A Maine Coon can weigh as much as a small dog, keep growing for up to five years, and still chirp at you like a bird. New owners expect a huge, serious cat. They end up with a giant that follows them into the bathroom and taps the faucet.
Here is the real Maine Coon personality, trait by trait, including the one that makes some of them start wrecking furniture. It has nothing to do with being a bad cat.
Where the personality comes from
Maine Coons started as working cats, keeping barns, homes and ships free of mice through cold New England winters. They spent their days around people, so they grew comfortable with humans nearby.
On May 8, 1895, a Maine Coon named Cosey won best in show at the first major North American cat show, held at Madison Square Garden. In 1985, Maine named it the official state cat.
1. The gentle giant
Males commonly weigh 13 to 18 pounds, and some go past 20. Despite that size, most Maine Coons are patient and even-tempered, and they tend to get along with children, other cats and dogs.
2. The shadow
Most Maine Coons are not lap cats. They want to be near you, not on you. Many follow you from room to room and wait outside a closed door until you come out.
3. The voice
For such a big animal, the Maine Coon has a small voice. Many rarely meow. Instead they chirp, a short bird-like sound, and trill, a rolling “brrr” between a meow and a purr. They use these sounds to greet you, ask for food or react to birds outside. Chirp back, and many will answer.
4. The dog in a cat’s body
Many respond to their name and come when called. They can learn tricks like sit and high-five with treats or toys as rewards. Some walk on a leash, and plenty play fetch without being taught. Training only works with rewards, though. Punishment makes them stop participating.
5. The water fascination
Many Maine Coons dip their paws in the water bowl, swat at running faucets and step into the shower after you. Their thick, water-resistant coat is one likely reason. Up to 40 percent of early Maine Coons also had extra toes, which worked like snowshoes in Maine winters.
6. The forever kitten
Most house cats reach full size in about 12 months. Maine Coons keep developing for 3 to 5 years, and many stay playful for the rest of their lives.
7. Males and females differ
Males are usually more outgoing and goofy. Females tend to be more reserved and independent. Both are affectionate, so meet the kitten and ask about the parents’ temperaments.
The trait behind wrecked furniture
Maine Coons are social and intelligent. Left alone for long stretches with nothing to do, some become bored or stressed. That shows up as:
- Scratching furniture
- Knocking things off shelves
- Chewing cords
- Crying when you leave
These are signs of unmet needs, not a bad cat. Puzzle feeders, a sturdy cat tree, a window perch and daily play make a big difference. In homes where everyone is gone most of the day, a second cat can help.
Maine Coon at a glance
- Male weight 13 to 18 lb, some past 20
- Fully grown 3 to 5 years
- Voice Chirps and trills more than meows
- Good with Kids, other cats and dogs
- State cat Maine, since 1985
Is a Maine Coon right for you?
If you want a big, patient cat that talks in chirps, follows you around and stays playful for years, yes. If you want a quiet lap cat that needs little interaction, look elsewhere. Spend time with adult Maine Coons first, because a three-year-old cat shows you exactly what that kitten will grow into.
