Greetings! As many people do, I wonder if I have lucked into a Maine Coon.

I found a bedraggled, scrawny, but remarkably friendly cat who had lost a lot of fur. I was only going to leave food out for him, but he one persisted in wrapping around my legs day after day. What could I do but take him in?

Long story short, he turned from starving wreck into the most beautiful and affectionate animal I have ever owned. He is a LARGE (neutered) male, althought there were only 8 pounds on his huge frame when I found him (15 lbs now). Gorgeous long fur(but not at all Persian-like in face shape), silver tabby dominated by white, with a beautiful white ruff and "muttonchops" on his face, the longest between-the-pads paw fur I've ever seen, and a charming personality. He loves everyone, and follows me around throughout the day. Also he has huge eyes - the whites of his eyes are often visible at the corners.

I am concerned about his breed in case he might be subject to some sort of genetic trouble later, although he is currently very healthy and robust. I suspect he is a purebred purely because he is so incredibly beautiful - I've had some pretty good-looking "mutts", but he is really remarkable. I looked for previous owners (they *must* have missed him), but no luck.

Thank you for your time. Jennifer M. Myers

-- Anonymous, May 26, 1999

Answers

Sure sounds like you have found a Maine Coon....or at least a cat whose ancestors have come across a Maine Coon somewhere along the line! You might want to go to one of the many CFA or TICA cat shows which happen around the US and Canada and look at some of the purebred MCs there. Don't be surprised if the breeders smile at lot when you say, "I think I have a MC cat.....we hear that comment a lot! However, you will be interested in seeing the "real thing". Take along some pictures of your cat too. Also, how about entering him in the household pet section of a show and see how beautiful the judges think he is? For more info on where to find cat shows in your area, I could probably give you some info if you e-mail me back.

-- Anonymous, May 27, 1999