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Maine coon cat
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Maine coon cat

breed of cat
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Maine coon cat, North America’s only native breed of longhaired domestic cat. Though its origins are unknown, it was first shown in Boston in 1878. Maines are large, muscular, and heavy-boned; they may have been named for their raccoon-like tail. Excellent mousers, they are known for their gentleness, intelligence, and kind disposition, and are especially good with children and dogs. Most are brown tabbies.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Letricia Dixon.