Are Maine Coons lap cats?For many cat owners out there, these "gentle giants", as we like to call them, are one of the preferred cat species to own. They are all about the cuddles, but are Maine Coon cats lap cats? Maine Coons are famous for their kind and loving characters. Some Maine Coons love laying on their owners lap, others don't. Statistically, only 30.4% of owners claim their Maine Coons are a lap cat, with the rest stating their cat prefers to lay beside, or nearby them. On occasion, some Maine Coons will enjoy cuddles on owners laps, though in general this cat breed isn't likely to be a regular lap cat. Whilst this particular cat breed will undoubtedly get close to their owners' hearts, they might show their affection in different ways other than sitting on a person's lap. Some Maine Coons are lap cats, whilst others aren't. Understandably, many potential owners would love to know for definite if the kitten they are buying will have a tendency towards being a lap cat, or not. However, unless you are a clairvoyant, this simply isn't possible to know in the beginning. With time, love and affection though, you will soon discover your own Maine Coons personal preferences on the matter. Despite being known as one of the friendliest cat species, Maine Coons will not necessarily sit on their owner's lap. So the answer to 'are Maine Coon cats lap cats' is divided between both yes and no. They will almost certainly like to be near you, but depending upon your own individual Maine Coons personal preferences, they might not necessarily sit on your lap. What we can say with certainty, however, is that Maine Coons love the company of their human guardians, and may be tempted to rest in their laps from time to time.  Blue and white polydactyl male kitten at 4 weeks old. His parents are Wren and Roman.
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About Maine Coon PolydactylsEveryone loves a polydactyl cat! They are so unique and endearing! Did you know that early in the breed's development, Maine Coons were often polydactyls? Because of this, there is a common belief that there is still a connection between polydactyl cats and this breed. When breeding a polydactyl Maine Coon to a regular Maine Coon, 40 to 50 percent of the kittens will be polydactyl. A polydactyl Maine coon is a Maine Coon in every characteristic and with extra toes. This word means multi-toed, and the extra-large paws are nick-named double-paws, because the paws are usually double-wide in size. They can walk through snow more easily, hence another nick-name of snowshoe cat; but most often though, they are simply called polys. A natural anomaly, the polydactyl dominate gene in Maine Coons is a simple autosomal, meaning not linked to a dominate gene. The Pd gene is a harmless genetic trait that is not to be associated with other anomalies. Because of this, you must have a polydactyl parent to have a polydactyl kitten. There are no documented ill effects of the polydactyl gene in the Maine Coon cat. Much scientific research data collected has suggested that the polydactyl Maine Coon is a more preferred trait in the working breed for health and vigor. Many non-polydactyl Maine Coons have a polydactyl member of their genetic lines in their pedigrees, and breeding these polydactyl cats is still fully accepted and recognized as purebred worldwide. They can be registered with any official cat association. When looking over a Pedigree, you can see all the polydactyl Maine Coons in the pedigree because they will have a P. somewhere in the name. Why Aren't Most Maine Coons Polydactyls? Good question! This trait is not allowed in “show cats” so it is not common. Many breeders participate in showing their cats. That's a big part of what it's all about! It is unfortunate that a magnificent feline would be denied the chance to become a champion just because this trait is deemed a "fault." Because of this, there are groups and organizations with an eye to bringing Polydactyl cats back into the show ring. There are breeders who specialize in polydactyl Maine Coon cat and kittens. They are fully registered, pedigreed, purebred cats. Every bit a Maine Coon – plus some (extra toes, that is)! So there you have it, the polydactyl cat is a healthy, hearty, and endearing cat! You want one, now, right? The History of the Polydactyl Maine Coon Maine Coons come from Maine and polydactyl Maine Coons most especially show their Maine heritage visibly in their extra-wide, multi-toed paws. Descended from cats that hardy seafaring people chose, our present-day polydactyl Maine Coons are a direct visible genetic link to the beautiful heritage of maritime family life. A polydactyl Maine Coon from a Kennebec River town or village has living visible proof of its original native Maine heritage. This heritage goes back through the generations of kittens possibly 300 years or more, to the earliest Maine cats, when the polydactyl gene became intertwined with and irrevocably part of the original Maine Coon. Purified by centuries of natural selection, polydactyl Maine Coons embody the most distinct and visible proof possible of the long and esteemed heritage of this native Maine Coon breed. A polydactyl Maine coon is a Maine Coon in every characteristic and with extra toes. This word means multi-toed, and the extra-large paws are nick-named double-paws, because the paws are usually double-wide in size. They can walk through snow more easily, hence another nick-name of snowshoe cat; but most often though, they are simply called polys. The history of Maine's polydactyl Maine Coon tugs and whispers from the porches of stately sea captains homes and from memories of old ships and schooners; one wonders, how did the double-pawed cats get here? The visible heritage embodied in a polydactyl Maine Coon stems from the olden days of Maine, when hardy self-reliant families sailed and settled along the shores. The distinctly unique Maine coastal environment favored the origins of this breed. The byways, sloping shoresides, and deeper coves were launching ways for locally built schooners and other vessels. Salt-water farms lined the shores where we have forgotten now, that everyday people did business by sail with canvas and masts and wind, not trucks and gasoline. The highways of yore were the rivers and the sea. Maine has excellent deep and navigable rivers. The Kennebec River, for example, is famous for the number of vessels built and launched from its shores. The talented Maine maritime families and the vastness of the trade they dealt in are the real reason it is the Maine Coon Cat. This breed was developed in the Maine coastal regions specifically as a result of ship cats coming home to families who prized them for their usefulness aboard ship as well as on the farm and around the wharves. The years following the Revolutionary War were likely the heyday of the Maine Cats development, as the state was known for its bustling shipyards. Downeasters sailed with wheat world-wide, clippers sailed to China and back, but mostly the trusty schooners carried vital local maritime cargoes; as hundreds of various Maine-built vessels were launched every year from riverside shipyards. Cats were just as common at working waterfronts as dories, and are still to be found living free at the working waterfront area of Portland Harbor, for example. When Kennebec cargo schooners sailed to Boston and back with lumber, bricks and supplies, cats were simply on board to control rodents, and for pleasure. Boston Harbor has been scientifically designated the arrival point in this country of the polydactyl cat, and location of the first polydactyls in America. It was an easy matter for the cute poly cats to be accepted aboard the Maine-bound vessels, for luck as well as something new to share with family at home. The Boston wharfside poly cats and Maine-bound schooner cats mingled as they pleased. In this manner, the poly gene was introduced into the isolated early Maine Coon gene pool; protected as it were, by villages united only by sea or horse-drawn wagon. The early Maine Cats were able to breed pure and without dilution, and the polydactyl gene became intertwined with the other characteristics, back in the chill coastal and riverside locations, where the pure strain of Maine Coon was developed. Long-coated, rugged bodied Maine Coons naturally developed for survival, as a working cat that people treasured, and their adaptation to the cold winters and chilly ocean air resulted in eventual recognition as a legendary distinct breed. The poly Maine Coon is more adept, and often smarter, because of the increased ability that the shape of their paws gives them. Their larger paws enabled them to survive in conditions requiring them to catch their own food. Some of them always survived and to this day the dominant gene, polydactylism, continues to be present in a certain percentage of native Maine Coons. Being still visible, it is likely present in the same percentages now as in the earlier times. It can be estimated rather accurately from genetics rules that a constant minimum of 25% of early native Maine Coons would have been polydactyl, and perhaps more in some isolated locations and the many coastal islands. Thus the early Maine Cat developed into the traditional type and style still seen in todays moderate Maine Coons. These early Maine cats were known as 'Maine cats' or 'cooncat' in the mid-1800's (in a story by a celebrated Maine author of that period, whose cat named "Polly", grew up together with her.) Of course, normal-footed Maine Coon Cats developed concurrently, often as litter mates; and were the feline stars in the first CFA Cat Shows in the USA in the early 1900s.           Female and Male Maine CoonsMaine Coon cats have several nicknames that people have bestowed upon them in direct relation to their personality traits. They are called the “gentle giants” and the “dogs of the cat world”. They are very intelligent friendly cats. They are also very playful and curious. These large sized cats are outgoing and socialize well with both people and other animals. They are curious and love to interact with people and other pets. Maine Coon Size The male Maine Coon is larger than usually. The size of a full grown male Coon cat is typically 20-30 pounds, while the female averages between 10-15 pounds. The height of the male cat is 10-16 inches and be about 40 inches long. The female can stand at about 8-14 inches tall and be the same length as the male (these averages vary greatly). At the larger end of the spectrum a coon cat can easily measure 45 inches plus long and 30 lbs. Male Cats Most owners of Main Coons will agree that the males of the breed are far more outgoing than the females are. The males are larger and will go out of their way to entertain their human companions. They are comical and are typically the life of the party. The females are also quite outgoing but initially will seem a bit “cat-like” and aloof to strangers. The males are more free-wheeling and looking for a good time with everyone, friends and strangers alike are potential playmates for them. Female Cats The female Coon cats are nice to be around. They are also outgoing, once they get to know you. They are highly intelligent and playful. Both the males and the females have been described as being docile and easy to train. Both Genders They are both considered excellent “mousers”. They like to hunt and spend time being enticed to chase so it is very important that they have toys available. They are not aggressive with children or other cats, but they can certainly hold their own in an argument so it is always best to introduce them to a new cat with supervision. They are very accepting of new circumstances. If you come across a Maine Coon that is not friendly or seems to feel a bit nervous they are very likely coming from a bad situation–that’s how rare it is to find one that does not want to make friends. They are referred to as the dogs of the cat world because their size is that of a dog AND because they display dog-like traits when it comes to loyalty to their family. They will accept the whole family as their own but will be especially loyal to the person that cares for them. Overall this is a great breed that is simply a joy to be around. *Note- Each one is unique with their own personality just like children.  Maine Coon Kittens: Fun Facts About These Adorable FelinesMaine Coon kittens are undeniably one of the most adorable creatures on Earth. With their fluffy fur, tufted ears, and expressive eyes, it's hard not to fall in love with them. But did you know that these kittens have some fascinating characteristics? Here are some fun facts about Maine Coon kittens that will make you appreciate them even more. 1. Size Matters: Maine Coon kittens are known for their impressive size. They are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, and their growth rate is astonishing. At just a few months old, these kittens can already weigh as much as an adult cat from other breeds. 2. Water Lovers: Unlike most cats, Maine Coon kittens have a peculiar fascination with water. They enjoy playing with it, dipping their paws, and even joining their owners in the shower or bath. This unique trait is believed to be inherited from their ancestors, who were skilled mousers on ships. 3. Gentle Giants: Despite their large size, Maine Coon kittens have a gentle and friendly nature. They are known for their sociable behavior and get along well with other pets and children. Their affectionate and loving personality makes them a perfect addition to any family. 4. Playful Personalities: Maine Coon kittens have a playful and mischievous side. They love interactive toys, climbing trees, and exploring their surroundings. Their playful antics will keep you entertained for hours. 5. Majestic Appearance: With their long, bushy tails, tufted ears, and lynx-like facial features, Maine Coon kittens have a regal and majestic appearance. Their striking looks have earned them the nickname "gentle giants" of the cat world. Maine Coon kittens are truly remarkable creatures. Their unique characteristics, friendly nature, and stunning appearance make them a favorite among cat lovers worldwide. If you're lucky enough to have one of these adorable kittens in your life, cherish every moment with them.  Lydia, a black smoke female kitten at 5 months old. Maine Coon KittensWhen people meet your 6 month old kitten, they may be shocked that it's still a baby! Maine Coons start to level out somewhere between 9-14 months; though still growing the maturation process slows and they fill out more subtly until the age of 4 or 5 years. Some people are confused about the coat as well, as many Maine Coon cats seen in the show hall appear to have a mostly short coat, with some length and fluff around the belly and britches, and may have no noticeable ruff. These will generally be your younger adults and seen in Championship, which are cats that have not been altered. Some Maine Coons will never grow a full and luxurious coat until they have been either spayed or neutered. MC's may also vary on when they grow their "seasonal" coat, often known as full coat. Logic would suggest they be in full coat over the colder winter months, but this is not always the case. Some cats look like a domestic short hair with excess belly fur all winter and grow a long lustrous coat in May, while others are mostly bald until November when they look like they're ready to face the arctic! At what age your Maine Coon kitten starts to grow it's shaggy coat can vary greatly. Some kittens develop coat almost immediately and look like miniature MC adults at 3 or 4 months, while others will start getting britches and belly fur around 6 months and a ruff will start to fill in as late as 1 year, provided the kitten has been altered before 8 months of age. Maine Coons get their adult fur in between age 4 to 5 years old. Do not be concerned if your cat doesn't look like a Maine Coon all at once. The variations of growth patterns are as varied as they are among different families of humans. No, not all MC's will look the same, but the classic shaggy coat, square muzzle and big expressive eyes will all come together eventually, the cat will be your loving and ever-present companion! You may be initially attracted to the Maine Coon for their rugged good looks, but you'll fall in love with the personality. Maine Coons are very interactive with people. Around the ages of 6 months to a year old they can go through a stand offish faze similar to a teenager. This is called the teenager stage. As they mature they will become more like a lap cat and much more affectionate. This is usually around ages 2 to 3 years old. As a kitten they are very busy! Fun Fact: In 2010 the Guinness World Records accepted a purebred male Maine Coon as the "Longest Cat" measuring 48.5 inches from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tale.  Maine Coon TeethMaine Coon kittens are not actually born with any teeth, just like human babies are not. According to ASPCA, a Maine Coon kittens teeth will start to appear at the 3-week mark. Their permanent teeth then start to grow when a kitten reaches 3-4 months of age, starting with the middle incisors around the 14-week mark. Then the second and third incisors between 15-16 weeks How Many Teeth Do Maine Coons Have? You can expect your Maine Coon kitten to have 26 baby teeth, and an older Maine Coon to have 30 permanent adult teeth. This makes the Maine Coon breed quite similar to humans, since human babies have 20 baby teeth, and 32 permanent adult teeth! Adult Maine Coon teeth are made up of a variety of different tooth types, each with its own unique purpose, and use. MAINE COON BREED TEETH INFORMATIONIt is essential to use a Vet that is familiar with this breed. The majority of MC kittens will experience juvenile gingivitis while teething. This breed loses all baby teeth. It takes about 6 months for the adult teeth to grow in. It varies from kitten to kitten on how much swelling of the gums they experience during this process which occurs from 5 months to a year of age. Many Vets misdiagnose this as stomates or other mouth diseases and recommend pulling teeth. Do Not let them pull any teeth. Find another vet. Always get a second opinion, just like you would for your own health.
Also, some MC kittens have an enzyme in their mouth that makes the gums try to grow over the teeth as the body is rejecting the teeth. Do Not pull any teeth. The proper treatment is giving the kitten/cat Prednisone for inflammation for several weeks. In severe cases, surgery is required to remove some of the excess growth. Then give prednisone and an antibiotic. Surprisingly, the excess growth normally does not grow back. It is very unlikely that a MC kitten or young adult cat will have any kind of permanent mouth diseases that would require pulling teeth. Remember, MC Cats grow until 4 to 5 years of age, so they are just a big kitten at 1 year old. MAINE COON BREED HEALTH INFORMATIONEverything about MC Cats is large compared to other cat breeds. Head, Feet, Boning, Internal organs such as Heart and loud Heartbeat. Vets unfamiliar with the MC breed will misdiagnose murmurs. Some MC kittens will experience a juvenile murmur as the kittens grow extremely fast. If they have a murmur at all, they usually outgrow it within 6 months. A murmur is an entirely different issue from HCM which is enlargement of the heart and can be fatal. All Wildcat Creek breeders have been DNA tested for HCM and are negative for the disease. Murmurs come in 6 grades. Any murmurs Grades (1-3) are considered minor and will normally be outgrown and should not be a concern. Grades (4-6) murmurs are major murmurs and will negatively impact the kitten’s life. Wildcat Creek kittens are examined at their vet appointment for murmurs. If they have any grade minor murmur buyer will be informed, it will be noted on their health records. Any kitten with a major murmur is not sold. Normally, MC kittens/cats do not just suddenly develop a murmur. If they do not have a murmur at 3 months of age it is extremely unlikely, they will develop one, especially during the first year of growth. If your kitten is diagnosed with a murmur, get a second opinion or find a Vet familiar with this breed. The kitten did not have a murmur when you took it home.
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AuthorI'm Crystal Rhine, owner of Wildcat Creek Cattery LLC. Follow along to watch cute videos, see testimonies, cute pictures and Maine Coon information! 
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