If You Want a Pet Lynx, Get a Maine Coon Kitten
If you're looking for a new cat and "go big or go home" is your favorite motto, you've found your purrfect match: a Maine coon kitten.
These larger-than-life domestic cats have a unique appearance unlike that of any other breed — and a big personality to match. Just don't get one if you're scared of cougars because they can become almost as big.
First, Maine Coons Are Downright Beautiful
The breed originated in Maine if you couldn't guess by their name.
They were made to handle frigid winters with unusually lush coats and a long, fluffy tail that they use like an adorable blanket when they're chilly.
Second, They Look Like Baby Wildcats
Owning an exotic animal isn't the best idea, but the appeal of having a piece of the wild in your living room is intriguing.
Maine coons are as close as you can get to owning a wild cat, without any of the risks.
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And Are Mini Versions of the Real Thing When They Grow Up
That said, Maine coons are huge. They've been mistaken for bobcats before, and it's not hard to see why.
They're one of the largest cat breeds you can own, easily topping 15 pounds.
Who Needs a Guard Dog When You Can Have a Guard Cat?
When fully grown, Maine coons look considerably more intimidating than a baby-faced ragdoll cat.
Smoke-colored coons look more like miniature gargoyles than domestic cats (but in a good way).
Or an Entire Pack of Guard Cats
Picture this: A burglar breaks into your home in the dead of night. He walks into the living room, intent on stealing your valuables, and this is what he sees. He's not scared, but he's so confused that he walks out without taking a dime.
Maine coon cats can be an unconventional yet effective security system. Also, they come with cuddles.
Maine Coons Come in Every Imaginable Color
Maine coons have a rich history of mysterious origin stories, some with more merit than others. The most plausible is that Maine coons are descended from the Norwegian forest cat as well as an extinct domestic breed brought to New England in the 1700s.
The combination of the two led to a distinctive look but a wide variety of acceptable colors and patterns.
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Ginger? You Got It
The classic Maine coon coat is brown, like that of a raccoon, but ginger coons are a popular choice as well.
Tortie? That's an Option, Too
Torties, or tortoiseshell cats, have a distinct, mottled tri-color look with gold or green eyes.
This one is more like a living Halloween decoration than a pet.
Pure White? Why Not?
Even white Maine coons are an option. Lilac, chocolate, or pointed coons are usually avoided since they indicate the kitty has been mixed wth another breed and won't qualify as a Maine coon by the Cat Fanciers' Association.
Solid white, smoke, cream, black and a variety of bi-color, tabby and shaded patterns are all accepted.
If You're Looking for a Boring Cat, Don't Get a Maine Coon
Despite their large size, Maine coons are not couch potatoes.
They love to play, and some will learn tricks on command if you offer enough treats as incentives.
They May Be Fluffy and Cute, but They're Adventurous at Heart
This is a breed that loves to be by your side, no matter what you're doing. They'll gladly try to get involved in dishwashing duty, even if their help isn't very helpful.
They're just as likely to try to curl up on your lap, even if they don't actually fit.
Walking a Maine Coon Isn't Unheard of
Plenty of Maine coons are receptive to leash training, unlike most cat breeds, because they adore exploring the outdoors.
Training a cat to walk on a leash is much different than training a dog to do the same, but bringing your mini-lynx on hikes is 100 percent worth the effort.
And They'll Gladly Climb Trees If Given the Chance
Who needs a lynx when you can have a cat that acts like one?
The only problem is getting them back down...
There's One Major Drawback of Owning a Tiny Wildcat
This picture says it all. Maine coons are built to survive in the snow, and your carpet will pay for it.
In fact, why bother installing carpet? Your cat will install one for you.
Is It Worth It? You Tell Us
We think so.
The more cat to cuddle, the better.