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Maine Coon Breed Facts and Information
Updated on November 12th, 2025
The Maine Coon, often called the “gentle giant” of the feline family, is one of the world’s most beloved cat breeds. With their affectionate yet playful personalities, these cats have captured cat parents’ hearts across the U.S. and beyond.
Temperament
Friendly, affectionate, playful
Colors
Many, including tabby, white and calico
WEIGHT12–22 pounds
HEIGHT10-16 inches
LIFE EXPECTANCY12-15 years
Maintenance Level
Low Maintenance
High Maintenance
Friendliness
Reserved
Extroverted
About Maine Coons
Maine Coon Appearance
Thanks to their size, coat and luxurious bushy tail, Maine Coons are easily recognizable. These features aren’t just for show. Maine Coons developed in the harsh climates of New England, and their fur and build helped them survive snowy winters.
Build: Strong, substantial
Face: Expressive oval or almond-shaped eyes, ear tufts
Coat: Shaggy, water-resistant double coat
Colors: They come in nearly every color and pattern imaginable, from classic brown tabby to solid white or calico.
Size & Weight
The Maine Coon is one of the largest domestic cat breeds. They typically grow more slowly than other breeds, taking up to four years to fully mature.
Full Grown
Female
10 in. / 15 lbs.
Male
16 in. / 22 lbs.
Height is measured up to the shoulders.
Maine Coon Characteristics
With proper care, these gentle giants typically live 12 to 15 years, and many reach their late teens with regular veterinary visits, a balanced diet and plenty of enrichment. As kittens, Maine Coons have steady growth, bursts of playful energy and a gradual transition into their large, sturdy adult form.
- Size & Coat
- Lifestyle
How to Care for a Maine Coon
Maine Coon cats can make themselves right at home in family households with lots of activity and love.
Cost of Owning
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Fun Facts
In 1985, the Maine Coon was officially named the state cat of…yep, Maine!
A Maine Coon named Mrs. Norris starred in the Harry Potter films.
Maine Coons may carry a trait for polydactylism, which results in extra toes but is usually harmless.
A Maine Coon has even set a Guinness World Record! In 2010, Stewie was measured at 48.5 inches from nose to tail tip, making him the longest domestic cat on record.
History
With their substantial size, the Maine Coon could be considered the superhero of cats, and like every good superhero, they have an origin story. In fact, they have several! Some legends of the Maine Coon’s ancestry suggest they descended from seafaring Viking cats, while others link them to long-haired cats brought over by early European sailors. What’s clear is that the breed developed naturally in Maine, where their sturdy build and thick coat made them well suited to farm life.