One story has the cat originating as the result of the mating between a domestic cat and a raccoon. This is scientifically impossible. A more plausible origination is that the first settlers in the new world brought with them domestic cats. These cats carried the longhair gene, and through natural selection these cats' offspring that grew their hair long had a better chance of surviving the sometimes rough winters of colonial America. Whichever story you choose to believe, the Maine Coon Cat is a loving, good natured cat with a kind disposition and great intelligence.
Maines are especially good with children and dogs, and make excellent companions.
The Maine Coon is a striking breed with the distinction of being named the best cat at the first cat show held in North America. The modern Maine Coon is a large cat with the males averaging 12 to 18 pounds and females 8 to 10 pounds. The body of the Maine Coon is muscular with a broad chest and neck. When standing, the Maine Coon presents a rectangular appearance with the front and rear legs the same length. Boning of the Maine Coon is substantial with the females usually being slightly smaller than the males.