Are Maine Coons Part Lynx?
Maine Coon cats are often thought to be part lynx due to their large size, tufted ears, and wild appearance. However, this is a myth – Maine Coons are domesticated cats (Felis catus) and are not genetically related to the lynx (Lynx genus).
Despite their striking resemblance, these two species have entirely different evolutionary backgrounds.
Although Maine Coons do not share DNA with lynxes, the belief that they are part lynx has persisted for centuries.
Let’s explore why this myth has endured and the similarities and differences between these two majestic felines.
Why People Believe Maine Coons Are Part Lynx
The theory that Maine Coons have lynx ancestry has been widely believed for generations. Several key factors contribute to this persistent myth:
1. Physical Resemblance To Lynxes
Maine Coons share many physical traits with lynxes, including:
- Tufted ears: Both have long ear tufts that enhance their sharp, wild appearance.
- Large, muscular bodies: Maine Coons are one of the biggest domestic cat breeds, sometimes reaching up to 40 inches (101 cm) in length, which reminds people of a wild lynx.
- Thick, bushy tails: Like lynxes, Maine Coons have fluffy tails that they wrap around themselves for warmth.
- Big paws with fur between the toes: These adaptations help them walk on snow, just like lynxes in the wild.
These similarities make it easy to assume there’s a genetic connection, even though Maine Coons are purely domestic cats.
2. Their Wild And Mysterious Origins
The true origins of the Maine Coon are uncertain, leading to myths about wild cat ancestry. Some legends claim that Maine Coons descended from:
- Cats brought by Vikings, possibly mixing with local bobcats or lynxes.
- Marie Antoinette’s long-haired cats supposedly escaped to Maine.
- Feral cats adapted to the harsh Maine winters, evolving thicker fur and larger bodies over time.
Because there is no definitive record of how the breed originated, people have created folklore involving wild cats like lynxes.
3. Wild-Looking Facial Features And Fur
Maine Coons have distinctive high cheekbones, long whiskers, and thick ruffs of fur around their necks, which resemble the lynx’s wild, rugged appearance.
Their long, luxurious coats (especially when ruffled) can make them look like small wildcats, strengthening the misconception of lynx ancestry.
4. Their Hunting Skills And Playful Aggression
Maine Coons are excellent hunters, displaying sharp instincts and powerful pounces similar to wild lynxes.
Their love of climbing, stalking, and ambushing prey makes them seem more “wild” than the average house cat, fueling speculation that they have lynx DNA.
5. Lynx-Like Vocalizations
While most domestic cats have meows and purrs, Maine Coons often make chirping and trilling sounds, which resemble the vocalizations of lynxes in the wild.
This unique way of communicating further adds to the belief that Maine Coons might share a link with their wild counterparts.
Comparison Between Maine Coon Vs Lynx
Although Maine Coons and lynxes look similar, they have significant differences in origin, physical features, behavior, and habitat.
Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Feature | Maine Coon (Felis catus) | Lynx (Lynx genus) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Domesticated breed from Maine, USA. Believed to have Viking or European ancestry. | Wild species are found in North America, Europe, and Asia. No domestication history. |
| Size | Large domestic cat; males weigh 18 – 22 lbs (8.2-10 kg), females 12-15 lbs (5.4-6.8 kg). | Much larger; can weigh 18-60 lbs (8-27 kg) depending on the species. |
| Length | Up to 40 inches (101 cm), including tail. | Can grow up to 47 inches (120 cm), not including the tail. |
| Tail | Long and bushy, usually about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). | Short and stubby, rarely more than 5 inches (13 cm). |
| Ears | Large, pointed ears with tufts (lynx tips). | Similar tufted ears but are much longer and more prominent. |
| Fur | Thick, water-resistant double coat varies in length by season. | Dense fur, especially around the cheeks and neck adapted for extreme cold. |
| Coat Colors | Many colors, including tabby, solid, bicolor, and smoke. | Typically tan, gray, or reddish-brown with black spots or stripes. |
| Eyes | Large, oval-shaped eyes in a variety of colors. | Rounder, more piercing eyes, often yellow or amber. |
| Whiskers | Long and prominent, often extending past the face. | Also long but tends to be thicker and shorter. |
| Claws | Retractable claws are used for hunting and climbing. | Larger, sharper claws are designed for taking down large prey. |
| Behavior | Playful, affectionate, and social with humans and pets. | Solitary and territorial, rarely seen in groups. |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years, sometimes longer. | 10-14 years in the wild, slightly longer in captivity. |
| Diet | Domestic diet of cat food or raw prey-based diets. | Carnivorous; primarily eats hares, deer, and small mammals. |
Final Verdict
Maine Coons are not part lynx. Despite their wild appearance, tufted ears, and impressive size, Maine Coons are fully domesticated cats with no wild ancestry.
The myth of lynx heritage persists due to their striking resemblance, mysterious origins, and unique behaviors.
However, Maine Coons do share some physical and behavioral similarities with lynxes, including:
✔ Large, muscular builds
✔ Tufted ears
✔ Thick, weather-resistant fur
✔ Strong hunting instincts
✔ Playful, energetic behavior
But they also differ significantly:
✘ Maine Coons have long tails, whereas lynxes have short tails.
✘ Maine Coons are domesticated and social, while lynxes are wild and solitary.
✘ Maine Coons come in a variety of coat colors, whereas lynxes have limited natural coloring.
While Maine Coons may look like small lynxes, they remain one of the most beloved and friendly domestic cat breeds in the world.
Their unique history, affectionate personality, and stunning appearance make them a truly special breed, without any need for wild ancestry.
