly, Carol Himsel; Davis, Karen Leigh (2006). Maine Coon Cats. Hauppauge, New York: Barron's Educational Series. ISBN 0-76413-402-7.
  • Hayman, Tracey K. (2001). Maine Coon Cat. Dorking, England: Interpret Publishing. ISBN 1-84286-011-9
  • Hornidge, Marilis (2002). That Yankee Cat: The Maine Coon. Gardiner, Maine: Tilbury House. ISBN 0-88448-243-X.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Maine Coon.
Look up Maine Coon in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maine_Coon&oldid=253302112"