Maine Coons are renowned for their impressive size, often called “gentle giants.” But just how big are they, and what contributes to their stature? This article delves into the factors that make Maine Coons the largest domesticated cat breed.
Maine Coons are significantly larger than average domestic cats. While online photos can sometimes exaggerate their size due to camera angles, their substantial build is undeniable. A fully grown male Maine Coon can weigh between 15 to 25 pounds and measure up to 40 inches in length, from nose to the tip of their magnificent tail. Their tails alone can reach an astounding 12 to 18 inches, contributing significantly to their overall length. This impressive tail length is a defining characteristic of the breed, recognized by The International Cat Association, stating that a Maine Coon’s tail should reach their shoulder blades when pulled forward.
While males are generally larger, female Maine Coons are still bigger than most domestic cats, typically weighing 10 to 15 pounds and measuring around 30 inches long. To illustrate the difference, let’s compare the average size of Maine Coons to regular domestic cats:
Maine Coon vs. Regular Cat Size Comparison
| Cat Feature | Maine Coon | Normal Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10 – 20 pounds (4.5 – 9 kgs) | 8 – 12 pounds (3.6 – 5.4 kgs) |
| Height to shoulder | 10 – 16 inches (25.4 – 40.6 cm) | 9 – 10 inches (22.9 – 25.4 cm) |
| Body length, nose to tail base | 19 – 30 inches (48.3 – 76.2 cm) | 15 – 20 inches (38.1 – 50.8 cm) |
| Tail length | 12 – 18 inches (30.5 – 45.7 cm) | 9 – 10 inches (22.9 – 25.4 cm) |
Female Maine Coon vs. Regular Female Cat Size Comparison
| Cat Feature | Female Maine Coon | Female Normal Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10 – 15 pounds (4.5 – 6.8 kgs) | 8 – 10 pounds (3.6 – 4.5 kgs) |
| Height to shoulder | 10 – 14 inches (25.4 – 35.6 cm) | 9 inches (22.9 cm) |
| Body length, nose to tail base | 19 – 30 inches (48.3- 76.2 cm) | 15 – 20 inches (38.1 – 50.4 cm) |
| Tail length | 12 – 18 inches (30.5 – 45.7 cm) | 10 inches (25.4 cm) |
It’s important to remember that these are average sizes, and individual Maine Coons can vary. Their large size, coupled with their gentle nature and playful personalities, makes them a beloved breed for many cat enthusiasts. They are truly gentle giants of the feline world.
