If you are here, it is likely that you have a fondness for large, fluffy cats. You may also be wondering if they make excellent pets, and whether the Black Maine Coon cat, in particular, is a suitable furry companion for your household.
You have come to the right place! The Black Maine Coon is a remarkable animal and can be an excellent pet for families with children or other pets.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 10–16 inches |
| Weight: | 12–18 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11–13 years |
| Colors: | Black |
| Suitable for: | Single-family homes, homes with children, homes with other pets |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, gentle, affectionate |
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Maine Coon cats, with a particular focus on the black variation of the breed. Despite their impressive size, these beautiful felines have garnered a significant fan base due to their calm and affectionate personalities. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
The Earliest Records of Black Maine Coon Cats in History
Since the Black Maine Coon is not a distinct breed, let’s delve into the history of Maine Coon cats as a whole. The Maine Coon cat is one of the oldest feline breeds globally, native to North America, and as the name suggests, it originated in Maine.
Although the precise origin of this breed is still unknown, it is widely believed to have resulted from the breeding of Siberian domestic cats and Norwegian Forest Cats. The breed gained significant popularity towards the end of the 19th century, largely due to the accomplishments of a female Maine Coon named Cosey.
In 1895, Cosey became the first winner of the North American Cat Show held in New York.
However, long-haired breeds such as Persian cats began to overshadow the Maine Coons, leading to a decline in their popularity around 1911. The breed saw a resurgence in the 1970s and has since become the third most popular pedigree cat breed worldwide.
How Black Maine Coon Cats Gained Popularity
One of the notable milestones for the Maine Coon came in 1985 when it was recognized as one of the official state animals of Maine. This is a significant honor, as only two other states, Maryland and Massachusetts, have designated a cat as their state animal.
While Maine Coons may not have reached the level of internet fame or celebrity ownership as some other breeds, their docile nature and impressive size have certainly contributed to their popularity. Known as gentle giants, Maine Coons, despite their fierce appearance, are calm, playful, and rarely aggressive. Interestingly, they retain their kitten-like demeanor well into adulthood.
Maine Coon cats are among the largest domestic cat breeds. They are notably large compared to other breeds, such as the American Curl. Due to their substantial size, some cat enthusiasts liken them to dogs, affectionately referring to them as “the gentle giants.”
Formal Recognition of Black Maine Coon Cats
Before becoming a state symbol, the Maine Coon was recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and accepted for CFA championship status in 1976, provided the cat met specific color and size standards. The Black Maine Coon is one of the many colors and patterns recognized by the CFA, which includes four additional solid colors and various tabby, parti-color, shaded, and smoke variations.
Top 3 Unique Facts About Black Maine Coon Cats
1.A Maine Coon holds the record for the longest domestic cat in the world.
In 2010, a Maine Coon named Stewie measured an impressive 48 inches from nose to tail. Although Stewie passed away in 2013, no cat has yet surpassed this record.
2.There are four color classifications for the Black Maine Coon cat.
A Black Maine Coon can have one of four different coat color criteria: solid, bi-color, shaded and smoke, and shaded/smoke with white.
Other Popular Main Coon Colors: Grey, Orange, Tortie and White
3.All Maine Coons, including the Black Maine Coon, are built to be swimmers.
Not all cats dislike water! Maine Coons are among the few cat breeds that actually enjoy it. This trait might be rooted in their genetics, similar to polydactyly. Additionally, their water-resistant coat helps keep them warm.
Final Thoughts
Now you have a comprehensive understanding of the Black Maine Coon cat. We have covered its breed profile, origin, and various color variations. Additionally, you now possess detailed information about the breed’s health and care requirements.
So, is the Black Maine Coon the right fit for your household? We hope this information helps you make an informed decision.
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