Orange Maine Coon: Comprehensive Guide

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As you likely know, cats make great friends, whether you live alone and desire a cat buddy or have a big family that likes pets. It’s essential to know what kind of cat you’re getting, no matter your situation.

The Maine Coon stands as one of America’s oldest natural breeds, so you’re probably familiar with their massive size, playful nature, and fluffy appearance. The Orange Maine Coon, with its striking color, may leave you wondering about how this particular bright-colored coat became a distinctive feature in the Maine Coon cat breed.

Orange Maine Coon cats are big, fluffy, and have one of the most gorgeous coats among felines. But what makes them special, and what should you keep in mind when choosing an Orange Maine Coon cat?

These could be a few questions on your mind, but don’t worry; I’ll answer all your pressing questions here. Discover everything you require to know, from their history to whether Orange Maine Coons shed or a few facts that you may not have known about this cat.

So, stick around to learn everything about this gorgeous Orange Maine Coon cat and figure out if it is right for you.

History Of Maine Coons

Similar to various cat breeds, the Maine Coon is surrounded by legends. Some stories say that the Maine Coon breed originated from a domestic cat mating with a bobcat. However, that’s not likely, and the idea that they have DNA in common with raccoons is also just a legend!

It’s more plausible that the Maine Coon’s roots trace back to cats brought over from Europe and adjusted to the cold climate of the area in their new surroundings. According to some tales, these cats were intended for a ship that Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, was supposed to board. It’s thought that these cats were either Turkish Angora or Siberian Forest Cats.

The first mention of the Maine Coon cat in writing can be found in a book known as “The Book of the Cat,” which was published in 1903. It’s also known that during the late 1860s, farmers in Maine even organized competitions to find the best “Maine State Champion Coon Cat.”

The initial cat show in North America was held in 1895, and Maine Coon cats were exhibited proudly. Interestingly, a female brown tabby Maine Coon called Cosey was crowned best in the show! Today, her silver trophy collar is showcased in the offices of the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

How the Orange Maine Coon Cats Gained Fame

All Maine Coon colors were widely appreciated as barn cats all across New England. Their affectionate natures also made them beloved family pets. As cat shows gained fame, orange Maine Coon cats became a common sight. However, with the introduction of European breeds, such as the Persian, local breeds like the Maine Coon fell out of favor. After 1911, fewer Maine Coon cats were showcased in cat shows.

The situation became so critical that the entire breed was registered as extinct in the 1950s. Fortunately, around the same time, the Central Maine Cat Club was formed, playing an essential role in reviving the breed. They not only brought the Maine Coon back but also created the first official breed standard, which mentioned orange Maine Coon cats as one of the accepted colors!

From almost becoming extinct, the orange Maine Coon has transformed into one of the most famous cat breeds worldwide.

Official Recognition of The Maine Coon Cat

The Independent Cat Federation officially recognized the Maine Coon breed in 1969. Despite three rejections of provisional status by the Cat Fanciers’ Association, they were ultimately accepted in 1975. The Maine Coon Cat Club was formed in 1973, and The International Cat Association accepted the breed in 1979. In 1985, Maine declared the Maine Coon, their formal state cat.

How To Identify an Orange Maine Coon

Identifying this cat can be slightly challenging, so it’s essential to know particular features that only Maine Coons have.

This breed has big and messy fur that helps keep them warm during winter weather. Their fur feels a little oily, which helps keep the cat dry. If you desire an orange Maine Coon, the cat will have an orange coat.

Maine Coons have a special interest in water, and they are also the largest cat breed out there. So, when they’re fully grown after about four years, you can expect a sizable cat. However, these characteristics are not as noticeable when they are kittens. Therefore, it’s best to learn how to identify if your kitten is a Maine Coon.

Discover Some Fascinating Facts About Orange Maine Coon Breed

All the kittens of two orange Maine Coon cats will be orange when they are bred together!

The majority of orange Maine Coon cats are males. Only one out of every five orange Maine Coon cats will be female.

In the majority breed standards, the orange Maine Coon cat is technically described as red.

Maine Coon cats of any color can reach weights of up to 25 pounds, with males generally being bigger than females.

Orange Maine Coon cats often love water, so if you have a pond in your backyard, don’t be shocked to see your kitty playing at the edges or even stepping in!

Numerous orange Maine Coon cats develop fascinating freckles around their eyes, lips, and nose. These are generally harmless pigmentations, so it’s always best to have them checked by your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

The dense coat of the orange Maine Coon is specially designed to keep them warm through the winter weather. Their big paws even act as snowshoes, distributing their weight over a large area.

Orange Maine Coons are classified into five formal patterns: Red Classic Tabby Maine Coon, Red Smoked Maine Coon, Solid Red Maine Coon, Red Ticked Tabby Maine Coon, and Red Mackerel Tabby Maine Coon. They are sometimes referred to as Ginger Maine Coon cats.

You may also be interested in: Maine Coon ears.

Characteristics Of Orange Maine Coon

The characteristics of orange Maine Coon cats are usually similar to those of other Maine Coon colors. However, some owners do claim their orange Maine Coon cats tend to be a bit more mischievous!

Whether this is true or not, we cannot say, as there is no evidence to substantiate such claims.

If you have purchased a purebred orange Maine Coon, here are some things you may notice about them:

Loyal
Playful
Friendly
Highly Smart
Gentle
Good hunters
Like Water
Excessively affectionate
Good with other house pets

1. Loyal

The Maine Coon stands out as one of the most loyal cat breeds ever. They have a deep affection for their human families and seldom stray from their owner’s side. If given the choice, they would probably choose to spend every waking moment with you. These Maine Coon cats are highly sociable and thrive when they can spend sufficient time with their owners.

2. Playful

Maine Coon cats are known for their playful nature. They possess a natural curiosity and take pleasure in exploring and playing part of the most for their lives. They also love to play with toys, so it’s essential to provide them with good toys.

3. Friendly

If you have a male Maine Coon, you’ll probably notice they are more openly friendly to strangers compared to their female counterparts. This is not because the female Maine Coons are less friendly; in fact, they are frequently more reserved and cautious around newcomers. Gradually, the female Maine Coon will become more relaxed and warm up to others.

4. Highly Smart

Maine Coon cats are highly smart and can easily learn tricks and commands. Their quick thinking not only adds to their charm but also makes them engaging companions.

5. Gentle

They’re called ‘gentle giants’ because of their soft nature. These big cats are anything but aggressive in nature and rarely hiss or spit. They’re so easygoing that it looks like nothing bothers them!

But a few times, they also show some behavioral problems due to various reasons.

6. Good hunters

Maine coon cats are really good at hunting, so you should expect a few animal ‘presents’ during their lifetime. Even though seeing a dead animal may gross you out, it’s necessary to understand that your Maine Coon is just trying to show love for you.

7. Like water

Maine coon cats are really obsessed with water; they just love it. They can spend plenty of time playing with water, such as patting it out of the water bowl. Maine Coon cats are also great swimmers. Numerous owners report that their Maine Coons enjoy splashing around in the bath!

8. Excessively affectionate

Maine Coon cats are well-known for their affectionate nature. They often seek out their owners for cuddles and attention, even if it’s not always returned.

9. Good with other house pets

Because of their laidback nature, Maine Coons are among the best choices to bring into your home if you already have another animal living with you. Their natural instinct is to make friends with other animals, so it’s unlikely they would cause any problems with your existing pets.

Average Size of Orange Maine Coon

Maine Coon cats are popular for their significant size, often being recognized as the largest breed of domesticated cat in the world. Here is a breakdown of their size traits.

1. Male Orange Maine Coon Size

Weight: Males Maine Coons can weigh between 6 to 8 kg on average.

Length: Male Maine Coons can achieve an impressive length of up to 40 inches.

Height: The height of an adult male Maine Coons can vary between 25 to 41 cm on average.

2. Female Orange Maine Coon Size

Weight: Females Maine Coons can weigh between 3.5 to 5.5 kg on average.

Length: Female Maine Coons fall within a comparable length range of 19 to 40 inches.

Height: A typical female Maine Coons will be 20 to 35.5 cm tall.

Maine Coon cats grow slowly, normally taking 4 to 5 years to reach their full size. It’s necessary to monitor their diet to avoid obesity, which is a common problem in this breed.

Things To Know Before Getting an Orange Maine Coon

Before you get an orange Maine Coon, it’s essential to understand a few key points, like the best environment for them and how they can cost.

1. Cost of an Orange Maine Coon

Orange Maine Coon kittens, being pedigree, come with a higher price tag, but it is well worth the extra expense. If you’re buying an orange Maine Coon kitten from a breeder, be prepared to spend between $800 and $1,500 per kitten.

If that is too pricey for you, adoption is another option. Remember that it may take some time, and there’s no guarantee of getting a purebred orange Maine Coon. Adopting a cat is a great way to help out, and you can anticipate spending between $100 and $400, depending on if it’s an older cat or a kitten.

2. Establishing, Essentials, and Average Monthly Cost

After purchasing a cat, it’s important to make sure they receive all necessary vaccinations and undergo spaying or neutering. You also need to get supplies like food, a cat bed and other essentials to keep your cat happy. Expect these initial costs to range between $350 and $1,500.

After establishing your cat’s environment and ensuring their comfort, monthly expenses range between $90 and $250. These costs include healthcare, pet insurance, food, medication, and litter box maintenance. Keep in mind that orange Maine Coon cats, being big cats, may incur higher expenses compared to other cat breeds.

3. Are Orange Maine Coons Suitable Travel Companions

If you’re a digital nomad or someone who likes travelling, you might wonder if the orange Maine Coon cats handle travelling well. In short, yes, they can adapt to a travelling lifestyle, although the adjustment might take some time.

Similar to any cat, the orange Maine Coon will require time to get used to the new way of life, as moving to a new environment can be confusing for your cat. It’s advisable to learn all the tips and tricks for your road trip with a cat before embarking on your travels together.

Caring for Orange Maine Coons: 4 Essential Tips

Now that you have an idea of how much to budget for an orange Maine Coon, read these essential tips to learn how to care for your feline companion.

1. Exercise Requirements of Orange Maine Coons

Orange Maine Coon cats are normally active and are more than happy to wander outside alone. However, Maine Coon cats have a tendency to get obese if they spend most of their time indoors. So, it’s important to monitor your Maine Coon’s weight correctly.

While it may be tricky to detect obesity in your Maine Coon cat due to their long-haired coats, your vocal veterinarian can help you identify obesity in your cat. With your vet’s guidance, you can get your orange Maine Coon cat on a diet, and it’s best to promote exercise, especially if your cat doesn’t like going outside.

2. Training Your Orange Maine Coon

Orange Maine Coon cats are frequently referred to as the dogs of the cat world, and they react well to training. These smart Maine Coon cats quickly understand commands, especially when you use positive reinforcement. I recommend using cat treats and pet training clickers for efficient training.

3. Diet Of Orange Maine Coon Cat

For your fairly active orange Maine Coon cat, it’s advisable to give them food that contains high protein levels. Choose food without extra chemicals or artificial flavors because those may not be suitable for your orange Maine Coon. You can pick dry, wet, or raw food for your orange Maine Coon, based on your budget.

4. Grooming Your Orange Maine Coon

Orange Maine Coon have a pretty, thick coat below their famous orange fur. To avoid tangles in your cat’s hair, brush them at least two times a week. You need to brush them four times a week if your Orange Maine Coon goes outside.

It will be harder for you to groom your cats when they become adults, so start grooming them when they are kittens; they also like grooming.

View 13 Charming & Popular Maine Coon Mixes.

Popular Orange Maine Coon, Named Nacho

On the morning of October 17, Bobby Flay, the celebrity chef and star of Food Network, shared the sad news on Instagram that his beloved nine-year-old orange Maine Coon cat, Nacho, has passed away. Nacho’s owner called on all pet owners to give their furry friends some extra love in light of his loss.

Where To Find Orange Maine Coons

If you’re thinking about adding an orange Maine Coon cat to your family, there are various methods to find one:

1. Registered Maine Coon Breeders

To ensure you get a healthy and well-cared-for cat, it’s recommended to buy from a registered Maine Coon cat breeder. These breeders prioritize the well-being of their cats and can furnish them with purebred paperwork and pedigree status.

2. Rescue Centers & Animal Shelters

Consider bringing home an orange Maine Coon from an animal shelter or rescue centre. Sometimes, you may get these unique cats at a lower price while providing a loving home to a cat in need.

3. Pet Shops

Sometimes, you can locate Maine Coon kittens for sale in local pet shops, but it may be slightly challenging to find a specific color variant, such as orange.

4. Online Platforms

Online platforms like Facebook, Gumtree, or Craigslist might have listings for Maine Coon kittens. Be careful when using these platforms, and remember to be safe when doing things online.

Read Also: Can a Maine Coon have short hair?

Orange Maine Coon Health Problems

Like any other pedigree cat, the orange Maine Coon cats may have health problems because of their genes. It’s important to monitor their health.

Minor Health Problems

Your orange Maine Coon cat may have some minor health problems. They are relatively easy to treat, and if you treat them correctly, they shouldn’t hinder your cat’s quality of life.

Obesity
Stomatitis
Periodontal disease

Major Health Problems

Besides the minor problems your orange Maine Coon cat may have, there are some more severe health problems, some of which can be treated, that your cat might experience.

Hip Dysplasia
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Polycystic Kidney disease

Read Also: Are Maine Coon Hypoallergenic.

Conclusion

Orange Maine Coon cats are gorgeous pets with pretty coats and lovely personalities. Once you welcome an orange Maine Coon cat into your life, everything changes. These big and affectionate cats will make you wonder what you did with your time before they arrived. Maine Coon cats are adorable, enjoy having fun, and love spending time with their families.

If we look at the orange Maine Coon, we notice different types of ‘orange coloring’ like smokey, stripped, and tabby markings. Numerous of them have freckles on their face, adding to their beauty. The orange Maine Coon fur comes from a mix of yellow and red. Therefore, if you’re hoping to locate a solid orange Maine Coon, you will quickly realize that they are somewhat rare since most of them have some markings on their bodies.

Looking for more Maine Coon Cat colors? Our guides covers plenty, including white, black, black smoke, black and white!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are orange Maine Coon cats rare?

The orange Maine Coon cats are extremely rare, and they are also referred to as ginger, marmalade or sandy, but this color coat is officially classified as red by the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

What is the Cost of an orange Maine Coon cat?

If you’re purchasing an orange Maine Coon kitten from a breeder, expect to invest between $800 and $1,500 per kitten.

Do Maine Coon cats grow faster?

Maine Coon cats grow bigger than other cat breeds and achieve their full size when they’re four or five years old.