Perhaps you’re thinking of adopting or purchasing a new feline companion and have it narrowed down to British Shorthair and Main Coon Cat Breed.
If you are interested in learning more about these two, I hope it guides you in choosing the best fit for your family and or yourself.
Characteristics
Maine Coon
Maine coons undeniably have thick, shaggy fur with a mane around their neck resembling that of a lion.
They have large, muscular frames with large ears and paws, both of which are characterized by tufts of hair pointing outwards. Some would say the ears On a Maine Coon resemble that of a lynx.
There are over seventy-four colors ranging from black to orange in which to choose from.
The Maine Coon cat is the official state cat of Maine in the United States. It is considered one of the largest breeds of domesticated cats in the world. This breed’s origin is a mystery.
However, there is a common theory that this large breed results from the crossbreeding of domestic cats with the wild bobcat, which may explain the resemblance of their ears.
In which, the most probable one is that this breed is related to the Siberian and the Norwegian Forest Cat.
The Maine Coon cat was very popular in cat shows during the 19th century but was soon threatened by the existence of long-haired cats in the 20th century.
These cats made a huge comeback soon after and were recognized by the CFA as an official breed in 1973, and are one of the United States most popular breeds to date.
History Of The British Shorthair
Looking at these cats, you will notice their medium build characterized by round features, consisting of rounded paws, a rounded tipped tail, round eyes, and a round head.
Their coats are dense and plush and come in many colors, with greyish-blue being the most popular.
The origins of the British Shorthair date back to the first century. Romans imported these cats from Egypt to keep their camps clean from mice and other rodents.
These cats cross-bred with Europe’s feral cats, and developed into a larger breed with a thicker fur to better withstand the elements of their new home. This breed is among one of the most popular in the United Kingdom.
Personality
Maine Coon
Maine Coon cats have a high energy level, love to play, and need lots of space in which to do so. They get bored easily, and therefore need lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep them from getting into trouble.
These cats are very social animals and dislike being alone for extended periods. They would do well with a companion to keep them happy and play with.
They are known as a gentle breed with a high level of intelligence, making them excellent problem solvers and easy to train.
They are vocal cats and will let you know when they want something by meowing, chirping, and even howling. Many of these cats enjoy being around water and would benefit from a water fountain.
British Shorthair
Unlike the Maine Coon, the British Shorthair has a low energy level. They are easygoing and are content basking in the sun rather than chasing everything that moves.
Boredom does not seem to affect this breed. They do well by themselves and will often wait close to the door for their owners’ arrival.
British Shorthair cats are mellow and tend to be very loyal to their owners. They get along well with children and other animals.
These cats are not as active as other breeds and would prefer to sit by their owner’s feet rather than on their lap.
They don’t mind spending time on their own for extended periods and are very welcoming to their owners when they arrive home.
Weight and Size
Maine Coon
A male Maine Coon can weigh between thirteen to eighteen pounds, while a female usually weighs anywhere between eight and twelve pounds.
There is a similarity in the weight of the Maine Coon and the British Shorthair, but the Maine Coon can reach a height of over sixteen inches, whereas the British Shorthair will usually reach fourteen inches.
The length of a Maine Coons body can range from nineteen to thirty-two inches.
Maine Coon Cat Dimensions & Drawings | Dimensions.com
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair will reach a weight of nine to seventeen pounds for the males, with the females averaging between seven and twelve pounds.
The body length of a British Shorthair can range from twenty-two to twenty-five inches.
British Shorthair Cat Dimensions & Drawings | Dimensions.com
Health Conditions
British Shorthair
This breed has a life expectancy of fourteen years but can live for as long as twenty depending on its health. Like other breeds, they are prone to a couple of health conditions.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Responsible for the decrease in the heart’s efficiency due to the walls of the heart thickening.
Cats may have this condition without displaying symptoms initially, while others may show signs such as open-mouthed breathing and lethargy as the disease progresses.
There is no known cure for this condition, which is why genetic testing is so important. Treatment to prolong the quality of life is usually done with medication.
Polycystic kidney disease
Another genetic disease, characterized by many fluid-filled cysts present in the kidneys, eventually leading to their failure to function.
Symptoms can include a large abdomen, bloody urine, and lethargy. There is no cure for this disease and is treated with the use of medications.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is known as a healthy breed with a lifespan of nine to fifteen years. This depends on diet and health conditions they may acquire.
Just like the British Shorthair, they may be genetically predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease.
Although these conditions are rare, they are not without possibility. Spinal muscular atrophy is also another possible genetically inherited disease among Maine Coons.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Characterized by the loss of motor neurons within the brain, leading to atrophy of muscles in the back legs.
Symptoms can include an unsteady gait, restlessness, and dragging the hind legs as the disease progresses. There is no treatment or cure for this condition which is why genetic testing is so important.
How to take care of Maine Coon and British Shorthair?
Grooming
The Maine Coon has ample, shaggy-looking fur with three layers if you include the thick undercoat and guard hairs. These cats shed often and need to be brushed at least once or twice a week. Maine Coons can be any color.
Meanwhile, the coat on the British Shorthair has a thick, rich appearance. There is no undercoat, giving it a soft texture, with a ripple-like appearance. They are available in many colors and patterns, with the most common being solid grey, otherwise referred to as British Blue.
Final Thought
Either of these breeds would make an outstanding companion to your family. The British Shorthair would make a wonderful pet for those who are always on the go and are away from home, as they do not mind being left alone for short periods.
The Maine Coon would benefit to a family or individual who can devote more time at home. Even though this breed is independent, they appreciate being around people and other animals.
Really though, it’s a preference and I’m sure whichever you decide will be best for you and your family.