Maine Coon Cat Size Vs Normal Cats
As an owner of three beautiful Maine Coons, I’ve grown accustomed to their impressive Maine Coon cat size, so much so that I mistake normal cats for kittens!
Known for being the largest domesticated cat breed and reaching up to an eye-watering 22lbs in weight (source: tica.org), these cats are renowned for their robust build, tufted ears, and majestic tails.
History And Origin
Maine Coon cats have a storied history rooted in North America, renowned for their large size and robust appearance.
Originating from the northeastern United States, these cats have adapted to harsh climates and are celebrated for their friendly nature and distinctive physical attributes.
Learn more about the Origins Of The Maine Coon Cat Breed, in this article.
Physical Characteristics
Maine Coon cats are distinguished by several notable features:
- Sturdy Build: They boast a muscular and substantial physique, making them one of the largest domestic cat breeds.
- Tufted Ears: Their ears are adorned with tufts of fur, enhancing their distinctive appearance.
- Bushy Tails: Their long, bushy tails taper to a point, aiding in balance and agility.
These characteristics contribute to their regal appearance and reflect their adaptation to their environment.
Maine Coon Size vs. Other Cat Breeds
Maine Coon cats are renowned for their impressive size and robust physique:
- Average Weight: According to tica.org female maine coons typically weigh between 12-15 lbs (5.4-6.8 kg), while males range from 18-22 lbs (8.2-10 kg).
- Length: These beautiful cats measure between 10 to 16 inches (25-40 cm) in height.
When comparing the Maine Coon size to typical domestic cat breeds, we quickly find that their huge proportions dwarf a normal cat’s dimensions:
| Maine Coon (Female) | Maine Coon (Male) | Regular House Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Weight: 12-15 lbs (5.4-6.8 kg) | Weight: 18-22 lbs (8.2-10 kg) | Weight: 8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4kg) |
| Height: 10-16 inch (25-40 cm) | Height: 10-16 inch (25-40 cm) | Height: 8-10 inch (20-25cm) |
| Length: 19-40 Inch 48 – 101 cm | Length: 19-40 Inch 48 – 101 cm | Length: Up to 18 Inch Up to 47 cm |
Maine Coons are notably larger than most domestic cat breeds, with males especially standing out for their substantial weight and height.
The comparison table above underscores the Maine Coon’s unique physical attributes, contributing to their popularity as gentle giants in the feline world.
If you’d like to see a more visual comparison, take a look at the infographic I created below:
Factors Influencing The Size Of Maine Coons
The size of Maine Coon cats, renowned for their impressive stature, is influenced by a variety of factors:
1. Genetics
Maine Coons are genetically inclined to develop a large stature.
Breeders selectively breed for traits that emphasize this cat breed’s robust build, including their large bones, muscular frame, and long bodies.
2. Gender
Sexual dimorphism is prominent in Maine Coons, with males generally larger and heavier than females. This difference is due to hormonal influences during growth and development.
On average, male Maine Coons weigh between 18-22 pounds (8-10 kg), while females typically range from 12-15 pounds (5.5-7 kg).
3. Health And Development
Proper nutrition and veterinary care during kittenhood and adolescence are crucial for healthy growth.
A balanced diet rich in protein and essential nutrients supports bone and muscle development, ensuring they reach their genetic potential for size.
Conversely, these Maine Coon health issues or inadequate care during these formative years can impact growth and overall size.
4. Breed Standards
Maine Coons adhere to specific breed standards that outline desired physical characteristics, including size.
These standards guide breeders in their selection and breeding practices to maintain the breed’s distinctive features, including its large size.
5. Age
Maine Coons are slow to mature compared to other domestic cat breeds, typically reaching full physical maturity between 3-5 years of age.
During this period, they continue to grow and develop, with their size influenced by:
6. Scientific Explanation
According to Wiktionary, the ‘square-cube law’ theory may help to explain why the Maine Coon cat size differs so wildly from other cat breeds.
The premise of this mathematical principle is that when a shape grows in size, its volume will grow faster than its surface area (source 1).
Famous Large Maine Coons
Here are a few notable Maine Coon cats known for their large size and fame:
Stewie
- Age: Born in 2005
- Location: Nevada, USA
- Size: Reported to be over 48 inches (122 cm) long
- Records: Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s longest domestic cat until 2013.
Ludo
- Age: Born in 2013
- Location: Wakefield, UK
- Size: Measures 45.5 inches (115.5 cm) long
- Records: Current holder of the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest domestic cat since 2017.
Barivel
- Age: Born in 2017
- Location: Italy
- Size: Known for his impressive size and appearance.
- Popular on social media for his large size and majestic appearance.
These cats have gained fame not only for their size but also for their unique personalities and appearances.
Longest Maine Coon
The longest Maine Coon on record is a cat named Barivel, who measured an impressive 120 cm (3 ft 11.2 in) from his nose to the tip of his tail.
Barivel, hailing from Italy, has gained international attention for his extraordinary length, which contributed to his recognition as the world’s longest domestic cat by Guinness World Records in May 2018.
His exceptional size made him a standout even among Maine Coons, known for their substantial build and stature.
Maine Coon Height Vs Other Cat Breeds
The Maine Coon, known for its large size, has an average height range of 10-16 inches (25-40 cm), which is significantly taller than most other domestic cat breeds.
The following table compares the average height of various cat breeds, vs. Maine Coon.
| Breed | Average Height (inches) | Average Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Coon | 10-16 | 25-40 |
| Persian | 10-15 | 25-38 |
| Siamese | 8-10 | 20-25 |
| Domestic Short-Hair | 8-10 | 20-25 |
| Ragdoll | 9-11 | 23-28 |
| Sphynx | 8-10 | 20-25 |
| British Shorthair | 12-14 | 30-36 |
Average Lifespan Of A Maine Coon Cat
The average lifespan of a Maine Coon cat typically ranges between 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care, some Maine Coons can live up to 18 years or even longer.
Factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health management play crucial roles in determining their longevity.
Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, a balanced diet, and a safe environment are essential to ensuring a Maine Coon lives a healthy and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
The Maine Coon’s impressive size sets it apart as one of the largest domestic cat breeds.
Their robust build, tufted ears, and bushy tails contribute to their distinctive appearance.
Understanding their size not only emphasizes their unique qualities but also underscores the importance of tailored care and accommodation for these gentle giants in our homes.
