Welcome to the intriguing universe of Maine Coons, where curious phenomena and unique habits await our understanding. By comprehending these traits, we not only enhance our Maine Coon companions’ well-being but also deepen our connection with these enigmatic and delightful beings. In this piece, we’ll unravel the various behaviors and idiosyncrasies of our Maine Coon friends, delving into the secrets of these mysterious yet utterly charming creatures.
Contents
1. Craving Cleanliness
Maine Coons, with their tiny bristle-like tongues, meticulously groom themselves, removing dirt and leaving their scent, ensuring a sense of security.
Yet, excessive grooming can lead to hairball issues. Regular grooming is key, preventing the discomfort of these natural but bothersome occurrences.
Moreover, after using the litter box, Maine Coons promptly clean up, maintaining their hygiene. Post-meals, they engage in cleansing rituals, emphasizing their affinity for cleanliness.
2. The 2/3 Rule: Maine Coons’ Day of Rest and Sleep
Each Maine Coon dances to its unique daily tune, yet the universal adoration for slumber persists. Cats, descendants of adept hunters, conserve energy, a trait carried even in domesticity. Hence, their extended siestas endure. Approximately 16 hours a day are devoted to sleep, a legacy from their predatory ancestors. Their peak activity graces the nocturnal and early dawn hours. In the daytime, they elegantly doze, selecting varied spots within the home. While plush beds are a luxury, they find solace in modest corners.
For Maine Coon kittens, a cardboard box layered with newspapers and cushioned with a gentle throw crafts a snug haven. Regular tidying up guarantees their resting nook stays inviting and mishap-free.
Before venturing out, ensure your Maine Coon has ample sustenance and hydration. Cats can manage solitude for about 24 hours. For lengthier spans, entrust a neighbor with refilling provisions and tending to their litter box daily. This considerate approach sustains their ease in a familiar setting, curbing potential health woes.
3. Coon Purring – A Unique Sound
You know, for those entering the Maine Coon world, it might seem odd: your Maine Coon making distinct sounds without moving their lips. It leaves you wondering, where does this sound come from? Is something wrong with my furry friend?
Let me tell you the secret: that calming purr? It’s all about aerodynamics, specifically from your Maine Coon’s throat. It’s a natural thing, something they’ve done since their kitten days. Usually, Cats start purring when they feel secure and relaxed.
But here’s the surprise – Maine Coons sometimes purr even when they’re nervous or nursing an injury. It’s not just about relaxation; it’s their unique way of expressing various emotions.
4. Front Paw Kneading
Cats tend to perform a rhythmic paw-kneading motion, alternating between their left and right front paws.
This behavior primarily stems from kittenhood, reminiscent of nursing.
Some believe adult cats continue this behavior because it reminds them of the comforting sensation while nursing from their mother. They may display this action during interactions with their human companions, perhaps as a way to seek affection.
Some cats, in addition to kneading, might suck on their owner’s skin or clothing. This could be because the texture of the skin and clothing resembles their mother’s mammary glands.
I’ve even witnessed Maine Coons kneading their own bellies while suckling! Perhaps, at that moment, they were lost in pure bliss.
5. Obedience
Every cat deserves to be recognized by its name. Regularly call out to them, especially during meals. Establish fixed routines for feeding and grooming your Maine Coon. Training your Maine Coon to perform tricks, like food-begging, can be delightful.
Remember, reward and praise are the keys. If your Maine Coon resists, respect their boundaries.
If undesirable habits persist, gentle correction is necessary. For instance, if your Maine Coon playfully bites or pounces on you, lift them and firmly say, “No.” Social interactions or a good scratching post can work wonders for your Maine Coon.
6. Scratching
Maine Coon owners often face the challenge of their feline companions leaving marks all around the house. From sofas and tables to walls, it seems like Maine Coons have declared their territory. But don’t blame your Maine Coon; scratching is an instinct, and they can’t understand why it upsets you.
Cats scratch furniture to mark their territory and communicate with other cats. Their paw pads have sweat glands and special scent-secreting glands. So, when they scratch, they’re not only leaving claw marks but also their unique scent.
Furthermore, Maine Coons scratch to keep their claws sharp and replace old ones. Introducing a scratching post is a solution. These posts come in various materials like corrugated cardboard, sisal rope, carpet-like fabric, or twine-wrapped pillars. Training your Maine Coon to use a scratching post is possible.
7. Feline Fitness
Cats, those wonderful beings, require minimal fuss about their exercise routines—a boon for many pet lovers. A mere ping pong ball or a strategically placed box can send Maine Coons into fits of delight. Indoor Maine Coons benefit from a good scratching post. If you can spare a moment for interactive play, that’s ideal.
Walking a cat isn’t a breeze like it is with dogs. Most adult Maine Coons shun this activity, and even if coerced, results might disappoint. For those determined to train, start during kittenhood. Ease them into the outdoors—from home to parks and finally sidewalks. A light, adequately long leash with a collar works best.
Yet, a Maine Coon’s temperament is the deciding factor. If anxiety or hypersensitivity from early stages persist, it might be wise to skip this endeavor.
8. Teething Tales
Kittens begin their dental journey shortly after birth, eventually adapting to dry food around two months old. Weaning, when nursing mothers discourage suckling, usually ensues.
All teeth seen before a Maine Coon kitten’s fourth month are milk teeth. These teeth naturally shed, making way for permanent ones. During teething, slight bleeding is common, lasting until 7 to 8 months of age. Mild gum swelling and temporary loss of appetite are part of the process
Ever wondered about a kitten’s missing milk teeth? Most cats tend to swallow them. Usually, it’s nothing to fret about, but if concern lingers, a vet’s advice is sound.
Can milk teeth linger? Yes, but it affects the growth and alignment of permanent teeth. If milk teeth persist past 8 months, a vet should remove them to ensure proper dental development.
9. Enjoy Biting People’s Hands and Feet
Cats, by nature, are fierce predators in the food chain. From their early days, they learn to hunt by practicing on their mothers or siblings.
But when they become our pets, Maine Coons miss out on these crucial experiences. Many cats owners complain, “My Maine Coon bites unexpectedly, even attacks my feet!” This behavior originates from their hunting instincts. To a Maine Coon, moving feet resemble prey, triggering their hunting curiosity.
Preventing habitual biting is essential during Maine Coon kittenhood. Playing with hands can teach them that hands are okay to bite, even as they grow, potentially causing harm.
To deter this, apply a bitter solution on your hands. Cats dislike the taste and will avoid biting. Alternatively, engage them with toys like teaser wands, redirecting their focus from your hands and feet. This not only fulfills their play needs but also reduces the chance of injuring humans, nurturing a positive human-Maine Coon relationship.
Reacting strongly to bites might encourage the Maine Coon, as they interpret it as play. Instead, issue a firm warning, prompting the Maine Coon to release its grip. Then, leave the room briefly, signaling that biting ends playtime. Avoid harsh punishment, preserving the trust between you and your Maine Coon.
Some Maine Coons may escalate aggression if punished, worsening their behavior. Remember, patience and understanding are key in building a strong bond with your Maine Coon companion.
10. Cat’s Pica Behavior
Ever heard the saying, “Curiosity killed the cat”? It’s incredibly fitting. Kittens, just like playful kids, explore everything – from bells and buttons to strings and rubber bands. Unfortunately, Maine Coons curiosity often leads to swallowing these items.
But here’s a twist: some cats develop a strange liking for plastic stuff. Owners, thinking they’re pleasing their pets, might offer plastic bags or ropes, not realizing the danger. Once cats start chewing on these materials, they can’t stop, sometimes even munching on foam flooring! Result? Serious blockages and hefty vet bills.
But that’s not all. Some cats adore fibers. So, keep sewing threads and sweaters far away. This fascination might come from their hunting instincts or the comforting feeling of nursing. But here’s a warning: never assume that just because a cat bites and doesn’t swallow, it’s harmless. Strings can cause severe internal injuries.
Ever seen a string hanging from a cat’s rear? Don’t yank it out! You can’t gauge the damage. Trim it and see a vet.
As for household wires, they can be irresistible to cats. However, if they chew on a live wire, electric shock becomes a serious threat. Tragic cases have been reported where pets suffered heart failure from such incidents. To prevent this, consider unplugging unused devices, tucking away wires, or using thick tubes to
Final Thoughts
Maine Coons, these fluffy little creatures, boast diverse personalities and habits, making each moment with them a delightful surprise.
As Maine Coon owners, understanding their quirks and ensuring a safe home environment is paramount. This awareness can save both you and your feline friend from unnecessary hassles and hefty vet bills. Never underestimate their curiosity; cats are always exploring, often leading to unexpected mishaps or dangers. Instead of scolding, focus on prevention and patient guidance.
