Читать книгу 77 Things to Know Before Getting a Cat - Susan Ewing M. - Страница 18

The Maine Coon is the official cat of the state of Maine, where the breed’s long coat, tufted ears, and large, well-furred paws make it well adapted to New England winters. This is a large, solidly built cat that weighs between 9 and 18 pounds (4.1–8.2 kg).

Devon Rex

Exotic Shorthair kitten

Maine Coon Cats are playful, affectionate, and social. They want to be where their people are. They also enjoy playing in water, so don’t be surprised if you find a catnip mouse floating in your Maine Coon’s water bowl.

Health issues include HCM, hip dysplasia, and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The Maine Coon Cat is the only cat breed affected by SMA, a disease caused by the death of spinal cord neurons, leading to muscle weakness and degeneration. Kittens with SMA have difficulty jumping and have a swaying gait, but they are not in pain and can live happy lives. Fortunately, there is a DNA test for this condition. There’s also a test for the genetic mutation that causes HCM, so make sure that the breeder has tested both parents.