Temperament
The
Maine Coon is not an excessively vocal cat. It does chirp a lot
especially when holding conversations with its humans. It is an
extremely affectionate cat, however its affection may be restricted to
just a few people and it can be wary of strangers. Usually a Maine Coon
can be found in very close proximity to its loved humans often just
quietly sitting nearby but ready at a moments notice to move when its
person does. A trait this breed displays is the enjoyment of greeting
its owners with head-to-head rubbing. Many breeds will butt their owners
hands, but the Maine Coon likes to jump onto something so it can butt
its head against their owner's chin or forehead, much like they would
greet other cats.
Affectionate, intelligent, playful, curious
and gentle are all words used by owners to describe their Maine Coon.
Kittens can be mischievous and naughty at times but as they mature the
Maine Coon is a relaxed laid back cat although throughout their lives
they still have a kitten-like ability to have the occasional
entertaining mad moment.
Maine Coons are noted for their acceptance of other pets and children.
Coat
The fur is long although it varies in length as opposed to the Persians bushy all-one-length coat. The fur on the shoulders is shorter, gradually increasing in length along the back and sides ending in full britches and long shaggy belly fur. An undercoat is carried making the breed double coated. Tufts in and on the ears are a feature, and the feet are also heavily furred with tufts even on the bottom of their paws making them look like they are walking in snow-shoes. The tail is the Maine Coon's pride and joy. It is plumy and shaggy. Maine Coons do not need the intensive grooming that most other long haired breeds do although they should be brushed about once a week.
Colour
All recognised colours, tabbies, solids, with white...the list goes on. All possible colours except the pointed (siamese) colour.
Overall
The Maine Coon is a long rectangular cat. It is muscular, well boned with a medium (both length and width) head and a square muzzle.
