Smoke Maine Coon: Comprehensive Guide

The smoke Maine Coon cat is a gorgeous addition to have in any family. You may be wondering what makes this kind of Maine Coon special.

The smoke Maine Coon looks special because of the bands on its fur, making it appear smoky. The tips of the cat’s fur are generally dark, like black, but the rest of the fur is lighter. Smoked Maine Coon cats come in a wide range of colors, including black, blue, red (orange), cream, and more.

At first look, a smoke Maine Coon cat may look similar to any solid Maine Coon, but if you take a closer look, you’ll be able to see why cat lovers really appreciate this special fur color.

Smoke Maine Coon are intelligent, active, large, and affectionate cats making them fantastic companions and pets.

Keep reading to learn everything about smoke Maine Coon, including their colors and pattern, characteristics, and how to find a smoke Maine Coon for yourself.

The Amazing Smoke Maine Coon

According to a cat expert, the points of a smoke Maine Coon cat, like the face, tail, ears, and feet, are generally darker than the rest of the body. At the same time, the fur around the cat’s neck, called the mane, tends to appear slightly lighter. People really desire this coloring in Maine Coon cats because it looks so beautiful.

By simply stroking your cat’s fur differently, you can observe a lighter layer underneath, making it seem like your cat is changing colors.

Maine Coon cats originated as tabbies, and you might be curious about how their distinctive coat patterns came to be. The genetics behind smoked fur can be a little complicated, so here’s a simple explanation.

It’s important to mention that some gene kinds require a cat to have a smoke coat pattern. These include:

• A hidden gene called Recessive Non-Agouti (which is also known as non-tabby)
• A strong gene called Dominant Silver
• Wideband gene

Because the gene for a non-tabby cat is recessive, even if a cat looks like a tabby, it may still have the non-tabby gene.

If two tabby cats both have the recessive non-agouti gene, there’s a possibility their kittens may have a single color.

Different Colors of Smoke Maine Coon

Smoke Maine Coon cats are accessible to purchase in six distinct colors. The table below shows the six variations of smoke Maine Coon colors:

For additional details on each smoke Maine Coon color, see our detailed descriptions given below:

• Black Smoke: A black smoke Maine Coon is likely the most usual. The black coloration in cats comes from a pigmentation called eumelanin. In a black smoke Maine Coon, the fur has black tips with a lighter undercoat whose roots are stark white.

 

• Cream Smoke: Similar to how blue is a diluted form of black, cream is a diluted form of red. The fur of a cream smoke Maine Coon has tipped in cream or light orange, while the base of the fur is white.

 

• Blue Smoke: A blue smoke Maine Coon also has eumelanin, just like a black smoke Maine Coon. Essentially, blue is a variety of black but is known as “diluted.” If a black cat carries a dilute gene, the eumelanin pigment in its kitty cats can be diluted, resulting in a gray color, which breeders call blue.

 

• Red Smoke: Red smoke Maine Coon cats are stunning to look at, with red or orange-tipped fur and a light undercoat. The red color in cats is attributed to the pigment pheomelanin; interestingly, this pigmentation is also sex-linked. It means a cat can only be red if its parent of the same sex also possesses a red coat.

 

• Tortie Smoke: A cat that inherits both black and red pigmentations is called a tortoiseshell or tortie. In a tortie-smoke Maine Coon, there are brindled patches of fur tipped in either red or black. However, just like all other smoked Maine Coon cats, the hair’s base is paler.

 

• Blue Tortie Smoke: If a cat inherits both diluted black and red pigmentations, it is known as a blue tortie. Blue tortie smokes have brindled patches of fur tipped in shades of cream and blue, with a pale undercoat.

Patterns of Smoke Maine Coon

According to The Cat Fanciers’ Association, smoked Maine Coons can have three different patterns:

• Solid: This is the most ordinary fur pattern for smoked Maine Coons, and it is when the cat is one color all over.

 

• Solid and White: Solid and white smoke Maine Coon cats have a single coat color with patches of white. Commonly, the cat’s paws, bib, and stomach are white, whereas the rest of the body is one solid color.

 

• Calico: This pattern is similar to tortie smoke cat as it includes patches of black and red (or diluted versions), but these patches must be unbridled, and the base of the cat’s coat can also be white.

For more information about the captivating Calico Maine Coon, check out my article titled ‘Calico Maine Coon.”

3 Surprising Facts About Smoke Maine Coon

1.    Largest Cat Breed in The World

The Maine Coon cat, including the smoke Maine Coon variant, is the world’s largest cat. A full-grown Maine Coon cat can achieve a weight of 15 to 25 pounds.

2.    Smoke Maine Coons Are Native to America

The precise origin of these cats in America is uncertain, but they have been here since colonial times. Various theories surround this arrival, but the most probable reason is that they are descendants of long-haired cats that lived aboard ships to remove rats and mice.

3.    Smoke Maine Coons Really Enjoy Playing with Water

Unlike numerous cats that prevent water, the Smokey Maine Coon cat actually enjoys being around water and likes to play in it. You can frequently find them in the shower after you leave, and they may even join you for a brief time.

Personality of Smoke Maine Coon

Maine Coon cats, especially the Smoke variety, are popular for being friendly and loving. They stay energetic and playful even when they get old. They are wary of strangers, but they become friends fast. They tend to stay close but usually don’t climb on you or sit on your lap.

The smoke Maine Coon cat is highly smart, capable of solving simple issues and accomplishing small tasks. Similar to other cats, they have a natural curiosity and will watch you closely to get what they want. They may gently tap you to communicate and frequently lead you to the source of their issue.

You may also be interested in: Can a Maine Coon have short hair?

Exercise

Fortunately, cats get most of the exercise they require on their own. Yet, spending 15 to 30 minutes per day playing with your smoke Maine Coon cat is beneficial. It assists in keeping them fit and provides an opportunity to strengthen your bond. Having playtime right before bed can also assist them in using up extra energy, decreasing the chances of your pet being too lively and keeping you awake at night.

Training

The smoke Maine Coon is a highly smart pet. While you can’t train them exactly like dogs, they can learn a few tricks if they know they will get treats. Cats have a remarkably exact internal clock. If you require a reminder to take medications and have trouble remembering, experts suggest treating your cat at that time. They will probably remind you each day.

Grooming

The smoke Maine Coon, with its long hair, requires often brushing to keep the fur from becoming matted and tangled, particularly on the back legs. Start by using a metal comb to reach the undercoat, then use a soft-bristled brush to go over the top coat and eliminate loose hairs and dander.

Food & Dietary Requirements

Your smoke Maine Coon cat may need more food as compared to other cats. Look at the package for directions, which will tell you how much to feed based on their weight. Dry cat food is recommended because it has all the nutrition they require.

The dry cat food keeps their teeth clean. Tooth problems are very common in cats, so it is very important to avoid them. Do what you can, like brushing your cat’s teeth with the cat’s toothpaste to help them keep healthy.

Are Smoke Maine Coons Common?

Smoke Maine Coon cats are not very common because to breed them, the kittens must have three different genes:

• A hidden gene called Recessive Non-Agouti (which is also known as non-tabby)
• Wideband gene
• A strong gene called Dominant Silver

While smoke Maine Coon cats are rare, they are still accepted in competitions organized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

Other Smoke Colored Cat Breeds

Maine Coon cats are not only the cat breeds that can have smoke coloration. Here are certain other cat breeds that can come in smoke:

• Persian
• American Curl
• Norwegian Forest Cat
• American Shorthair
• Siberian
• Turkish Angora
• Selkirk Rex
• Manx
• Scottish Fold
• LaPerm
• Ragamuffin

Price of Smoke Maine Coons

As smoke Maine Coon cats are rare, they can be quite pricey. The price of a smoke Maine Coon can range from $2,000 to $4,000. Unless you’re fortunate enough to find one accessible for adoption at a shelter, you’ll require a lot of extra money on hand if you desire to bring one home.

Locating Smoke Maine Coon Breeders

It is important to research before getting a Maine Coon. The Following are some things to consider when picking a breeder:

• Registration: Before selecting a breeder, ensure the breeder is registered with organizations like TICA and CFA.

 

• Visit The Place: An honest breeder will always be truthful with you and allow you to see where the cats live. If they say no, you should look for any other breeder because it is a warning.

 

• Online Reviews: Read online reviews from people who bought cats from those breeders. Many bad reviews mean you should look elsewhere.

Some breeders focus on the colors of the Maine Coon like smoke. If you want a Smoke Maine Coon and living in the US, you can check these breeders:

• Mountain Fork Maine Coons
• Riggs Maine Coon Cattery
• Zeus Pride

Purchasing Smoke Maine Coon kittens

If you’re thinking about purchasing a smoke Maine Coon kitten, you should keep in mind that they can be pricey. Ensure the person selling the kitten is certified because some sellers may not be honest. Also, keep in mind that a kitten’s color, particularly with smoke cats, can change as they grow up. A kitten may seem like a smoke cat when it’s young, but it may not be a smoke cat at all when it becomes an adult. That’s why purchasing from reputable breeders is very necessary.

Popular Smoke Maine Coons

The most popular smoke Maine Coon was named Valkyrie, a black smoke Maine Coon owned by a person named Tatiana Rastorgueva. Tatiana Rastorgueva, from Russia, has worked very hard for many years to breed cats like Valkyrie. Valkyrie is a cat that seems a little like a human, and numerous people find her interesting.

Health Issues in Smoke Maine Coons

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a condition that causes the muscular walls of a cat’s heart to thicken, decreasing the heart’s efficiency and, at times, resulting in symptoms affecting other parts of the body.

 

• Hip Dysplasia: In a cat affected by hip dysplasia, the ball and socket are misaligned and loose, hindering the smooth movement of the femoral head.

 

• Obesity: Obesity is becoming a prevalent problem in cats, and it can cause a long list of other health problems that may shorten your pet’s lifespan. Additionally, it can make it difficult to breathe and clean themselves.

 

• Patellar Luxation: A patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal groove, either shifting outside or inside.

 

• Polycystic Kidney Disease: Polycystic kidney disease is an illness that can affect both cats and other animals, including humans. Usually known as autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), it causes the development of fluid-filled sacs, named cysts, in the kidneys.

 

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic issue that some Maine Coons have. It causes the nerves to go away, which helps control muscles in their legs. It leads to muscle weakness, and you can see symptoms when they are about 3 to 4 years old.

 

• Renal Failure: Renal failure means kidney failure; the kidney stops working properly. It can happen due to different reasons like tumors, infections, or eating something dangerous.

 

• Stomatitis: Stomatitis is a serious mouth problem. It is more serious than gingivitis. It will affect other parts of the mouth other than the gums. It pains a lot, cats find it hard to eat during this condition. Because it hurts, a cat might lose weight. They might not groom themselves, and their fur looks.

RELATED: Are Maine Coon Hypoallergenic.

Male Vs. Female

Male smoke Maine Coon are bigger than female Maine Coon, so male Maine Coon require more space in the house when they grow up. Males also like attention and want to be around people. While female Maine Coon like to spend time alone and are more independent.

Are These Cats Suitable for Families?

Yes, the smoke Maine Coon cat is sociable and a perfect choice for families. Their big eyes and appearance attract both adults and kids. They are also strong enough to deal with cheerful pastimes with kids without violence.

Does This Cat Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

Smoke Maine Coon is approachable with other pets. While they might initially be a little cautious around new animals. They play with both cats and dogs. Their size prevents other pets from becoming aggressive.

Conclusion

The smoke Maine Coon is a wonderful cat and a great family pet. They are very friendly and considered healthy. They like being close to family members and getting along with other pets.

Although smoke Maine Coon cats are both pricey and rare, their coat coloration is so pretty that most cat owners agree they are definitely worth the money.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our detailed exploration of these cats and decided to add one to your family.

See Also: Black Maine Coon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Maine Coon cats have gold eyes?

Purebred Maine Coons commonly have yellow/gold or green eyes.

Are 100% black cats uncommon?

Locating a cat that is 100% black, from its head to its toes, is uncommon.

You may also be interested in: Why the polydactyl Maine Coon is multi-toed.

What is a smoke Maine Coon?

A smoke Maine Coon is a particular type of Maine Coon cat with a unique coat. The coat is typically black but can come in various other colors.