When it comes to Maine Coons, the hype surrounding the XXL Maine Coon often comes up. Owning a gigantic feline is a dream for many, but this dream can quickly turn into a disillusionment.
A simple search on Google with the term "Maine Coon" will easily bring up images of cats with impressive sizes. However, it is essential to remain vigilant when viewing photos shared on social media, as the angle at which the photo is taken plays a significant role in the apparent size of the cat. Moreover, how the cats are held, often at arm's length, further accentuates the illusion of gigantism. It's important to remember that when a slim person holds a Maine Coon at arm's length, it can easily give the illusion of a cat much larger than it really is.
Many people aspire to own a large and massive Maine Coon, and some breeders claim to offer XXL Maine Coons in their cattery. However, it is essential to remember that the Maine Coon is, above all, a large cat, but not an obese one. Its weight varies depending on its sex and bloodlines, ranging from 4 to 10 kg. Males are generally larger than females. The ideal weight of a Maine Coon is determined by a veterinarian, and a cat weighing 15 kg under the pretense of being "healthy" raises concerns. Nonetheless, the Maine Coon remains one of the most majestic cat breeds, and it will always be larger than most other cats.
It is crucial not to be misled: the XXL Maine Coon does exist, but it is not as extraordinary as it seems.
So, should you search for an XXL Maine Coon?
The answer is clear: no.
Anyone claiming to have XXL Maine Coons should raise your suspicion. While some individuals are naturally larger than others, like humans, breeding large sizes together increases the risk of inbreeding. This results in a higher predisposition to genetic diseases, as DNA defects are more easily passed on to future generations.
The Maine Coon's morphology has evolved optimally for its species, taking into account its needs. This structure, including organs and bones, is designed for the average size of the breed. An excessively large size can lead to serious health problems. For instance, did you know that the Maine Coon is one of the few cat breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia?
A Maine Coon's growth fully completes around the age of 4 to 5 years. Before the age of 2, it's still too early to judge its final size. Patience is required. A good indication of its future size can be obtained by observing its parents during a visit to the cattery. However, remember that size should not be the sole criterion for a quality Maine Coon.
In conclusion, searching for an XXL Maine Coon should never be a priority. The Maine Coon is already an impressive cat with its size and charisma. This majestic feline will always stand out with its unique presence, without the need for exaggerated proportions.
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