I would love to get a Maine Coon, but am unsure. I currently have a male neutered cat (no special breed and around 9 pounds) who is on the hyperactive side. He loves to play with other cats, but he plays rough. His "best friend" is my parents' male neuter, a 15+ pound, very laid-back, sweet, gentle cat who enjoys roughhousing with Max (unlike their two females) and is large enough to put Max in his place. I think Max needs a large male cat to pal around with, but I need to make sure the new cat's temperament is right. Max just bullies the two females. Would a Maine Coon be the right cat to get in this situation?

-- Anonymous, September 03, 1998

Answers

A Maine Coon male (neutered) would probably be right for your situation. They aren't hyperactive, and tolerate other cats very well. If Max gets out of line, the Maine Coon will teach Max to mind his manners without hurting him. He'll also be willing to "rough-house" with Max. Even MC kittens are bold enough to stand up to bigger, older cats. If you do get a MC, though, be sure to give Max enough attention so he doesn't become jealous and resentful of the new kitten.

I wouldn't suggest bringing an adult MC into your household if Max is very territorial, since the adult MC would be likely to respond in kind. (Cat fur all over the house!) A kitten will probably trigger Max's "fathering" instincts, whereas an adult will trigger his "territorial" instincts. There will be some hissing and growling for a few days, but that'll pass and I'll bet they end up as best buddies!

-- Anonymous, September 07, 1998

maine coons play/roughhouse throughout the long life they have,also keep growing and reach it around 5 years of age,they are built to live in maine. when i was a kid they could be found all over the place,streets.now they cost money and people keep them in,i still get alot of cats dumped on me and i give them to the aco but no more coons.

a mainer

-- Anonymous, May 02, 1999

We decided to buy a Maine Coon Cat for my 18 month old daughter. We currently own a dog and another cat. What persuaded me was the good memories of my friends Maine Coon. He was a huge, gentle, and friendly animal. I also did a substantial amount of research over the web before concluding that a Maine Coon was indeed the pet for us

-- Anonymous, December 08, 1999