Maine Coon Cat Behavior and Traits

Quirks, Traits, and More!

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

This section is all about unique Maine Coon cat behavior and characteristics.

From their outgoing personality to their clown-like antics, there is a lot to say about these special guys and gals!

If you are here, you must be a fan of this amazing breed! 🐱

You'll love our Magazine and Member's Area, where you can connect with all kinds of fellow Coonie lovers - from experienced owners to future owners, to breeders. Lots of exclusive content to download, too!

There is nothing average or ordinary about them! Let's talk about all the special traits and qualities that set them apart from the crowd.

How would you describe them? Unique, funny, loyal, smart, boisterous, friendly... just for starters!

That Big Personality

pretty brown tabby maine coon cat with white paws

There is no doubt they have character! They really have a way of captivating almost anyone. And kitten behavior is so rambunctious!

This breed is slow to mature, so they keep that kitten behavior for years.

They can win over even the most hardened "strictly-dog-person"! I like to say that they are the Golden Retrievers of the feline world.

Gentle, sweet, playful, and totally affectionate. Read more about that wonderful personality.

When folks are asked what their favorite trait is, the most common answer is personality.

They each have their own "way" about them, and often seem more like people than felines. It helps that they are incredibly smart, too!

Vocalizing is a Maine Coon Cat Behavior!

So Many Sounds:
You can't talk about Maine Coon cat behavior without mentioning their voice. Have you ever heard a Coon speak? It is a very distinctive sound.

It really sounds like they're talking to you! What do the experts say? Can they really talk?

Some say that this breed hardly ever makes a sound, and when they do, it's a very small sound. Others describe them as being very vocal, with a large repertoire of sounds.

two ginger maine coon cats grooming each other

So which is it? Well, they definitely have their own voice. It is a distinctive sound. They have a variety of friendly chirps, which they are known for, along with a particular "trill" sound.

And they can loudly howl when they want. In general, they sound much like most felines, but with a "twist".

These pets are so much fun to have around! They are about as close to being a dog as possible.

You may find yourself looking at your boy or girl and asking, "do you think he knows he's not a person?" This Maine Coon cat behavior probably sounds familiar to you, too.

All About Purring

Expect lots of purring! Since they are so very affectionate and happy, this is a common behavior! But how does a happy kitty purr?

Learn about the mechanics of purring and take a peek into the psyche of your purring friend.

Also, what other quirky little things do our furry friends do when they are super happy?

Water Cats

An infamous Maine Coon cat behavior is water play. Who ever said they must hate water? Does yours get in the shower with you, or enjoy splashing in a sink full of water?

I thought this was a hoot when our kittens were small. Little did I know then, that loving water play is a definite trait of the breed!

This section includes a little video of Leo and Alice checking out the bathtub.

Defining Traits

Myth: Cats don’t play fetch.
Fact: Some cats, especially curious and playful breeds, love to play fetch!

It’s a common misconception that fetch is strictly a "dog thing," and that teaching a cat to fetch is somehow training them to act against their nature.

But in reality, fetch is just another fun way for active, intelligent cats - especially Maine Coons - to bond with their humans!

Maine Coons, known for their dog-like loyalty and playfulness, are often natural fetch enthusiasts.

Some will find a favorite toy and drop it at your feet with a meaningful look that says, "Your turn!" The game appeals to their natural hunting instincts, engaging both their curiosity and their desire to "stalk" a target.

Fetch isn’t about making a cat behave like a dog; it’s simply playtime that suits a Maine Coon's playful, interactive personality.

If your Coonie hasn't tried fetch yet, you can introduce it by tossing a lightweight toy - something soft and easy to carry. Give it a few tries; you might be surprised to find them bringing it back for more!

The best part? This simple game not only keeps them physically active but also mentally stimulated, which is especially helpful for indoor Maine Coons who need regular outlets for all that energy.

Defining Traits

Has all this talk of Maine Coon cat behavior left you wondering if you have one? Or a mix? Explore these pages to learn about some common tell-tale traits.

Although kittens are sold by breeders and have a pedigree, some end up being rescued or adopted.

Even if your kitty doesn't have a cat pedigree, you might still have a Coonie or a mix on your hands.

Gifts and Tokens

One of the most endearing (and sometimes surprising) traits of a Maine Coon is their tendency to bring "gifts" to their owners.

Whether it's a favorite toy, a piece of string, or—if they're outdoor explorers—a small critter from the garden, these offerings are a true testament to their affectionate and loyal nature.

In the wild, cats often bring their catch to share with their family, and for your Maine Coon, you are their family.

This behavior harks back to their hunting instincts, but it's also their way of showing they care.

When your Maine Coon proudly drops a toy at your feet, they're not just playing—they’re sharing a moment with you, inviting you to join in the fun.

black maine coon cat with toy mouse in its mouth

While the "gifts" may not always be what you expect (or want!), it's important to remember that in their world, it’s a sign of love and respect.

So, the next time your Coonie presents you with a toy mouse or a feather, take it as a heartfelt gesture—they’re saying, "You’re important to me, and I want to share my world with you."

Ready to Adopt?

black and white maine coon cat rolling around

All these characteristics blend together to create one very unique and special family member.

For those who are ready to adopt a kitten, how would he or she fit in with your family life?

Is this the right choice for you? Their personality makes them very desirable pets.

But before running out to adopt a kitten, it's a good idea to learn about them. This will be a very long relationship. Making the right choice, at the right time, will bring a rewarding addition to your family.

Characteristics and Tall Tales

Would you believe there are actually myths and urban legends about regarding the temperament of these animals?

Here, we set the record straight and reveal just what it's like to have them as pets.

Here is a fun section: Do they like laps - or not? Check out the results of our lap cat survey!

Devoted owners told us all about their affectionate kitties and whether they enjoy laps. It's very interesting!

Maine Coon cat behavior and traits make these wonderful pets great companions and family members.

Once you meet one of these special and unique boys and girls, you've made a friend for life! And, once you are hooked, you'll find there is always room for more!

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About this site: Welcome! Founded in 2010, MCCN has been helping owners and future owners of these gentle giants worldwide for over 14 years. With our regular additions of breed-specific articles, this has become the ultimate online location for breed information!

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