The Maine Coon Cat is the native American longhaired cat and was recognized as a specific breed in Maine where they were held in high regard for their mousing talents. Through nature's own breeding program, this breed has developed into a sturdy cat ideally suited to the harsh winters and varied seasons of the region. The Maine Coon Cat is well known for its loving nature, kindly disposition and great intelligence. Maines are especially good with children and dogs and have always been a popular and sought after companion.

The Maine has always been admired for its beauty, and a Maine Coon was chosen Best Cat at the first major cat show ever held in this country. The transition from easygoing farm cat to CFA finalist was not an easy one, nor did it happen quickly. Although they lost favor and were conspicuously absent from shows for quite a long time, we are now seeing large classes of these beauties in most cat shows and it is not unusual for a Maine Coon to be named "Best Cat". *

Pictured above: GC, RW Thecathut's Dizzie Gillespie
CFA Great Lakes Region Top 20 Cat; CFA's Best Maine Coon 1996-97

Picture courtesy of:  Jackie & Cliff Taylor, Reynoldsburg, OH

Photo by: Chanan