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Few cats are more recognizable than the Maine Coon. With its large size and loving demeanor, the Maine Coon has become a very popular breed amount cat owners.
The Orange Maine Coon is a color variant of the Maine Coon cat, with an eye-catching orange coat. This large cat is muscular and playful but doesn’t mind spending the day in your lap. They make an excellent addition to large families. Learn more about breed history, appearance, personality, and more.
Breed History
While the history of the Maine Coon cat has been the subject of much folklore, the true history of this feline begins in the 1800s. Sailors traveling from Europe to America carried various cat passengers aboard their ships, who helped control rodent populations during the journey. When these cats arrived on land, they interbred with other cats and evolved into the Maine Coon. Genetic identification shows that the Maine Coon descended from the Norwegian Forest cat, and you can see many similarities between these breeds.
The long-haired Maine Coon cat was first recognized as a specific breed in Maine, where it was named the official state cat. This feline was prized by locals for its hunting abilities and thrived in the harsh New England conditions.
Appearance & Size
You’ll recognize a Maine Coon easily, thanks to its size. The Maine Coon holds the position of being one of the largest domestic cat breeds worldwide. These felines can weigh anywhere from 9 to 25 pounds and reach 30 to 40 inches in length. Male Maine Coones tend to grow larger than females.
The Maine Coon is a muscular breed with a long, rectangular body that is broad-chested and well-balanced. This cat breed has a square head with a broad muzzle, high cheekbones, and a deep chin. Its ears are large, with a wide base that tapers into points.
The Maine Coon has thick, long fur in over 75 different colorings. According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the Orange Maine Coon is classified as “red,” with a deep, rich color. The Red Maine Coon is categorized into one of four classes based on shading, markings, and ticking: solid, red tabby, red tabby and white, and bi-color. Its smooth, shaggy coat is silky and thick. The Maine Coon has a long, full tail.
Personality & Temperament
Maine Coons enjoy socializing and are an affectionate breed. This cat is playful and intelligent. The Maine Coon loves to relax with the family and will stay by your side all day. This feline’s easy-going temperament and gentle nature make it a fantastic choice for families and multi-pet households. This breed may be as giant as a wildcat, but it’s as lovable as a big teddy bear.
Shedding & Hypoallergenic
Maine Coon cats shed regularly and are not hypoallergenic. If you are allergic to cats, consider a different breed to fit your needs and lifestyle better. This long-haired breed will shed more significantly during spring into summer and fall into winter.
Grooming
Brush your Maine Coon cat at least two to three times per week. While all cats are impeccable self-groomers, your furry friend will still need assistance to keep matting away. Weekly brushing removes dirt and other debris, as well as loose hair and bacteria. Use a conditioning brush on your kitty’s coat to give it a glossy sheen. Brushing will disperse a cat’s natural oils and prevent matting.
Trim your cat’s nails regularly to prevent injury to your cat and yourself. Indoor cats especially need their nails trimmed often to maintain good health. Contact your veterinarian if you are unsure how to safely cut your cat’s nails.
Avoid periodontal disease by brushing your feline’s teeth regularly. You may also choose to give your kitten baths; however, cats do not require regular baths. Cats are excellent groomers and may refuse to get in the tub.
Care
Like all Maine Coon cats, the Orange Maine Coon likes to be social. This breed is so friendly to all that it has been dubbed the “Gentle Giant” of the cat community. Make sure to give your kitty stimulation and plenty of attention. Playing with your cat regularly can strengthen your bond and prevent behavioral problems.
Make sure to provide your cat with a litter box and clean it regularly. Before bringing a Maine Coon into your home, you should look for any potential dangers and familiarize yourself with foods that are safe for felines.
Give your cat daily stimulation with help from scratching posts, puzzle feeders, and interactive toys. Regular playtime and environment enrichment will prevent destructive, attention-seeking behavior. Because of their size, Orange Maine Coons may not be climbers, but they still require exercise to avoid weight gain. Try using a toy wand, bubbles, or laser to keep your kitty moving.
Nutrition
Like all cats, the Orange Maine Coon is a carnivore and requires a high-protein diet for proper nutrition. You should check that your cat’s food, whether wet or dry, is from diverse sources. Your Main Coon will need scheduled mealtimes and controlled portion sizes.
Give your cat access to fresh, clean water at all times. Your cat will need more water throughout the day if they eat only kibble. Cats must get enough water. You should monitor your cat’s water intake and report any changes to your veterinarian.
Training
The Maine Coon is an intelligent breed and will learn quickly. It is best to start training your cat at a young age. You must reward your cat for good behavior and ignore attention-seeking behavior, like biting, vocalizing, and inappropriate play. Maintain a routine, so your kitten knows when to expect acknowledgment and playtime. The more consistent the training, the less anxious and destructive your cat will act.
You can also teach your Orange Maine Coon tricks and—with lots of patience—how to walk on a leash. With a bit of positive reinforcement, you’ll have a fantastic walking partner in no time!
Health & Lifespan
If you choose to make an Orange Maine Coon your companion pet, you should consider pet insurance. The Maine Coon breed is prone to several health conditions, including hip dysplasia, spinal muscular atrophy, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Getting pet insurance at a young age will ensure that your cat’s medical needs are covered, as young pets have fewer pre-existing conditions that may prevent full coverage.
A lifespan of 13 to 14 years is considered average for this breed.
Price
The Maine Coon is an expensive breed. Depending on health, bloodline, and age, a Maine Coon can range from $400 to more than $1,500, with high-pedigree cats costing more than $2,500. You may be able to find a Maine Coon at a shelter and adopt your cat feline for a lower fee.
As Family Pets
Consider a Maine Coon if you have a family or other pets. Because of their gentle temperament, the Maine Coon cat is a good option for those with small children. The Maine Coon is happy to socialize, but you may find that it develops a stronger relationship with certain family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Orange Maine Coon cat a different breed?
While the Orange Maine Coon displays a unique color to its coat, it still has the same characteristics as other Maine Coon cats with another coloring. The Orange Maine Coon cat is the same breed but displays different colors.
Is an Orange Maine Coon different from the Red Maine Coon?
According to the CFA, the official color of this ginger cat is red. While the orange tinge of this cat’s fur is officially classified as red, it is often referred to as an Orange Maine Coon.
Final Thoughts
The Orange Maine Coon is a lovable furball that makes a great companion for families and multi-pet households. Named for its coloring, the Orange Main Coon cat is officially categorized as a red color but has a distinct orange appearance to most. It is a large cat; some would compare it to the size of a small dog!
Like all Maine Coons, the Orange Maine Coon loves attention and will happily spend the day cuddled in your lap. This breed is prone to a few genetic conditions, so be prepared to care for your Orange Maine Coon as it ages. Give your kitty regular playtime, a balanced diet, and environmental enrichment for a happy, healthy cat.
