Maine Coon cats are one of the most recognizable and beloved cat breeds in the world. Bred in the Northeastern United States, Maine Coon cats are known for their striking appearance, playful personalities, and large size. But just how big are Maine Coon cats?
Are Maine Coon Cats Big?
Maine Coon cats are, in fact, quite large. The average weight of a full-grown adult male Maine Coon is between 13 and 18 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, typically weighing between 8 and 12 pounds. In comparison to other breeds, Maine Coon cats are some of the largest, rivaled only by the Siberian cat.
Size Comparison to Other Breeds
When comparing the size of Maine Coon cats to other breeds, some of the most notable differences can be seen when placed side by side with breeds like Siamese cats or Persian cats. Siamese cats are typically much smaller than Maine Coons, with an average weight of only 5 to 10 pounds. Similarly, Persian cats are usually much smaller, weighing an average of 7 to 12 pounds. In comparison, Maine Coon cats are much larger in size.
Growth Rate
In addition to being larger than other breeds, Maine Coon cats have a much slower growth rate. Most cats reach their full size by the time they are two years old, but Maine Coon cats can take up to four years to reach their full size. This is due to their unique genetic makeup, which allows them to grow more slowly than other breeds.
Conclusion
Maine Coon cats are, in fact, some of the largest cats in the world. They typically weigh between 8 and 18 pounds, making them much larger than other breeds like Siamese and Persian cats. In addition, Maine Coon cats have a much slower growth rate, taking up to four years to reach their full size. All of these factors combine to make Maine Coon cats some of the most beloved and impressive cats around.