Maine Coons are famous for their friendly manner, big frame, pointed ears, and a long, silky coat. They have fur that is thick and silky that one could be able to refer to them as “mane” Coons! They are among the biggest domestic cats breeds (along together with Siberians along with Ragdolls) and is referred to for being the “gentle massive.”
If you’re thinking of adopting an Maine Coon, you should know more about the breed to ensure that you take care of your cat in the most effective way. Through this post, discover details about Maine Coon’s characteristics, temperament and health issues common to all breeds, and the nutritional requirements.
Common Maine Coon characteristics
Maine Coon cats are so beloved by pet parents because of their character. The breed is very playful and extremely friendly. They are considered family-friendly due to their affection for elderly, children, other cats and cats.
While they’re usually an active and lively species, Maine Coons still like to nap a lot and they can be found napping up to 16 hours in a day. They’re most active between dawn and the dusk.
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Benefits of adopting the Maine Coon
Maine Coons are great indoor cats since they are:
Flexible–Maine Coons are simple to care for as they’re extremely capable of adapting to any conditions
A little talkative, Maine Coons tend to meow more often than many cats, making it simpler to gauge their mood and react accordingly.
Family-oriented, and extremely welcoming, Maine Coons are great to have in your home because they are able to be able to get along with any family member and pet
Smart – Being able to control and train your cat could simplify your life. Due to their ability to learn, Maine Coons are easy to train. You only need an understanding of basic feline behaviour patterns, as well as tasty snacks
Loyal: Maine Coons exhibit a number of characteristics that are dog-like, such as loyalty. The gentle giants are known to be loyal to the entire family
Although Maine Coons aren’t easy to care for however, there are some essential factors to be aware of to ensure that your pet enjoys a healthy and happy existence.
Things to be aware of
The adoption of an Maine Coon comes with specific difficulties due to this breed:
They are extremely curious. Maine Coons love to explore, and this could cause them to be in dangerous circumstances (for instance, they may take a poisonous bite or be lost). To stay safe you should keep their surroundings as secure as is possible (e.g. ensure that all hazardous substances are kept in a safe place) and monitor them when they’re outside.
It is possible to be dependent. This is the biggest drawback to Maine Coons sociable nature. They aren’t able to be left on their own for long. They are social animals and, if your work schedule prevents you from going to your house, adopting another pet may be the best option.
Needs regular grooming. The majestic Maine Coon fur needs to be regularly groomed. Similar to most domestic cats, these gentle giants suffer from a degree of shed throughout the year It is essential to take extra care of their fur to avoid the mess and hairballs that are too large. There will be more shed in the spring and fall and you’ll most likely have to groom them regularly
You must be outside, and since they are curious and active, Maine Coons love large open spaces in which they are free to roam. If you have a yard it should not be a problem but if you reside within an apartment take your cat on an outing at least once per day.
High prey drive. Cats are naturally predators and this breed isn’t any exception. Maine Coons like to chase small animals, such as mice birds, frogs and even insects. Hunting is dangerous for your cat due to the different bacteria that their prey can carry. If you’re looking for an active cat and fun like Maine Coons it is important to ensure that their food and time with their friends are in line with their needs so that they do not be compelled to hunt.
Are susceptible to specific health issues. Despite being a tough breed Maine Coons are susceptible to particular health issues
What health problems are Maine Coons suffer from?
Maine Coons can suffer from numerous hereditary ailments and health problems that are a result of lifestyle.
Genetic disorders
Maine Coons have a genetic predisposition to be afflicted by:
Heart disease – Maine Coons are prone to developing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a condition which causes wall of the heart to thicken. The symptoms to watch out for include shallow breathing coughing, extreme weight loss
Hip dysplasia – These gentle giants and other cat breeds with large sizes can be affected by hip dysplasia. It is a genetic disorder that leads to the formation that occurs in hip joints. This may lead to arthritis.
The hereditary condition known as spinal muscular atrophy can cause Maine Coons to have an abnormal posture and unstable movements
The disease is known as polycystic kidney (PKD)–Maine Coons with PKD have pockets of liquid (cysts) within their kidneys. Although the cysts appear small initially but they may expand and cause kidney failure. The signs of the condition include an increase in thirst, frequent urination and a loss of appetite.
Health issues related to lifestyle
If they’re not offered the right diet, exercise, or medical attention, Maine Coons can suffer from:
Dental problems can be result of inadequate oral hygiene and poor diet and are often characterized by a bad breath and discomfort. To avoid them, you should clean your Maine Coon’s dental teeth at least every week with an especially designed toothbrush for cats. Also, you should feed the cat food they eat to maintain their oral health. Make sure that the meals they eat contain artificial colours, sugar as well as other harmful substances.
Obesity: Cats who eat a high-calorie and excessively high-carb diet can gain excessive weight. Although chubby cats can be cute obese cats can suffer from numerous health issues and mobility problems that can make their lives difficult
Diabetes–Obese cats are often suffering from insulin resistance, which usually results in diabetes mellitus. Common signs include an increase in appetite as well as frequent urination and sudden weight loss.
The best way to make sure your Maine Coon remains healthy, happy and active is to give them a balanced and meat-based diet that is satisfies their nutritional requirements and ensure they are getting enough exercise.
What is the ideal feline diet? appear to be?
Your Maine Coon’s meals on a regular basis should contain the following essential ingredients:
Animal proteins contain amino acid chains (such such as taurine) vital for building healthy muscle structures and protecting organ health and producing antibodies. Cats should be fed only protein from animals since protein from plants don’t meet nutritional needs and aren’t easy to digest.
Fatty acids are vital to ensure coat and skin health in cats. Your cat’s diet should contain at least 20% animal fat since excessive consumption can cause obesity and other health problems.
In in the wilderness, cat are able to get the proper amount of water through the consumption of fresh-killed prey. Felines don’t have a high thirst, and therefore do not feel the need to drink to make up for the lack of moisture from their meals. Dehydration can cause a variety of ailments, such as crystals of struvite. This is the reason the cats of all breeds, not just Maine Coons, should be fed food that has a high moisture content in order to keep them hydrated.
Does Maine Coons need carbs?
Carbohydrates aren’t essential in the diet of cats because they do not have the enzymes needed to digest simple carbohydrates. Their primary source of energy comes from animal protein.
The excessive consumption of carbohydrates can cause excess weight, and may be associated with obesity problems. Fiber is beneficial if your cat has digestive issues , but be sure that carbohydrates do not exceed three percent of their diet.
Do Maine Coons be fed dry food or wet?
Although dry cat food may be easier for storage, the kibbles contain less than 10% moisture, and are loaded with sugar, carbs and other filler ingredients that pose a risk for cats over time. Regular consumption of quality wet food can keep your cat well-nourished and hydrated as the majority of wet food products contain over 70% moisture, and high quantities of animal protein and bio-available nutrients.
You can give to your Maine Coon to cat kibbles periodically to keep them entertained, but make sure that their diet is based in wet meals.
Cats can be picky eaters so your food choices must be tasty and nutritious.