Black Maine Coon Cats: Breed, Size, Temperament
Black Maine Coon cats are a striking variant of the beloved Maine Coon breed, renowned for their majestic appearance and charming personalities.
With their luscious black fur and captivating golden eyes, these felines exude an air of elegance and mystery.
Black Maine Coons originate in North America. They are not the most popular coloring but are still favored. They are relatively common but not as prevalent as some other colors like brown tabby or white. The black coloration in Maine Coons can vary in intensity, ranging from solid jet black to black with hints of brown or reddish undertones.
Despite their dark coloration, black Maine Coons are cherished for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and playful demeanor.
Their popularity continues to soar, making them sought-after companions for cat enthusiasts worldwide.
Black Maine Coon History And Origins
The Maine Coon breed originates from the northeastern United States, particularly the state of Maine, hence the name.
The exact origins of the breed are shrouded in mystery and folklore, one prevailing theory suggests they are descendants of longhaired cats brought over by sailors in the 19th century, who then interbred with local cats.
Another popular legend claims that Maine Coons are the result of domestic cats mating with raccoons, although this is biologically impossible.
As for the presence of black Maine Coons throughout history compared to normal cat breeds, it’s essential to note that Maine Coons come in a variety of colors and patterns, including black.
While black Maine Coons may not have been as prominent historically as some other colors, such as brown tabby or solid white, they have always been a part of the breed’s genetic diversity.
In comparison to other cat breeds, the occurrence of black Maine Coons is similar to the prevalence of black cats in general cat populations, albeit with some variations due to breeding preferences and regional differences.
Physical Appearance
Black Maine Coon cats exhibit a striking appearance characterized by their glossy, jet-black fur.
Their triple-layered coat is dense, with a soft, luxurious texture that offers excellent protection against harsh weather conditions.
Unlike some other cat breeds, Maine Coons have a semi-water-resistant outer coat and a dense undercoat, which helps keep them warm and dry in colder climates.
One of the most notable features of black Maine Coons is their coat color.
True to their name, their fur is uniformly black from root to tip, creating a sleek and elegant appearance.
Some black Maine Coons may have subtle variations in shade, ranging from deep charcoal to a rich, lustrous black, adding depth and dimension to their coat.
In addition to their stunning coat color, black Maine Coons often possess other distinctive physical traits characteristic of the breed.
These may include tufted ears, large expressive eyes that range in color from gold to copper, and a robust, muscular build.
Their tufted ears and large, bushy tails are particularly striking features.
Overall, black Maine Coon cats are known for their regal bearing, graceful movements, and captivating presence.
Their distinctive features make them highly sought-after among cat enthusiasts and contribute to their enduring popularity as one of the most beloved breeds in the feline world.
Personality, Temperament, And Behavioral Traits
Black Maine Coon cats share many common personality traits with their counterparts of other colors, including:
- Intelligence
- Sociability
- Playfulness
- Affectionate Nature
- Vocalizations
- Curiosity
- Get on well with other pets
Here’s a detailed look at these characteristics:
Intelligence
Black Maine Coons are highly intelligent cats known for their problem-solving abilities.
They enjoy engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as:
- Puzzle Toys
- Interactive Games
- Training Sessions
Their keen intellect allows them to learn new tasks quickly.
Sociability
Black Maine Coons are incredibly sociable and enjoy being around people, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
They thrive on human interaction and are often described as affectionate and loyal family pets.
These cats form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their willingness to cuddle or lay next to you to maximize the affection they can give and receive!
Playfulness
Like all Maine Coons, black Maine Coons have a playful and mischievous nature that endears them to their owners.
They retain their kitten-like energy well into adulthood and enjoy playing with a range of toys, climbing structures, and interactive games.
Their playful antics provide endless entertainment for their families and help keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Affectionate Nature
Black Maine Coon cats are known for their affectionate and loving demeanor towards their human companions.
They enjoy being near their owners and are not shy about showing their affection, whether that be via kisses, headbutts, or following you around the house!
Vocalizations
While not excessively vocal, black Maine Coon cats are known to communicate with their owners through a variety of sounds, including chirps and trills.
They use their voice to express their needs, greet their owners, or solicit attention.
Some black Maine Coons are more talkative than others, but they generally enjoy engaging in conversations with their humans.
Here’s a YouTube video that I made of my Maine Coon constantly talking to me! It’s like having your best mate following you around the house, chatting away!
Curiosity
Black Maine Coon cats (like all cats of every color) are naturally curious animals that enjoy exploring their environment.
They may investigate new objects, smells, and sounds with enthusiasm, using their keen senses to gather information about their surroundings.
Owners should provide plenty of opportunities for exploration and mental stimulation to satisfy their cat’s curiosity.
Get On Well With Other Pets
Maine Coon cats typically get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cat breeds.
They are generally tolerant and non-aggressive, making them excellent companions for multi-pet households.
Proper introductions and gradual socialization are key to fostering positive relationships between Maine Coons and other animals in the home.
Breeding And Genetics
Black Maine Coon cats owe their distinctive coat color to a combination of genetic factors.
The black coloration is primarily governed by the existence of a dominant gene, known as “B” in genetic terms.
This gene produces eumelanin, the pigment that gives the fur its dark hue. When a Maine Coon inherits two copies of the “B” gene (denoted as “BB”), it will display a solid black coat.
Breeding black Maine Coons involves careful consideration of the genetic makeup of both parent cats.
Breeders must ensure that at least one parent carries the dominant “B” gene to produce black offspring.
They may encounter challenges when attempting to produce black Maine Coons with specific coat patterns, such as smoke or tabby.
This is because these patterns result from interactions between multiple genes, requiring a deeper understanding of feline genetics and selective breeding practices.
Black Cat Superstitions
There are many superstitions relating to black cats which differ wildly across different cultures.
Some countries consider black cats to be a symbol of positivity, whereas others consider them to be bad omens.
The table below highlights the varying cultural beliefs, around the world regarding black cat meanings (source 1):
| Culture | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Scottish Mythology | The arrival of an unknown black cat in a home signifies prosperity |
| Celtic Mythology | A fairy as Cat Sith takes the form of a black cat |
| Britain and Japan | Black cats are considered good luck |
| Western History | Black cats were considered evil omens, linked to witches |
| Most Of Europe | Black cats are considered a sign of bad luck, especially if one walks across your path |
| Germany | It is a bad omen for a black cat to walk across someone’s path from right to left. However, it is a positive thing if the catwalks from left to right. |
| Pilgrims | Think black cats are companions of witches. If found with a black cat, you were punished, or killed! |
| Sailors | Consider black cats to be lucky |
| Fishermans Wifes | Thought keeping a black cat at home would protect their fishermen husbands whilst out at sea |
| 18th Century Pirates | Thought black cats walking towards a person was bad luck, but good luck if they were walking away from you |
Black Maine Coon Adoptions
Through no fault of their own, the black Maine Coon is tarnished with superstition, to a degree.
It is thought that black Maine Coons take far longer to be rehomed in American animal shelters than other Maine Coon colorings.
This is partly linked to superstition, but also because people consider black cats to be boring, and difficult to photograph.
Superstition does play a part in the black Maine Coons adoption rates though.
Since some cat shelters deliberately limit the number of black Maine Coons put up for adoption during the Halloween season!
This is because shelters fear black cats will be tortured or abandoned after the Halloween season has ended (source 1).
Black Maine Coon Breeders
There are a large number of black Maine Coon breeders across the world.
If you live in the United States, I recommend you contact the ‘Cat Fanciers Association’ to obtain a list of approved and reputable Maine Coon breeders nearby.
Alternatively, read my article on Registered Maine Coon Cat Breeders, By US State, to get the ball rolling!
If you live in the United Kingdom, please contact the Governing Board Of The Cat Fancy, the UK’s Premier Registration Body, to find registered breeders located near you (link).
Famous Black Maine Coon Cats
Throughout history and popular culture, several notable black Maine Coon cats have captured the hearts of many.
One famous example is Captain Kidd, a beloved black Maine Coon owned by American author Ernest Hemingway.
Captain Kidd’s larger-than-life personality and striking appearance inspired Hemingway’s love for the breed, even leading him to feature cats in his literary works.
Another famous black Maine Coon is Pluto, the companion of American poet Edgar Allan Poe.
Pluto’s mysterious and enigmatic demeanor mirrored Poe’s fascination with the supernatural, making him an iconic literary figure.
These legendary cats continue to be celebrated for their unique charm and enduring influence on their owners’ lives.
According to TICA (The International Cat Association), human patients suffering from arthritis, or hand injuries are often given cat therapy to help heal them!
It is thought that stroking a cat is both therapeutic and a great way to encourage patients suffering from hand health issues, to exercise their hands.
Some further benefits of cat therapy treatment include:
- Helps lower individual blood pressure
- Reduces stress
- Reduces depression
One famous black-silver Maine Coon, known as “RW SGC Sarajen OliverUnderfoot of Maggismaines”, was honored as a loving cat therapist by the International Cat Association.
His work with patients includes regularly visiting a nursing home where he helps older individuals to strengthen their hands.
Conclusion
The black Maine Coon is a beautiful eye-catching creature that has become massively popular in recent years.
In the United States, they even celebrate “Black Cat Appreciation Day” on August 17th!
Whilst the black Maine Coon’s reputation has been shrouded in superstition for centuries, this particular Maine Coon coloring is still considered one of the most popular Maine Coon colorings to buy.
There are several different black Maine Coon colorings that you could pick from, so why not grab a coffee and scroll through the stunning black Maine Coon cat images across the internet.
Alternatively, you can make your life simple, and check out my ‘Black Maine Coon Cat’ board on Pinterest!
