The large, sturdy American forest cat, known as the Maine Coon, likely arrived in America with European immigrants. Without any breeding intervention, the cats adapted over time to the inhospitable living conditions. Their dense, medium-long, water-repellent fur with a thick undercoat protected them from the cold during the harsh, snowy winters of the Northern United States. In the hot summers, however, they wear a lighter "summer coat" without a ruff. The Maine Coon's trademark is its long, bushy tail, reminiscent of a raccoon. This is the origin of its name, derived from the raccoon and the New England state of Maine.

The Maine Coon had to be strong and muscular because it had to hunt for its own food; their owners often had little to spare for survival themselves. "Robust farm cat" is perhaps the most accurate description of the Maine Coon, which was affectionately called the "Shaggycat" by its owners. The most magnificent specimens were presented at agricultural shows as early as 1860. In 1895, the best cat at North America's first official cat show at Madison Square Garden in New York City was a Maine Coon neuter named Cosie.

A Decline and Resurgence

As increasingly exotic breeds like the Siamese or Persian were introduced to the USA, interest in this down-to-earth provincial beauty waned, and the Maine Coon was largely forgotten. It wasn't until the 1950s that the breed experienced a revival. In 1953, "The Central Maine Cat Club" was founded; the Maine Coon received an official standard and show status, appearing more frequently at exhibitions. It experienced a rapid upswing, with many enthusiasts succumbing to the subtle charm of these bear-like, good-natured "gentle giants."

Eventually, the Maine Coon returned to the "Old Continent" from which it had once set out to conquer the New World. As an expensive imported cat, it entered European show halls—at first only occasionally, then in great numbers. The ice was broken, and the skeptical European community of pedigree cat lovers recognized the "new" old breed from the States as an equal. During its triumph in the 1990s, it filled exhibition halls more than any other cat breed.

Challenges of Popularity

However, no victory comes without its downsides. As the breed's popularity grew and the demand for kittens skyrocketed, the number of breeders increased accordingly. Unfortunately, the goals of preserving original characteristics—such as health, coat quality, and colors—were too often neglected. By crossbreeding with other breeds like Persians and Colourpoints, the Maine Coon type was diluted. Kittens with "pointed" markings (like Siamese) began appearing in Maine Coon litters.

The truly large cat—with adult males weighing a proud 9 to 10 kg and females 5 to 6 kg without being overfed—became smaller and more delicate due to unwise breeding. For a time in its short breeding history, the typical Maine Coon seemed almost lost. Hereditary diseases were introduced into the otherwise healthy breed through careless breeding, including:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A heart condition that can lead to sudden, early death.

• Hip Dysplasia (HD): Which causes movement difficulties similar to those seen in affected dog breeds.

Preserving the Legacy

Fortunately, it was realized just in time that the breed must be preserved in its pure, natural, original beauty, away from fleeting fashion trends. Responsible breeders who truly care about the Maine Coon are well aware of this today. They can confirm the health of their breeding animals to prospective buyers through relevant veterinary test results.