Maine Coon Cats – Gentle Giants or So I’ve Been Told
I didn’t know anything about Maine Coons until 2018. I remember the first time I heard about them—it was while driving for Uber in Sydney. I was chatting with a passenger, and they mentioned having a Maine Coon. I’d never heard of the breed before, and I was curious. Little did I know, this encounter would be the start of my fascination with these majestic cats. Over the years, through conversations with passengers, I’ve learned a lot about Maine Coons, and I’ve come to really appreciate everything about them.
First Impressions: Big and Bold
One of the first things people always tell me about Maine Coons is their size. They’re known for being one of the largest domestic cat breeds, and the pictures I’ve seen of them definitely back that up. These cats can easily weigh anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds, with some even reaching up to 30 pounds. But it’s not just their weight that makes them stand out—it’s their length. From nose to tail, some Maine Coons can be over a meter long!
When you see a Maine Coon in person, it’s easy to mistake them for something much wilder, maybe even ferocious. They have these broad faces, long, bushy tails, and a coat that seems almost regal. Honestly, they look like mini lions, with their tufted ears and mane-like fur around their necks. But as I learned, looks can be deceiving. Despite their fierce appearance, Maine Coons are famously gentle. They have a calm and friendly temperament, which has earned them the nickname “gentle giants.”
Ragdoll Cats – they seek attention
Burmese Cats – they have been called ‘dog-cats’
What makes a human a Cat-Lover?
Teaching Commands to Your Maine Coon
Built for the Cold: Survivors of Winter
I’ve met a few Uber passengers who lived in colder parts of the world, and every time Maine Coons came up, they’d talk about how well-suited these cats are to winter weather. It makes sense when you look at them—their thick, double-layered coat seems like it was designed to withstand icy winds and snow. Originally, Maine Coons come from the northeastern U.S., where winters can be brutal. Their long, dense fur helps keep them warm, while their tufted paws act like natural snowshoes, making it easier for them to walk on snow.
One story I heard really stuck with me. A passenger from Canada told me that their Maine Coon loved being outside, even in the winter. They’d build snow tunnels in the backyard, and the cat would follow along like it was completely at home. It’s incredible to think of a domestic cat thriving in such harsh conditions, but it’s clear that Maine Coons are built for it.
Water-Lovers
Now, this one surprised me the most—Maine Coons actually like water! I don’t know about you, but most cats I’ve come across in my life wouldn’t go near water unless they absolutely had to. Maine Coons, on the other hand, are different. They’re fascinated by water and often enjoy playing with it. I’ve heard stories of them splashing their paws in water bowls or even following their owners into the shower.
One passenger told me that their Maine Coon loved sitting by the edge of the bathtub while they were in it. The cat would dip its paws into the water, as if it was testing it out. Another told me their Maine Coon would sit by the sink, watching the water run with such intense curiosity that it was almost like a game for the cat. It’s such a unique trait, and it makes Maine Coons stand out even more as a breed.
Vocal and Sociable
Another characteristic of Maine Coons that I’ve come to learn is that they love to talk. They’re incredibly vocal cats, but not in the way that some people might think. Instead of loud meows, Maine Coons tend to make these soft, almost chirping noises. It’s their way of communicating, and from what I’ve gathered, it’s not just about getting attention—they seem to genuinely enjoy interacting with people.
A few Uber passengers shared stories about how their Maine Coons would “talk” to them throughout the day, following them from room to room, chirping away as if they were having a conversation. I think this vocal nature adds to their charm. It’s almost like they’re aware of their size and want to balance it out with gentleness and sociability.
Maine Coons are known for being very people-oriented. They’re not the type of cat to hide away when guests come over or to shy away from attention. Instead, they like to be in the thick of things, engaging with the people around them. One person told me their Maine Coon would greet them at the door when they got home from work, much like a dog. I found that endearing, and it speaks to how connected these cats can be with their owners.
Gentle Giants
What I’ve found most fascinating about Maine Coons is the contrast between their appearance and their personality. With their large size and wild look, it would be easy to assume they’re fierce or hard to manage. But from what I’ve heard from so many people, they are anything but. They are gentle, loving, and incredibly patient cats.
One passenger described their Maine Coon as being almost dog-like in its loyalty and affection. They’re known to be great with children, other pets, and even strangers. Their gentle nature, combined with their intelligence and adaptability, makes them an ideal companion for many types of households. They’re playful but not overly demanding, affectionate but not clingy. It’s clear that Maine Coons have a unique blend of qualities that make them stand out in the world of cats.
My Thoughts on Maine Coons
Personally, I find Maine Coons absolutely stunning. Every time I see a picture of one, I’m struck by how regal they look. With their tufted ears, big eyes, and thick fur, they have this majestic quality about them. And while their size and wild appearance might make them seem intimidating, I love the fact that they’re actually gentle and affectionate.
I think that’s what makes Maine Coons so special—they are a perfect balance of strength and gentleness. They have the ability to survive harsh winters, they’re fascinated by water, they’re vocal and love to engage with their humans, but at the end of the day, they just want to be close to the people they care about. It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to them, and why, after learning so much about them, I’ve come to admire them too.
In the end, Maine Coons are much more than just big cats with beautiful fur. They are a breed full of personality, charm, and an unspoken wisdom. From what I’ve learned over the years, they’re not just pets; they’re companions, always ready to engage, explore, and share their lives with the people around them.
What do these people (celebrities) have to say about Maine Coons?
Nicole Kidman and Ginger (her Maine Coon)
Martha Stewart and her Maine Coon/s