The White Maine Coon’s Unexpected Secret
White Maine Coon cats are known for their majestic appearance, combining the breed’s large size with a striking pure white coat.
They possess the same friendly and playful temperament as other Maine Coons, making them excellent pets, but did you know many are deaf?
This article delves into the unique characteristics, care needs, and fascinating facts about white Maine Coon cats, providing valuable insights for potential owners and enthusiasts.
History And Origin
Maine Coon cats have a rich history and are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, originating from the northeastern United States.
Known for their impressive size and friendly demeanor, these cats have become beloved pets worldwide.
The white color variation in Maine Coons is particularly striking and developed through selective breeding. This coloring is especially prized among cat enthusiasts.
Physical Characteristics
The key physical identifiers of a white Maine Coon are as follows:
Coat
White Maine Coons have a pure white coat that is soft and silky. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their appearance, with brushing recommended a few times a week to prevent matting.
Size
White Maine Coons are as large as any other Maine Coon coloring. Males typically weigh 18-22 lbs, while females average 12-15 lbs. Both genders grow 19-40 inches in length.
The infographic below helps readers gauge the male vs female Maine Coon size difference:
Eyes
A white Maine Coons eye color varies. It is often blue or green, but sometimes they have odd eyes (each eye is a different color).
Distinctive Features
White Maine Coons share the breed’s robust build, tufted ears, and bushy tails.
Genetics
White Maine Coons owe their coat color to a specific genetic trait involving the KIT gene. This gene controls the production of melanocytes, which are responsible for pigment production in a cat’s:
- Skin
- Hair
- Eyes
In white Maine Coons, a mutation in the KIT gene suppresses the production of melanocytes in the hair, resulting in a lack of pigment and a white coat.
Health Conditions Linked to White Fur
The following genetic health conditions have been linked to white-coated Maine Coons:
1. Deafness
White Maine Coons with blue eyes are often associated with congenital deafness. This condition is linked to the same gene responsible for their coat color (KIT gene mutation).
Approximately 40-65% of white cats with blue eyes are born deaf in at least one ear.
Cats with two copies of the white spotting gene (S/S genotype) are likely to have congenital deafness, particularly if the gene affects their inner ear development.
The absence of pigment in the inner ear structures, particularly in those with blue eyes, can lead to varying degrees of hearing impairment or deafness.
This condition, known as congenital deafness, occurs when the melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) that are crucial for hearing do not develop properly in the inner ear.
2. Sun-Sensitivity
Due to their lack of pigment, white Maine Coons are more susceptible to sunburn and skin damage from UV rays.
It’s essential to provide them with indoor environments or safe outdoor access with sun protection to prevent skin issues and potential melanoma.
Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas of their skin, especially ears and nose, when outdoors.
Other Health Issues
In addition to sun-sensitivity and possible deafness, Maine Coon cats are also genetically prone to the following medical conditions:
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Maine Coons are susceptible to this heart condition, which can lead to heart failure if not managed. Learn more about it in this guide.
2. Hip Dysplasia And Joint Issues
Due to their size, Maine Coons may develop hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint supplements may help alleviate symptoms.
Here are 3 common joint concerns to watch out for.
3. Periodontal Disease
Like many cats, Maine Coons are prone to dental issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth with this type of cat toothpaste and brush, and providing cat-friendly dental treats, is essential.
4. Obesity
A Maine Coons’ robust appetite and size predisposes them to obesity, which can lead to various health problems. Monitor your cat’s diet and provide them with plenty of exercise.
5. Spinal Muscular Atrophy
This genetic condition can lead to muscle wasting and weakness. Genetic testing can identify carriers, and early intervention may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Learn more about Maine Coon Spinal Muscular Atrophy, in this helpful guide.
6. Urinary Tract Issues
Three of my Maine Coons have experienced mild-severe urinary tract infections, which highlights just how prone to suffering from UTIs, Maine Coon cats are!
Ensuring they have access to fresh water and monitoring their litter box habits can help detect issues early. If they look like they are struggling to pass urine, or trying to pee every few minutes, contact your veterinarian ASAP.
It was seriously frightening when Bali and Pippin suffered from urinary tract infections, as they had severe reactions.
I’ve turned this bad experience into a positive though! I learned that Royal Canin Urinary Food reduces the risk of a cat developing a UTI.
Yes, it’s expensive – upsettingly so if I’m honest, however, my cats are fit and healthy and have not experienced any further bouts of UTI. Find the link to the urinary cat food I feed my cats in this article.
7. Gastrointestinal Conditions
Your Maine Coon cat may be susceptible to digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and gastrointestinal cancers.
Temperament and Personality
To give you a better understanding of the Maine Coon cat breed, here are some personality and temperament traits associated with the breed:
- Affectionate: Maine Coons are known for their affectionate nature and strong bond with their owners.
- Gentle: They have a gentle demeanor, which makes them suitable for families with children and other pets.
- Intelligent: Very intelligent cats with problem-solving abilities and curiosity.
- Playful: Maintain a playful attitude throughout their lives, enjoying interactive toys and games, like these.
- Adaptable: Adapt well to different environments. Easy-going cats.
Some owners report that white Maine Coons exhibit a confident personality, showing less timidity compared to other colors.
Are These Cats Albino?
White Maine Coons are not albino. Albinism is a genetic condition that results in a complete absence of pigment (melanin) in the skin, fur, and eyes.
White Maine Coons, on the other hand, have a white coat due to a different genetic mechanism involving the piebald or white spotting gene (source 1).
How Common Are They?
White Maine Coons are relatively rare compared to other color variations of the breed. Estimates suggest that only about 5-10% of all Maine Coons exhibit white coat coloration.
This rarity is primarily due to the genetic factors involved in producing a predominantly white coat while maintaining the breed’s other characteristic traits.
Breeders who specialize in Maine Coons may occasionally produce white kittens, but they are often sought after due to their distinctive appearance.
Breeding White Maine Coons
Understanding the following genetic factors assists breeders in planning and predicting the outcomes of breeding programs:
- Breeding Challenges: White Maine Coon kittens can only result from at least one parent being solid white.
- Masking Gene: Breeders cannot control whether the masking gene, crucial for producing white coats, is passed to offspring.
- Dominant Trait: White is a dominant color in Maine Coons, consistently expressed in each generation.
- Litter Variations: White Maine Coons can produce litters that are either entirely white or reveal hidden masked colors/patterns.
- Temporary Markings: Many white Maine Coon kittens are born with fleeting colored markings on their heads, providing clues to their hidden genetics.
Sunburn And Cancer
According to the RSPCA, white cats, in general, are more prone to getting sunburnt, than other cat colorings.
They are prone to sunburn and skin cancer due to several factors:
- Fair Skin: Cats with lighter coats have less pigment (melanin) in their skin, which provides natural protection against UV radiation.
- Exposure to Sunlight: Maine Coons enjoy spending time outdoors, increasing their exposure to UV rays, especially on sensitive areas like the ears, nose, and around the eyes.
- Lack of Protective Fur: Short fur on a cat’s ears and nose provides less natural protection against sunburn.
Prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer by providing your Maine Coon with adequate shade, limiting outdoor exposure during peak sunlight hours, and applying pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas.
Conclusion
White Maine Coons represent a fascinating aspect of feline genetics, characterized by the interplay of dominant traits and the masking gene.
Despite the breeding challenges and potential health considerations like deafness and sun sensitivity, their unique beauty continues to captivate cat enthusiasts worldwide.
