These breeds all formed in harsh climates in which natural selection pressures for similar qualities. It is not relatedness that makes them look similar to the Norwegian and Siberian Forest cats, but convergent evolution. The Maine Coons are descendants of cats brought to New England by Puritan settlers in the 1600-1700s, and out of the European cats they are genetically closest to cats found in the United Kingdom. This Western European branch also contains the Norwegian and Siberian Forest cat, but they fall under a different sub-branch. However, phylogenetic studies showed that the Maine Coon belongs to the Western European monophyletic cat branch, but forms the closest relationship with the random-bred cat population in the Northeastern US (New York region). And for the Maine Coon in particular, that it is descended from the Norwegian or Siberian Forest cat, brought to New England by settlers or Vikings. These myths and theories have long speculated that the long-haired Maine Coon cat has to be related to other long-haired breeds, due to their similarities in phenotype. Although she did not make it to the United States, all of her pets managed to reach the shore of Wiscasset, Maine, safely, where they bred with other short-haired breeds and developed into the modern breed of the Maine Coon. She loaded Clough's ship with her most prized possessions, including six of her favorite Turkish Angora or possibly Siberian cats.
The story goes that before her death, Antoinette attempted to escape France with the help of Captain Samuel Clough. A third story involves Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France who was executed in 1793. The second myth states the cats are descendants of Viking ship’s cats, known today as the Norwegian Forest cats. One myth claims the Maine Coon cat is a hybrid with another animal species, such as the raccoon or bobcat. Maine Coon cats originated in Maine, however their lineage is surrounded by mystery, folk tales, and myths. The Maine Coon has since made a comeback, in 2020 becoming the third most popular pedigree cat breed in the world. The breed was popular in cat shows in the late 19th century, but its existence became threatened when long-haired breeds from overseas were introduced in the early 20th century. It has a distinctive physical appearance and valuable hunting skills. The Maine Coon is one of the largest domesticated cats. ĭue to the large size of this feline, professionals have noticed certain health problems arising in the breed, including feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia. The Maine Coon is often cited as having " dog-like" characteristics. The Maine Coon is a large and social cat, which could be the reason why it has a reputation of being referred to as "the gentle giant." The Maine Coon is predominantly known for its size and dense coat of fur which helps the large feline to survive in the harsh climate of Maine. state of Maine, where it is the official state cat. It is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America. The Maine Coon is a large domesticated cat breed.
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