Whats The Difference?
European and American Maine Coons belong to the same breed (Felis catus), but European Maine Coons are selectively bred for a more dramatic, exotic appearance. At Palmetto State Cattery, our European Maine Coons are known for their larger size, pronounced facial structure, strong muzzle, taller ears with lynx tips, and wild, majestic expression—traits that set them apart from the softer, more traditional American Maine Coon look. If you’re searching for premium European Maine Coon kittens with exceptional pedigree, health, and striking features, Palmetto State Cattery specializes in bringing these extraordinary cats to loving homes.
Historical Facts About Maine Coons
1. One of America’s Oldest Natural Cat Breeds
The Maine Coon is considered one of the oldest natural cat breeds in the United States, originating in the state of Maine, where it became the official state cat.
2. Built for Harsh Winters
Their large paws acted like natural snowshoes, and their thick, water-resistant coats helped them survive the brutal New England climate.
3. Famous Ship Cat Theory
One popular historical theory suggests Maine Coons descended from longhaired cats brought to America by sailors, where they bred with local domestic cats.
4. Marie Antoinette Legend
A famous legend claims that Queen Marie Antoinette attempted to escape France and sent six of her prized longhaired cats to America ahead of her. While romantic, this story has never been proven.
5. Early Cat Show Stars
Maine Coons were among the earliest show cats in America. A brown tabby Maine Coon named Cosey won Best Cat at one of America’s first major cat shows in Madison Square Garden in 1895.
6. Temporary Decline in Popularity
When Persian cats became fashionable, Maine Coons lost popularity for a time before dedicated breeders helped restore the breed.
7. CFA Recognition
The Cat Fanciers’ Association officially recognized the Maine Coon breed in 1976.
European Maine Coon Historical Facts
8. Not a Separate Breed
European Maine Coons are still purebred Maine Coons—not a different breed—but represent bloodlines selectively developed in Europe.
9. European Breeding Focus
European breeders intentionally emphasized:
-
Taller ears
-
Lynx tips
-
Bigger square muzzles
-
Heavier bone structure
-
Fuller manes
-
More dramatic “wild” expressions
10. Global Popularity Boom
European bloodlines became highly sought after worldwide because many cat enthusiasts preferred the more exotic, majestic appearance.
11. Russian & Eastern European Influence
Many of today’s highly dramatic European Maine Coons trace back to influential breeding programs in Russia and Eastern Europe, where breeders heavily refined the modern “show look.”
12. Show Standard Influence
European breeding programs helped shape the dramatic look many people now associate with premium Maine Coons in international cat shows.
Cat Fanciers’ Association (official Maine Coon breed history & standard):
Cat Fanciers' Association Maine Coon Breed Profile
CFA article mentioning Cosey winning the 1895 Madison Square Garden cat show:
CFA Maine Coon History Article CFA Foundation historical reference to Cosey’s 1895 collar:
CFA Foundation Historical Archive
Official Maine Coon breed standard (physical traits/history):
CFA Maine Coon Breed Standard PDF
GCCF (UK cat registry) Maine Coon breed information:
GCCF Maine Coon Breed Information