The Maine Coon came out of New England farms and harbors, descended from cats that arrived with British settlers and adapted to hard northern winters. It's the largest non-hybrid pedigreed breed, with a long rectangular body, a shaggy water-resistant coat, a frontal ruff, tufted ears, snowshoe-like paws and a plumed tail. Brown tabby is the classic color, though nearly every color appears.
Often called gentle giants, many Maine Coons are sociable, playful and dog-like, following people from room to room and chirping or trilling instead of yowling. They mature slowly, often taking three to five years to reach full size. Expect to buy sturdy furniture and oversized litter boxes, set aside time for combing, and talk with your veterinarian about heart and hip health.