Maine coon cats, in general, are a force to be reckoned with, but some fur colors are a bit more majestic than others. Specifically, black Maine coon cats are some of the coolest-looking cats in the world. From about six weeks on, the lovely lion-like cats draw admirers in with their beauty, regal disposition, and calm demeanor. Let’s dive into what it’s like to have one of these black house panthers in your home, including care and other tips.
Meet the Gorgeous Black Maine Coon Cat
Adopting a cat or kitten is a big step and will add much to your life. Along with the happiness of adoption comes the cost of vet care, breed-specific food requirements, and introducing your new friend to your family. Bringing home a Maine coon kitten takes a little effort since anyone seeking a Maine coon needs to contact a Maine coon breeder or rescue if you aren’t picky about age or color.
Maine coon cats are similar to regular house cats, which tend to be domestic short-haired cats. Maine coons grow to be almost twice as large as a standard cat at potentially 25 pounds and 40 inches long. Yes, being over three feet long may be taller than your toddler. These massive felines come with extra fluffiness and the need for a lot of cuddling. They have been said to be more dog-like than cat-like in their mannerisms. They have been known to get along with other cats, dogs, and anyone else as long as you aren’t on their dinner menu.
The Best Looks Around
There’s no denying that Maine coon cats are strikingly beautiful, but the black ones have a way of being the most elegant-looking. After all, what doesn’t go with a black cat? Though Maine coon cats can come in a wide variation of colors, including those mixed with black, the Cat Fanciers’ Association does not recognize anything other than a solid black Maine Coon as meeting the standard.
Many black cats have slightly burnt cinnamon and smoke-gray hints on their coats or undercoats, which would disqualify them from the competition. The black Maine coon must have a solid black undercoat and overcoat to qualify, and if you’ve seen many black cats, you would know that to be pretty rare to see. Most black cats have a hint of dark reddish brown on the tips of their fur or a dark or light gray soft undercoat. Some black cats also have a hint of white here and there. This could be a few white hairs or a tuxedo-styled coloring. That in no way makes these cats look any less impressive than those who are solid black; it just means they would be disqualified from a cat show.
Some breeders have mentioned that kittens who become solid black cats start with small white spots that disappear as they grow into adulthood. Once they reach the lanky juvenile stage, they are well on their way to looking like the mini house panthers that they are. They are also said to be nearly 80% fully grown at one year and fully grown at five.
Black is not the most popular color of a Maine coon, at least as far as breeders go. They like to see color patterns due to specific breeding, like silver tabbies, black smoke over solid black, and other sought-after fur colors. Their demeanor, golden eye color, health, and features like the lynx-like ear tufts, lion’s mane, or long fluffy tail seem to be more of most breeders’ focus.
Getting a solid black Maine coon kitten is all up to the genetics of the parents and if there is a non-agouti gene present in either. Two solid black cats equal a solid black kitten, whereas a black tabby and a calico could create a solid black kitten.
Not Just a Pretty Face
Maine coon cats of every color are known for their laid-back, cuddly personalities. It’s one reason Maine coons are so popular, even among those who appreciate dogs more. This is because yellow-eyed, panther-like cats are commonly compared with dogs because of their friendly attitude and desire to always be near their person.
In many cultures, the black cat symbolizes luck and prosperity. However, too many people still believe the black cat to be a sign of bad luck and avoid them. That couldn’t be further from the truth. These amazing gigantic panthers are social and loving, have a purr as massive as they are, and will be your caring and devoted sidekick until their time runs out.
Tips for Life with a Black Maine Coon Cat
Maine coon cats are lovely and heavy! This adds a need to shop for cat furniture that can withstand a cat that weighs 25 pounds. Some of the window perch designs might be better suited for smaller cats. They aren’t just big; they are strong, too, so purchasing a cat tree that can withstand their weight and force while they sharpen their claws or leap onto one of the levels is important.
Overall, having a Maine coon as a roommate is not much different than other breeds of cats. They love the sun and sleep for 15 – 20 hours a day. Like all cats, they love fish and chicken and will relentlessly beg from you. Maine coon cats go after birds and rodents like the other types, also. There is a good chance that whatever you’re doing, wherever you are in your home, your Maine coon cat won’t be far away since they stick to their humans like glue. Yes, that means the bathroom, too. Congratulations, you are the proud human servant of a mini-panther.
