Maine Coon

Maine Coons are huge, domesticated cats. It is one of North America's oldest natural breeds. The breed originates in Maine, the official state cat of the United States. The breed was prominent at cat exhibits in the late 1800s, but its survival was challenged when long-haired breeds from other countries were introduced in the early 1900s. Since then, the Maine Coon has made a resurgence and is currently the world's third most popular pedigreed cat breed.

The Maine Coon is a huge and gregarious cat, which may explain why it has earned the nickname "the gentle giant". The Maine Coon is most recognized for its great size and rich coat of fur, which allows the giant feline to live in the severe environment of Maine, its native state. The Maine Coon is sometimes referred to as having "dog-like" features. Because of this feline's huge size, specialists have identified various health issues appearing in the breed, such as feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia.

Maine Coons have various physical characteristics that help them survive severe winter temperatures. Their strong water-resistant hair is longer and shaggier on their underbelly and back for added protection while walking or lying on wet snow or ice surfaces. Their long, bushy raccoon-like tail resists sinking in snow and may be wrapped over their face and shoulders for warmth and protection from wind and blowing snow. When sitting on a frozen surface, it can even be wrapped over their backside like an insulated seat cushion.