10 Pairs of Amazing Maine Coon Eyes

by Carrie Profenno: Author, Coonie Mama & lifelong Mainer

Maine Coon eyes really are unique! We all know how stunning this breed is. Their natural beauty is without compare!

The different Maine Coon features come in various colors and shapes, adding to their distinct appearance.

Breed Standard:

Eye Shape:

First, let's look at the shape of Maine Coon eyes. They are large and slightly oval, set wide apart and at a slight angle toward the base of the ears.

This shape gives them an alert and intelligent expression, which matches their playful and curious nature.

Eye Colors:

Standard colors include shades of green, gold, green-gold, and copper.

These colors can vary in intensity, adding to the individual charm of each cat. The interesting part is that the eye color does not always match the coat color - which results in a wide variety of combinations!

For example, you might see a black Coonie with striking green eyes or a silver tabby with piercing gold eyes.

Blue eyes in Coonies are quite rare and usually found in white cats or those "with white."

This means a Coonie can have blue eyes if they have a lot of white fur, either as a solid white cat or part of a bicolor or particolor pattern.

In these cases, you might find a Coonie with one or both eyes blue, which adds a unique look to their appearance.

For white Coonies or those with white markings, there is a possibility of having blue or even odd eyes—where one eye is blue and the other is green, gold, or copper.

This interesting feature comes from the same genetic factors that give them their white fur, making these cats particularly unique.

It's always a treat to see a white Coonie with bright blue eyes or the fascinating contrast of odd eyes!

Different-Colored Eyes: Heterochromia

Heterochromia, or having two different-colored eyes, is one of the coolest traits you’ll find in a Maine Coon!

While rare, this beautiful phenomenon does happen in some cats, creating an unforgettable, striking look.

Heterochromia occurs when the distribution of melanin, the pigment responsible for eye color, varies between the eyes. In these cases, one eye may be a vibrant blue, while the other can be green, amber, or even gold.

While heterochromia doesn’t affect vision or health, it does make for a truly unique appearance.

It is typically seen in all-white or mostly white cats, due to the genetics of pigmentation. In these cats, a gene called the white spotting or white masking gene can interfere with melanin distribution, especially in the eyes.

When this gene is active, it can prevent pigment from developing fully in one eye, resulting in a blue eye alongside a more typically colored one, like green or amber.

The blue eye is actually lacking in melanin, while the other eye has a normal amount, creating that striking difference!

Heterochromia is less common in darker-colored Coons, but that just makes the phenomenon even more special when it appears.

This trait adds a sense of mystery to their expressions, making it hard to look away from those entrancing, mismatched eyes.

Some Coonies with heterochromia even have different flecks of color within each eye, adding a layer of depth and complexity to their gaze that’s unlike anything else. It’s as if each eye tells its own story, capturing light in different ways.

So, if you ever come across a Maine Coon with heterochromatic eyes, consider yourself lucky - it’s a rare and beautiful reminder of the uniqueness each cat can bring into the world!

With their trademark charm and these stunning, mismatched eyes, heterochromic Maine Coons remind us just how extraordinary the feline world can be!

Eye Health and Appearance:

In addition to their color, the overall appearance and health of a Coonie's eyes are important parts of the breed standard.

Their eyes should be clear, bright, and free from any discharge or cloudiness, which reflects their good health.

Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups help keep their eyes healthy, ensuring that these gentle giants always look their best.

These pretty peepers are more than just a physical trait - they reflect their vibrant personalities and rich heritage.

Whether you are looking into a pair of golden orbs, admiring deep greens, or noticing mystical blue, the eyes are a key part of what makes this breed so special.

Your Cat's Hidden Third Eyelid:

Ever noticed your cat’s eyes looking a little different when they’re sleepy or feeling under the weather?

That’s their third eyelid, also known as the nictitating membrane, at work!

This fascinating little feature is located in the inner corner of their eye, and it plays a vital role in protecting their delicate eyes.

The term "third eyelid" can be a bit confusing because it suggests there are three eyelids, but in reality, animals (like felines) have two primary eyelids (upper and lower) and then the nictitating membrane, which is the "third eyelid."

The nictitating membrane helps keep moisture on the surface of the eye, preventing dryness, and it also acts as a shield against dust, dirt, or other irritants.

If you’ve ever seen it partially close, it’s usually a sign that your kitty is either tired or perhaps a little stressed.

When a cat is asleep, it often becomes more noticeable. This happens because the eyelid moves slightly across the eye, usually in response to relaxation or sleep.

While cats are known for their ability to keep their eyes wide open while in a light doze, during deep sleep, the third eyelid can cover a part of the eye.

This behavior is entirely natural and serves as a protective function. The membrane helps maintain moisture on the surface of the eye, keeping it hydrated while the cat rests.

It's also a safeguard against any potential irritation or debris that could harm the eyes during sleep.

If you spot the nictitating membrane when your cat is resting, it’s usually just a sign they’re in a calm, relaxed state.

However, if the membrane stays visible when your cat is awake or seems to be overly protruding, it might signal an underlying health issue, so keeping a watchful eye can be helpful.

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These ten gorgeous guys and gals kick it up a notch with drop-dead gorgeous eyes. Enjoy!

PG

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Luke

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Bella

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April

Willy

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Raeiya

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Kitty

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Venice Cat

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Lady Gala

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Surfer Dude

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Maine Coon Cats are described as having wide set, large, expressive eyes with an oval shape, and an intelligent expression. As you can see, those words hardly do them justice!

These ten beauties really show what variety exists both in color contrast, shape, and also expression. One of my favorite Maine Coon traits is the fact that no two are exactly alike!

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