Life With An Orange Maine Coon

Did you know that orange Maine Coon cats are often mistaken for their ginger counterparts? According to the Cat Fanciers Association, the official color class for the Orange Maine Coon (often called ginger), is actually ‘red’!

Keep reading to discover some of the quirky traits orange Maine Coon cats exhibit, how to care for these beautiful cats, and why they have so many color names.

History And Origin

The Maine Coon cat, one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, hails from the state of Maine, where it is the official state cat.

The breed’s origins are steeped in mystery and folklore. One popular legend suggests that Maine Coons are the descendants of long-haired cats sent by Marie Antoinette during her attempt to escape France.

Another myth proposes that these cats resulted from domestic cats mating with raccoons, which I was pleased to discover was a biological impossibility!

The more plausible theory is that Maine Coons developed from cats brought to America by seafarers in the 1700s who then interbred with local short-haired cats.

Read more about the Origins Of The Maine Coon Cat.

A Touch Of Orange

The orange Maine Coon cat, often called “red” in the cat breeding world, has become a cherished coloring within the breed and is the result of selective breeding.

Orange Maine Coons gained popularity due to their eye-catching appearance and the warm, friendly impression their color conveys.

The Red Maine Coon (‘Orange’) is included within the following four color classes on the CFA website (source 1):

1. Solid Color Class (RED)

It has the same color criteria as the red tabby, with or without white on the face (classic, mackerel, ticked). The Maine Coon must have white markings on all four feet, their belly, and their bib

2. Red Tabby Color Class

The CFA classifies the red tabby fur coloring as ‘ground color red (classic, mackerel, ticked)’. Brick red-nose leather is desirable. Paw pads ideally, also brick red. The lip and chin may have a white trim. Fur markings will be ‘deep, rick red’.

3. Red Tabby And White Color Class (Including Vans)

Same color criteria as the red tabby (above), with or without white on the face (classic, mackerel, ticked). The Maine Coon must have white markings on all four feet, their belly, and their bib.

4. Bi-Color Color Class (Including Vans)

The fur will be a mixture of red and white. Both white and no white on the face are permitted. All four paws must have white on them. Bib and belly must contain white coloring.

Physical Characteristics

Here’s a breakdown of their key physical traits:

1. Size and Build

Orange Maine Coons are large and sturdy cats. Males can weigh between 18 to 22 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, weighing 12 to 15 pounds.

Their muscular bodies and solid bone structure give them a majestic, powerful appearance.

Coat and Coloration

The orange coloration of these cats can vary widely. You might see shades ranging from deep russet to light creams.

Their coats can also feature different patterns, including:

• Solid: A uniform, vibrant orange coat.
• Tabby: Striped or spotted patterns that add a dynamic look to their fur.

Distinctive Features

• Tufted Ears: Ears are topped with tufts of fur, giving them a wild, lynx-like look.
• Bushy Tails: They have long, bushy tails that are often compared to a raccoon.
• Expressive Eyes: Their large eyes come in shades of green, gold, or copper

Personality and Temperament

When it comes to the personality and temperament of Orange Maine Coon cats, I think they’re some of the most delightful companions you could ever have!

These cats have a truly affectionate nature, are always loving and gentle, and enjoy snuggling up next to you.

What I like most about them is their playful and intelligent behavior. They’re not just cute; they’re also quite smart!

Their curiosity knows no bounds, and they exhibit dog-like traits, such as playing fetch or greeting you at the door. If you want to teach your Maine Coon to play fetch, I recommend you read THIS cat training guide!

In terms of social interactions, Orange Maine Coons are fantastic. They get along well with families, children, other pets, and even strangers. They’re friendly and sociable, making them perfect for a household with a lot of activity.

Their gentle demeanor means they’re great with kids, providing endless entertainment without ever being too rough.

Health And Lifespan

Orange Maine Coons typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years. Factors that can influence their longevity include:

• Genetics: Good breeding practices reduce the risk of genetic conditions.
• Diet and Exercise: A well-balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Regular Vet Care: Early detection and management of health issues.
• Loving Environment: I think a stress-free, loving environment is crucial for their mental and emotional health, which in turn affects their physical health.

Like all Maine Coons, Orange Maine Coons are prone to certain health conditions:

1. Hip Dysplasia

This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

I think an important part of preventative care is helping your cat maintain a healthy weight since this reduces stress on their joints. Regular vet check-ups can also help identify early signs.

Read more about Maine Coon Hip Dysplasia, and the most important facts.

2. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM is a form of heart disease that causes the heart walls to thicken, potentially leading to heart failure.

Owners concerned about this issue should schedule annual veterinary visits where the vet can perform heart screenings. Early detection through echocardiograms can manage the condition better.

Learn more about Maine Coon Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).

3. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

SMA is a genetic disorder that affects the muscles near the spine, leading to muscle wasting and weakness.

Genetic testing of breeding cats can help reduce the incidence of SMA. While there’s no cure, maintaining a safe environment for mobility-challenged cats is essential.

Learn more about Maine Coon Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a hereditary condition where cysts form in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure over time. Learn more about Maine Coon Polycystic Kidney Disease, here.

Regular vet visits and ultrasounds can detect kidney issues early. A special diet and medications may help manage symptoms.

Preventive Care Tips

Keeping an Orange Maine Coon healthy requires the following proactive and consistent care:

• Regular Vet Visits: Schedule bi-annual check-ups to monitor the cat’s health and catch issues early.
• Vaccinations: Keeping up with your cat’s vaccinations is essential to protect them from common feline diseases.
• Parasite Control: My cats are on a regular flea, tick & worm prevention regimen.
• Healthy Diet: Feeding a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports their overall health. I also include supplements for joint health and coat condition.
• Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups help prevent dental disease.
• Exercise: Providing plenty of opportunities for physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of obesity-related diseases.

Coat Care

Maintaining the luxurious fur of an Orange Maine Coon can be quite the task but I think these regal cats are well worth the effort!

Here’s what works best for my two Maine Coons:

• Brushing: I brush my Maine Coon at least 2-3 times a week. Their thick, long fur can easily mat, especially around their bottom and cat pits (yes, that’s what I call them!!). Using a high-quality metal comb or slicker brush like these tools helps keep their coat smooth and free of tangles.
• Bathing: While Maine Coons don’t need frequent baths, I like to bathe mine every few months to keep their coat clean and reduce shedding. Use a gentle cat shampoo (these are my favorite ones).
• Trimming Fur: Occasionally, I trim the fur around Bali’s sanitary area. This helps keep him clean and also prevents litter from sticking to his fur. Bali used to get a few poop dangleberry issues – yuck! This is no longer an issue, thankfully.
• Ears and Eyes: Check their ears for dirt and clean them with a vet-recommended solution. Wipe their eyes gently with a damp cloth to remove any discharge.

Diet and Nutrition

Keeping your Maine Coon healthy and energetic starts with a proper diet:

• High-Quality Protein: I ensure my cat’s diet is rich in high-quality animal protein. Look for cat foods where the first ingredient is a named protein source like chicken, turkey, or fish. Here’s a selection of high-quality dry cat foods.
• Balanced Diet: Besides protein, a balanced diet with the right mix of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals is essential. I avoid feeding my Maine Coons foods with fillers like corn and wheat.
• Hydration: Maine Coons are prone to urinary issues, so make sure they have access to fresh water. Three of our Maine Coons have suffered from UTI so now only eat Royal Canin Urinary Dry Food – you’ll find it here.
• Portion Control: Obesity can be an issue, so I monitor their portions and avoid overfeeding. Treats are fine but should be given in moderation.
• Supplements: Depending on their health needs, I sometimes add supplements like omega-3 fatty acids to their food for a shiny coat or glucosamine for joint health.

Exercise Needs

Maine Coons are playful and energetic, so keeping them active is key to their happiness and health:

• Interactive Toys: I’ve found interactive toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders keep them engaged and mentally stimulated. My favorite cat toys are these.
• Climbing Structures: Maine Coons love to climb. A sturdy cat tree gives them a great outlet for their climbing instincts. Take a look at my huge cat tree below, and some of our other favorite large cat trees.
• Playtime: Daily play sessions are a must. I set aside 20-30 minutes every day to play with my cats, which helps burn off energy and strengthen our bond.
• Scratching Posts: To keep their claws healthy and to save my furniture, I provide plenty of scratching posts and pads!
• Companionship: They are social creatures so I purposely adopted two Maine Coon brothers that would keep each other company.

Home Environment

Living with a Maine Coon cat requires some preparation to ensure your home is suitable for them. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Space: Maine Coons are large cats and they love to explore. I think it’s essential to provide them with plenty of space (sorry folks living in small apartments!). My cats enjoy having room to roam and climb, so a multi-level cat tree like these and various perches around the house have been well worth their value.
• Safe Environment: My home is cat-proofed. This means securing any loose wires, keeping hazardous plants out of reach, and ensuring there are no small objects they can swallow.
• Comfortable Spots: Cats love relaxing in cozy spots. I’ve placed these comfortable large pet beds and blankets in quiet household areas.

Training And Behavior

Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful:

• Litter Box Habits: Consistency is key. I placed the litter box in a quiet, accessible location and kept it clean. My cats took to it quickly because I made sure it was always in the same spot and cleaned regularly.
• Positive Reinforcement: I use treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Positive reinforcement has worked wonders.

Breeding And Adoption

When it comes to finding the perfect Orange Maine Coon, I think it’s crucial to be mindful about where you get your new furry friend.

Here’s some advice based on my own experience:

1. Finding A Reputable Breeder

Finding a responsible breeder is key. I always start by doing thorough research.

A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their cats over profits.

They should be transparent about the cat’s health history, provide proper documentation, and allow you to visit their breeding facility or FaceTime video chat with you, enabling you to meet the kitten you plan on buying.

I recommend reading my online TICA Maine Coon Cat breeder list, as it’s a reliable resource for finding ethical breeders who adhere to TICA’s high standards.

2. Adoption Tips

Adopting cats from shelters or Maine Coon rescue organizations is another wonderful option, here’s a list of your nearest Maine Coon Rescue Centres.

When adopting, I always consider the cat’s background and ask about their health and temperament.

Shelters often provide valuable insights into the cat’s personality and any special needs they might have.

3. Ethical Considerations

Ethical breeding practices and responsible pet ownership are so important. I think it’s vital to choose breeders who do not support overbreeding and who focus on maintaining the breed’s health.

Responsible pet ownership also means committing to the lifelong care of your cat, including:

• Regular vet visits
• Proper nutrition
• Plenty of love and attention

Cost

The cost of Orange Maine Coons can vary significantly based on several factors, including age, origin, and whether the cat is a pet or has breeding rights.

Here’s a general breakdown of the costs in US dollars, with GBP equivalents in brackets:

• Kitten

Price: $1,000 – $2,000 (approx. £790 – £1,580)

Kittens from reputable Maine Coon breeders like these are usually more expensive, especially those with good lineage and health guarantees.

• Adult Cat

Price: $700 – $1,200 (approx. £550 – £950)

Adult Maine Coons might be less expensive than kittens, but their cost can still be high depending on their health, pedigree, and whether they come with breeding rights.

• Shelter or Rescue

Price: $100 – $400 (approx. £80 – £320)

Adopting from a shelter or rescue organization is generally more affordable. This fee usually includes spaying/neutering and vaccinations.

• Retired Breeding Cat

Price: $500 – $1,000 (approx. £395 – £790)

Breeders sometimes sell retired breeding cats. These cats are typically healthy, socialized, and looking for a loving home after their breeding days are over.

How Common Are Orange Maine Coons?

Orange Maine Coons, also known for their ginger or red coat coloration, are relatively common within the Maine Coon breed. The genetics behind their coloration are tied to their chromosomes, specifically the X chromosome.

In cats, including Maine Coons, coat color is determined by genes located on the X chromosome.

Female cats have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). The gene responsible for orange coloration (known as the O gene or O allele) is located on the X chromosome.

Here’s a simplified explanation of how the genetics work:

• Orange Gene (O): This gene is dominant, meaning if a cat inherits the O gene from one parent, it will display orange coloration.
• Non-Orange Gene (o): This gene is recessive. A cat needs two copies of the non-orange gene (oo) to display non-orange colors like black or blue.

Since females have two X chromosomes, they can either be orange (XO) if they inherit the O gene from one or both parents or non-orange (Xo) if they inherit the non-orange gene from both parents.

Males, however, have only one X chromosome, so they will be orange (XO) if they inherit the O gene, and non-orange (Xo) if they inherit the non-orange gene.

Male Maine Coons can only inherit the orange coloration from their mother.

Female orange Maine Coons are generally more common than males.

Conclusion

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed exploring the world of Orange Maine Coon Cats with you!

Throughout our journey, we’ve uncovered their striking physical characteristics, from their large, sturdy build to their varied shades of orange and distinctive features like tufted ears and expressive eyes.

Their personality and temperament have also shone through, revealing them as affectionate, playful, and intelligent companions who thrive in loving households.

If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who might also be interested in learning more about these amazing cats.