How to Identify a Maine Coon Cat

Maine Coons are medium or large cats averaging 12-18 pounds with big ears, broad chest, substantial boning, a long, hard-muscled, rectangular body, and a long flowing tail. They come in every color and pattern except pointed (like a Siamese).

Females are proportionally smaller than males and can weigh 4 to 5 pounds less. Mature males can have larger, broader heads than females. The fur coat appears shaggy; fur is shorter on the front legs and over the shoulders, becoming gradually longer down the back and sides, with long, full shaggy britches and belly fur, giving an overall image of a big cat with long hair.

Fur is very soft and silky; the glossy coat is heavy and water-resistant. Tails are usually bushy, long, and flowing (about the same length as the body of the cat) and sometimes ringed like a raccoon tail. Feet have long tufts of fur growing out between the paw pads. They may have a ruff (like a lion's ruff) of fur around their neck. Ears are large, wide at the base, moderately pointed, and well tufted inside (fur growing out of the ears), set high on their head, approximately one ear width apart. Sometimes ears have lynx tips (fur growing up from the ends of the ears, like a Lynx). Maine Coon eyes are large and expressive. Their muzzle is usually square and box-like.

Some Maine Coons have a feral (wild) look and appear hostile. This is misleading; Maine Coons have very friendly and playful temperaments. They have clown-like personalities and affectionate nature; they seek out and enjoy the company of people. They make excellent companions for large, active families that also enjoy having dogs and other animals around. Their dispositions remain kittenish throughout their lives; they are big, gentle, good-natured goofs. Voices are often "tiny" with musical-sounding trills and chirps, often sounding birdlike. Maine Coons are usually very talkative.

Cats in rescue/shelter situations may be traumatized by their experiences in a new, strange or frightening environment. Their normal personalities may not be obviously apparent. Time, consistent love, and gentleness will win out. If you have it in your heart and you have the patience and time, please consider rehabilitating a rescued Maine Coon cat or kitten.

Characteristics of the Maine Coon Cat

Head: Broadhead, prominent cheekbones
Muzzle: Boxy
Ears: Large, high, one ear's width apart, tufts, lynx points
Eyes: Slightly oval, gold to green in color
Body: Long, rectangular, substantial boning and musculature and large tufted feet
Tail: Long, bushy, flowing tail
Fur: Heavy and shaggy, shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach and britches. Frontal ruff is partial to full. The texture is all-weather, smooth along the body.

The link below has comparisons among several breeds:

Cat Comparisons