All You Need To Know
Owning a Maine Coon In Malaysia
Maine Coon cats, often referred to as the “gentle giants” of the cat world, are one of the most beloved and distinctive breeds. Known for their impressive size, luxurious fur, and friendly demeanour, they have captured the hearts of cat lovers around the globe.
As responsible parents (pawrents), we highly encourage our clients to do ample research on their future furkids. From diets to enrichment and lifestyle, we believe that it is the parent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids.
This article will delve into the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why these cats make fantastic pets.
Breed overview
Personality | Friendly, affectionate, social, loyal and playful |
Weight | Up to 9 kgs |
Length | Up to 102 cm |
Coat length | Long hair |
Coat color | Black, white, blue (gray), red (orange) and cream |
Coat patterns | Solid, tabby, bicolor, tortoiseshell, torbie, smoke, shaded and calico |
Eye color | Green, gold, copper, blue and odd-eyed |
Lifespan | Up to 15 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Origin | North America |
Characteristics
Maine Coons are large, sociable cats known for their long, shaggy fur, tufted ears, and bushy tails. They have expressive eyes and come in various colors and patterns. Intelligent, playful, and affectionate, they are often described as “dog-like” due to their loyalty and friendly nature, making them excellent companions.
Affection level | High |
Friendliness | High |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | High |
Exercise needs | Medium |
Playfullness | High |
Energy level | High |
Trainability | High |
Intelligence | High |
Tendency to Vocalize | Moderate to High |
History & Origin
The Maine Coon cat, one of North America’s oldest natural breeds, originates from Maine. Legends about their history include the myth of a cross between domestic cats and raccoons, and the story of Marie Antoinette’s pet cats being sent to America. More likely, Maine Coons descended from longhaired cats brought by European seafarers that interbred with local shorthaired cats.
Grooming & Care
Despite their long fur, Maine Coons are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming compared to other longhaired breeds. Here are some grooming and care tips:
Health Issues
Maine Coons are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure their well-being. Some common health issues include:
Diet and Nutrition
Maine Coons require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:
Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.
PS: Here are the answers to all the questions on Petchef’s meals you might possibly have. 😉
Living with a Maine Coon
They are adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to large homes. Here are some tips for living with them:
Where to Adopt or Buy Maine Coon
In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing one:
- Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While they might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
- Breeders: Look for reputable Maine Coon breeders in Malaysia. Ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association and follow ethical breeding practices. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
- Online Platforms: Websites and online forums dedicated to pets often have listings for Maine Coon kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Maine Coons available for adoption or sale.
Use Diligence
When adopting or purchasing a Maine Coon, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.
Conclusion
Maine Coon cats are beloved for their large size, gentle temperament, and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors. With proper care, a balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, and plenty of love, they can lead happy, healthy lives. Adopting or purchasing a Maine Coon will bring joy and companionship for years to come.
| Pros of Maine Coon Cats | Cons of Maine Coon Cats |
|---|---|
Affectionate, social and great for families | Grooming needs for thick, semi-long fur |
Intelligent and Playful | Larger size and space requirements |
Highly Adaptable | Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia |
FAQs
Most common questions about Maine Coons asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.
How much is a Maine Coon cat in Malaysia?
Starts from RM2500 to RM6000 or more if bred by reputable breeders.
Are Maine Coon cats good with kids?
Maine coons are typically friendly, affectionate, and patient cats, which can make them excellent companions for children.
Why are Maine Coons so special?
Maine Coon cats are special due to their large size, distinctive appearance, friendly temperament, intelligence, rich history, and overall hardiness.
Are Maine Coon cats high maintenance?
Maine Coon cats can be considered somewhat high maintenance due to their need for regular grooming to manage their long, thick fur and their requirement for mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Article sources:
- Demographics of hip dysplasia in the Maine Coon cat: April 2017Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 20(4):1098612X1770555
- Obesity in cats: VCA Animal Hospitals
