Conference misery::feline_v1

The name of the breeder I went to was a place called
PRETTYPUSS.  It is in whatever town is at the first exit
from rte 495 in NH (I can't remember).  I got to them through
the WANT ADvertisor.  They do list quite a few Maine Coon Cat sellers
now and then.  Also, CATS magazine (if you can find it) lists breeders.
A problem I had with the breeders listed in the magazine were that

(1) either you paid a lot of money ($250+) or you agree to neuter
    the cat (and they drop the price to around $200)

(2) The cat must stay in.

1 was easy.  I intended to do that anyway.  2 was something I would
not agree to.  I live on a 10 1/2 acre estate and I let my other cat
out.  I wanted a Maine Coon Cat I could treat like any other pet.

PRETTYPUSS did not place any restrictions on the cat.  They are not
the cheapest place around, but they are competitive.  They ask $225 for
a purebred Maine Coon Cat.  Einstein was already six months old
so I got him for $175 as he was hard to sell.  He is neutered and sitting
outside as I write this.

I'll see if I can figure out where the place is.

Denise

I am not sure if they changed their name or what, but I think the
number is 603-382-5069.  They don't seem to be listed under the
name PRETTYPUSS.  I hope this helps.

  Another soucre of breeders is Cat Fancy Magazine which is a little easier to 
find than Cats.

tlh

	Yet another source, is to find out when there is a cat show (drool) in 
town. That is a good way to find out who has what for sale.

	/s/	Bob

You can also try various Humane Societies in Maine; that's where my
parents got their Maine Coon ("Star", now gone to cat-heaven).  I'm told
that there are definite seasons for Maine Coons.
				Steve

By the way, that NH town, first exit off 495 must be Seabrook (of Nuke plant
infamy).  Actually, 495 has turned into 95 by that point, but....

One advantage of a Humane Society is that they aren't likely to charge $200!

	Helen

Hi there!  I couldn't resist sending a note when I saw this
conversation about Maine coon cats, I'm getting mine in 
less than 2 weeks (after 10 of waiting.)   I stumbled onto
mine quite accidentally,  I was looking for a kitten, and
Henry Tumblin (KATIE::TUMBLIN) told me his coon cat was
about to have kittens...so for a VERY VERY reasonable price
(first shots, and a cat carrier) I am about to be the
proud owner of either Tiger or Tubba-kitty.   Drop Henry
a line, he is talking about breeding his cat again, if
he can find someone to take the kittens before hand..

				/Robin

Robin,

     You'll love your kitten.  My Maine Coon Cat (like all kittens)
is a bit rambunctious, but somehow lovable through it all.

Denise

I was lucky enough to get a brown tabby Maine Coon Cat as a stray (left behind
by neighbors who moved, taking the male and kittens and leaving the female
to fend for herself in below zero weather in January).  I've noticed that
Maine Coons (particularly the brown tabby pattern) are fairly common among the
mongrel cats in northern New England.

--PSW

My black and white Maine Coon looks just like a mongrel.  
His temperament does not seem mongrel-like.

Hey! its great to see some interest in a breed that I've
been associated with for some time. I have two big boys.
One is a red, about 4 yrs old, and the other (a beautiful
brown mackeral tabby) is still a kitten at 14 mos (Do you 
folks realize that these beasts don't reach full growth
until they are about 3 yrs).
In regard to your question, most of the responses are
geared toward low cost acquisition so I'll offer an alternative.
The best Maine Coon breeders in the world is a place called

TANSTAAFL CATTERY

	Owners:Ralph E. (Mike) and Beth Hicks
		??? Cornelia 
		Memphis, Tn.

I can't find my phone list at the moment, but if directory asst.
doesn't have it and you're interested send mail to me 
@cygnus::scarbrough.

Their prices are steep but I think the cats are well worth it.
I'm not totally up to date and this does not constitute a
commitment by TANSTAAFL, but the last prices I heard were:

Top Quality Show 	$650 and up
Breeders		$400 to $500
Pets			$200 or so.

Now, the down side.
If you want a show cat be prepared to wait about 4 yrs.
Breeders are probably more available and pets are available
as they occur (no waiting list).
They love these cats (and raise them all in the house; no caged
kitties here) and keep track of them. First they will interview
you to see if they want to do business. Then assuming they are
satisfied and agree to sell you a cat it is conditional on a
contract that specifically states they have the right at any
time to inspect the conditions under which the cat is quartered
and if they are dissatisfied to reposses the cat. They have 
done it at least twice that I know of. It is a bit heavy, but
they demand it and can get it and I know first hand that they
have sound judgement and don't go overboard.

If there is interest, I have a vast collection of 
Exploits of the intrepid Maine Coon.

Also, book recommendation: This is the Maine Coon Cat --- Sharon Bass
				T.H.F. Publications 1983

		contains several pictures of TANSTAAFL cats

Later Cat People

HELLO MAINE COON CAT LOVERS! IF YOURE STILL OUT THERE,THAT IS. I JUST 
DISCOVERED THIS FILE ON COONS AND AM SURPRISED NO ONE HAS ENTERED ANY-
THING SINCE SEPT.'84. COONS ARE JUST SO SPECIAL YOU COULD HAVE VOLUMES ON
THEM. I HAVE A BEAUTIFUL BLACK COON,HIS NAME IS RUBY. HE REALLY CAME 
FROM MAINE, MY EX-LAND LADY GAVE HIM TO ME AS SHE HAD MANY SUMMER
HOMES IN MAINE AND ONE DAY SHE FOUND A LITTER OF COONS THAT THE LAST TENANT
HAD LEFT THERE. HE JUST GIVES SO MUCH LOVE AND LOVES TO FOLLOW ME WHEREEVER
I GO. HE HAS A PURR THAT WOULD REGISTER ON THE EARTHQUAKE SCALE IF THERE 
WAS ONE IN MY TOWN. MAINE COONS REALLY ARE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER CATS,
I ALSO HAVE A TABBY AND ITS INTERESTING TO SEE THE DIFFERENCES IN PERSONALITY
THAT THEY SHOW. RUBY IS 14 AND I HOPE HE LIVES A LOT LONGER THAN THAT.
SO LETS HEAR SOME MORE ON COONS!
                                               DENISE

Well I have just gotten a Maine Coon Cat kitten (I think that's right).
His name is Malcolm and he is a tabby. I have decided that a definition of
a cat is a tired kitten. He has more energy than I would have thought possible
in so small an animal. I am thinking of getting another kitten to keep him
company and to save wear and tear on the other cats. Now he likes to sit
on my shoulders occasionally licking my ear. Should he get to be the possible
15-20 lbs. of a full grown male then he will have to give up that endearing
habit. 


							.wIx.

Denise,

     We are still out here.  Like you, I have Einstein, my Maine Coon and
Tigger my mutt (tabby).  They are different but then I think any cat is
different from any other cat.  The Maine Coon seems to be sort of laid back.
He reminds me of Baby Huey, big and harmless.  Both cats have a ton of energy
but seem to exhaust themselves outside (quiet neighborhood).  There is a bar
on the next street.  A lot of the customers arrive by boat, so there is not
much traffic.  The other night I walked down there and Einstein showed up
outside the front door to take me home.  It was really cute.  I assured him
that I enjoyed the company but did not need to be taken home haveing had
only one drink.  In winter, the bar is closed and Einstein will follow me
down to the beach.  He is funny at the edge of the ice/water.

Another Denise

Re .-1

Jack,

     Congrats on the addition of a Maine Coon.  Report back after you
have gotten to know him.

Denise

Malcolm is growing like a rocket. I was out of town for five days and found
a much larger cat when I returned. He is rambunctious and has the other cats
cowed. I am trying to keep his claws clipped to cut down on the other cats
rough and tumble suffering. The one problem I have is that he escapes 
constantly. I am without a place to live at the end of this month and since
an apartment seems inevitable I am trying to keep him inside as much as 
possible. Anyone know a place that rents to catowners? 

Anyway, he has a growing ruff, brown and black mackeral tabby markings, fur
betwixt his toes, and a huge plume tail. His kitten markings of black fur
are almost gone except for a stripe down the lower half of his spine that
extends into his tail. His eyes are golden. All in all he is shaping up
to be a very handsome cat.


							.wIx.

I sure am excited!  I just got a new baby coon kitten. He's going to be
a real beauty. He's a soft gray with white feet, but he's only 5 weeks
old, so it will be a while before I can take him home. I got him at the 
PRETTY PUSS cattery in Plaistow and if there's anyone looking for a new
coon kitten this is the place to go. They have two litters right now that
are available which includes some orange tabbies,black and whites, and 
one cream gray. I hope all you coon lovers are listening. They sure are 
cute kitties! I have directions for anyone who is interested and prices.
I paid $225 for my kitty which includes first shots and all papers.
the first litter will be available in August. There is no contract to 
sign for those of you bothered by contracts and the ancestors of these
litters are from Maine too. 
                                         Denise

great news for coon lovers! a new litter of 7 coons is available from
MI-DAWN in Plaistow(PRETTYPUSS). They are 2 weeks old as of this date,
and come in an assortment of colors. Michele Cox is accepting deposits
on them now. Her number is 603-382-5069. Call her to set up a viewing 
time. These are registered Maine Coons, she provides the first shots.
Price $225, and worth every penny. I just picked up mine this weekend,
and he is just adorable. A little bundle of love and energy. And so easy
going. He was at home in no time.      Happy coon buying!
                             Denise

Our cat encyclopedia says that Maine Coons take 4 years to mature.  Do
they mean behavior-wise or biologically?   We are expecting to neuter
our cat just after he is 8 months old, as you have to wait for the
uro-genital tract to mature.  Is this still true for coons?

Now, if they mean behavior maturity, does this mean we have to put
up with kitten-like adventures for FOUR YEARS???

Ours is not pure-bred.  Mother is a Japanese Bobtail, and we hypothesize
that the father was a coon.  (Don't know who the father was)  The
kitten meets all the descriptions of a Maine Coon except that it has
a bobbed tail.  He even likes to play with water as the book says.

We really lucked out and got the kitten and its mother.  They entertain
each other while we are away, which probably saves a lot of wear and
tear on the house.  Although the mother (aged 3) gets a little tired
of being jumped on all the time, and tries to fend him off.  Basically
two very happy cats.

Isembard (the kitten) could get as big as pure coons, from the looks of
him.  He is 5.5 months old now and weighs about 7 pounds.  Penny (the
mother) only weighs 11 pounds.  When we got Isembard, he was 1.5 WEEKS
old, and weighed 8 ounces, the only surviving kitten from a cesaerean birth.

Zorro, our Maine Coon will be three in March and still acts like he is eight
months old. He still weighs less than nine pounds. You'll get used to it...

	Jon

    I'd like someone to give a description of Maine Coon cat please.
    I have a cat (he's 1 year old now) when a friend of mine saw a picture
    of him she said, "Oh, you have a Maine Coon, you're so lucky". 
    She told me they are known for their wonderful dispositions.  Well
    this one, in my opinion has PERSONALITY PLUS.  Incidentally, I was
    NOT (repeat NOT) a cat lover before I found him.  
    
    Yes, folks I found this one.  I was at a dance last year on 20 April.
    When being walked out to my car we both heard little meow noises
    around my car.  This particular dance hall is located in a very
    heavily wooded area.  Some obviously "DUMPED" him and maybe more
    cats in the woods figuring someone at the dance might feel sorry
    for him/them and bring them home.  Well this little Precious thing
    was under my front tire.  When he saw our feet he came running out
    and it was Love At First Sight.  What a pair of eyes.  Took him
    to the vet the next day and he said he was no more than 2 weeks
    old.  
    
    The rest is history.  My sons and I love him dearly.  He is someting
    (TYPO) something else.  What a personality and incidently, he loves
    water.  One of his favorite tricks after he has eaten is to go upstairs
    and climb in my bathtub and wait for the first LUCKY person to come
    along and turn on the water facet so he can have a drink.  He doesn't
    move completely out of the way when you turn the water on either.
    
    I'll wait for replies now.  Thanks....
    
    Mary
    

    I'd be interested in a definition/description of one as well.  I'm
    the stepmother of a supposed Maine Coon Cat.  My husband claims
    One Eye isn't a Maine Coon as his parentage is a grey-striped, short
    haired tabby and a siamese... but strangers have remarked on One
    Eye's britches, his plume tail, his brown marbled markings, his
    golden eyes and other apparently Coon-ish features.  I'VE always
    remarking on the fact that he follows me around all day like a puppy
    and he vocalizes more than any cat I've ever seen before!  He's
    an enormous cat (as his father was) with gorgeous sable-colored
    paws, tufts of hair between his toes, and a definite preference
    for cuddling!  He likes to bang me in the head at 3AM and any
    lap that's free becomes HIS lap!
    
    Does he sound like a Coon Cat?
    
    karen

    Here's what Cats:Guide to International Pedigree Cats has to say
    about Maine Coons...
    
    Good Points:
    o Hardy and Active
    o Fun-loving
    o Quiet, unique voice
    o Good with children
    o Even Tempered
    o Easy to care for
    o Good Mouser
    
    Take Heed:
    o No drawbacks known
    
    	The Maine Coon is a large cat, very hardy and active, and good
    with children, but shy.  It is good-tmepered, easy to groom and
    to care for.  It loves playing and performing tricks, and has a
    delightful quiet chirping voice; no two Maine coons will sound alike.
    Distinctive in appearance, the cat is almost shorthaired in front
    and longhaired along the back and stomach.  Used to harsh climates
    and to living rough, the Maine Coon is apt to sleep in strange
    positions and in peculiar places.  Although adaptable to indoor
    or outdoor life, this cat would prefer plenty of space to roam.
    	Requiring little grooming, it makes an ideal pet for the person
    who likes the beauty of a longhaired cat, but does not have the
    time to devote to daily grooming.
    
    Show Summary:
    	The Maine Coon is a tough, large and rugged cat, solidly built
    with a smooth shaggy coat.    
    
    Coat:  Heavy and shaggy, yet silky in texture, lustrous and flowing.
     Short on the face and shoulders, but longer on the stmoach and
    hind legs, where it forms long shaggy breeches.
    
    Body:  A long bodied cat with a broad chest and level back, giving
    a rectangular appearance.  Males 10-12lbs; Females smaller 8-10lbs.
     Muscular, with strong legs set wide apart.  Feet large and round.
     Paws well tufted.
    
    Tail:  Blunt ended, but well furnished with long fur, and plumelike.
    Wider at the base.  No kinks allowed.
    
    Head:  Small in proportion to the body, set on a medium length powerful
    neck.  Square muzzle.  Firm chin, not undershot.  High cheekbones.
    Nose is medium length and might have slight nose break.  Ears large
    and well tufted, wide at the base and tapering to a point; set high
    on head.
    
    Eyes:  Slightly slanting, large and set wide apart.
             
    tlh
    

    I am really surprized to read that people are paying big dollars
    for Maine Coon Cats.  We moved to Brunswick, Maine, last year and
    that was the first time we ever heard of the beloved coons.  How
    we heard of them was the constant occurance of classified ads in
    The Brunswick Times-Record, only they were giving the cats away,
    if I remember correctly -?
    
    While on the subject, I must say Brunswick is the most catty town
    I've ever seen.  I would swear that every other home has a cat.
    And businesses let the resident layabout have full run.  I saw cats
    in the local grocery, the bookstore, the computer store, the camera
    store, the news stand, the other bookstore, the hardware store,
    and I'm probably leaving out some others.  
    
    Fittingly, when we moved away, we moved with a new cat.  After being
    allergic to cats all of her life, my wife pampered a stray who ('twas
    a miracle!) didn't bother her.

    I, Too was surprised to read how much everyone's paying for
    their coons.  SamII, Tigar, Boots, and Flower were all FREE,
    geniune Maine Coons.  
    I'd recommend a trip to any humane society in Maine before
    dishing out big bucks for these furry little loveballs.
    Are you coon lovers still out there ??
    

    
    
    Flame on...
    
    Genuine Maine coons are Cats with traceable pedigrees which contain
    only maine coon parentage.  Your dear darling lookalike, while no
    doubt lovable and possessing many maine coon traits, is still not
    a genuine maine coon.  Similarily, a cat that "looks" like a siamese
    is not a genuine siamese.
    
    Flame off
    
    Genetically, and SOTF, many cats look like maine coons.  Those are
    the traits that survive well in most rough environments. A well
    known cat genetist once said, that if you took every cat at the
    average cat show, let them loose in the woods, and came back 20
    years later, the cats that are still there would look a whole lot
    like maine coons.
    
    The average cat show exhibitor gets real tired of hearing "we have
    one at home that looks just like that".  We spend time, money and
    a great deal of energy (ask anyone who has helped birth kittens)
    on preserving the genetics and the bloodlines of our breeds (which
    may not be the best thing in the world for the cats).
    
    If it pleases you to call your large furry cat a maine coon, so
    be it.  I would refrain from trying to register the cat as such,
    or entering the cat into a show as such.
    
    Dave

    

    RE: .26
    
    Well said, Dave.  It was once said that anybody that owns a boat
    can call him/herself "captain", but the real test is if _other_ Captains
    call him/her "Captain".  So I guess that anyone can call their cat
    a Maine Coon, but in order to *REALLY BE* a Maine Coon, _other_ Maine
    Coons must call the cat a Maine Coon!(?)
      
    Marion (;-D)

    There's an old story about a man from Maine who thought of himself
    as a Yankee.  A "real" Yankee questioned him about it, to which
    the man explained that although his parents weren't born in Maine,
    he was and that made him an Yankee.  "Think what you will," said
    the old Yankee, "but if my cat had kittens in the oven, I wouldn't
    call them biscuits."
    
    Mary

    There are those who HAVE Coons, and those who think they
    have COONS,
    and those of us who KNOW we have Coons
    and those of you who think you know what the rest of us have!

RE: .26 [one good flame deserves another...]

You can keep your purebreds Coons and all of their genetic defects (detailed
in a previous note).

The first Maine Coon cats came from wild stock.  The best still do.

--PSW

    The Maine Coon is now infiltrating into Britain and there are about
    250 of them here now.  Because they are so rare and there aren't
    many breeders they cost 500 pounds each!  Pretty expensive I'd say.

    I'm on your side, .30, I had a Maine Coon descendant (a half-breed)
    for about 8 years, and in my opinion, he was as much Maine Coon
    in characteristics as any "Purebred".  Skeezicks was the most
    charismatic cat I've ever met!  He had a soft spot for my dad, and
    I would have sworn they could communicate.  He was grandson to our
    first M.C. so I know at least his maternal history.  He had double
    paws, a gorgeous huge tail, tabby markings with a fluffy white
    underside, and he was HUGE!  I have allergies/asthma, and I'm probably
    the most allergic to cats out of anything, but I guess I became
    immune to him, because we co-existed beautifully.  Unfortunately,
    he was the second cat we'd had that died of Feline Urinary something
    or the other, and he had to be put to sleep, and I've never had
    a cat since, because no other cat could compare!!  How's that for
    a soapy story?  (Is it obvious that I worshipped this cat?)
    
    WJK
    

    If anyone knows if PRETTY PUSS in Plaistow NH is still in business
    selling Maine Coon Cats would you please send me a note on
    ISLNDS::PORADA?I can't find them in any way. Tried the previous
    number lister, the town clerk, the dog officer and no luck. Looking
    for a coon kitten NOW...

    You might want to try Marilyn Gourinsky, 46 Rush St, Springfield
    MA  01109.  She was showing Maine Coons at the last several shows.
    
    Or Carol Pedley, RR1 Box 453, Gorham ME  04038
    
    Both of these people have really beautiful Maine Coons.
    
    Purrs
    cin
    

    There are two Humane Societies in Maine where we got 5 of our
    7 coons (the other two were born at home!)
    
    They are, the Lincoln County Humane Society, in New Castle, ME
    and the Brunswick Humane Society.
    
    Both are located off Rt. 1, and have Coon kittens/cats quite
    often.
    
    Cheri
    

    I have what I believe is a Maine Coon cat. I got him at a pet store
    8 years ago, and he has been the best cat I've ever had!! Can anyone
    help me to determine if he is in fact a Coon cat?
    
    He is two-tone, Orange top, White underside. 15 lbs. Tufts of fur
    between his toes. A large fluffy main (chest). Long fur with an
    immense bushy tail. Finally, he does not have that "smashed Face
    look" of the typical Persian.
    
    Does this sound like a Maine Coon? 
    
    

    
    
        Sounds very much like a Maine Coon!  However I'm not an expert
    just know the basic looks.  Is this a little light on the weight
    for the cat?  I was under the impression that they were known to
    be very large and heavy.  
    
                                                        Kim

Re. 36
    
    Maine Coon cats typically run about 20 lbs when full grown.  They
    do have tufts of fur between their toes, and the males have a full
    main.  The only thing is Maine Coon's do not have a "smashed Face
    look" they have a full face.  It sounds like you cat could be a
    mix between a Persian and a Maine Coon.

    
    
    	I have a cat that is predominantly Maine Coon.  He is not
    	quite a year old and weighs almost 12 pounds already!!!
    	He has those cute tufts of fur between his toes, a normal
    	cat face (not smashed), and a ruff around his neck.  VERY
    	PRETTY.  He has a skunk like tail (its huge!).  Bandits
    	markings are also typical Maine Coon.  My parents
    	also have a Maine Coon cat but it is orange and white markings.
    	Body wise, it is Maine Coon.
    
    	They both have one other characteristic that I am not sure is
    	Maine Coon.  They each have a huge pouch hanging beneath
    	their stomachs.  I really don't think they are fat though.
    	Do any breeders know if this is typical of Maine Coons???
    
    	Karen

My totally black cat, Sam, has tufts between the toes, a big bushy tail, and
is the larger of my cats...he also has a definite mane of hair and a normal
cat face...however, I seriously doubt he has any Maine Coon in him, I think
he is just a long-haired black cat.  I think you can have a difficult time
identifying a Maine Coon-cross unless you KNOW a Maine Coon was involved!
Most of the characteristics described are common for cats with lots of hair.

    Actually, this cat has a normal cat face rather than the "smashed
    face".
    
    Cricket is a neutered male. It sounds as though he might be a small
    Coon.
    
    Are there any behavioral "norms" for Maine Coons?
    
    Thanks for the response!
    
    TW
    

    	I have a sort-of-coon cat.  He lived in a barn in Manchester
    for the first 6 months of his life, but when winter came the owner
    of the barn was looking for a home.  Prior to meeting this little
    "Gremlin", I had no particular liking for cats of any sort, but
    this one changed my attitude.  So, I've had him for about two years
    now.  I'm going to call around for another one now.  He's the closest
    thing to a bobcat I'd care to have around.  His hunting abilities
    would only be surpassed by a wild cat!
    
    	Watch out Maine Humane, here I come !
    
    bob

    Something went haywire as I attempted to get into this file. I'll
    try it again. Our Maine Coon was given to us as a Kitty 9 years
    ago. Tiger weighs in at 22 lbs. now. I wouldn't call him fat he's
    just big. He looks just like the picture on the cat postage stamps
    that came out this summer. He owns the house so were just his "person"
    and his source of food and pleasure. Most of his time is spent doing
    what you and I would love to do like lie around in the sun, eat
    and drink a little and scare the living daylights out of any stray
    animals that wander into his territory. As an altered male he'll
    never know the delights of a lady cat, but it doesn't seen to affect
    him any. I have seen him leap almost 3' in the air and bat an offensive
    Nuthatch out of the air. My front lawn is devoid of moles now,for
    some strange reason, he hates and despatches. But, chipmonks he
    catches, bats them around, holds them long enough for me to see
    then lets them get away. When he is sitting on the front steps people
    who do not know him call to my wife as they are reluctant to pass by
    or over him. As Coon cats go, he is as gentle as a lamb. The only
    person he loves to attack is my wife. He just loves to give her
    a belt on the leg with  a paw or if that doesn't get a response
    it's 22lbs. of fur hanging from her leg. His favorite food is 9
    lives canned and dry. Also he can smell a can of tuna being opened
    from outside. A sardine is a Thanksgiving feast for him. He has
    given us much pleasure and hopefully he'll be with us another 9
    years.  
     

    I need an update on where to get one (or two) in NE.  I would prefer
    a female, with pedigree.  
    
    We had a coon when I was a boy, Squeaker used to curl around my
    head on the pillow at night, in the morning I would wake up with
    my head on the mattress and this darn 25lb monster flopped out on
    her back, spread all over the pillow.  She used to push me out of
    the way when I fell asleep.
    
    We loved that beast.   She lived to be almost 20 years old.  When she
    ran off to die, my dad took three days off from work to search for
    her.  I don't think he ever really got over it.
    
    Well, I'm a dad now, and I want a Maine Coon Guard Cat to protect
    my family and wrestle with my son.
    
    Any leads would be greatly apprec...
    
    Kirby Wadsworth
    
    dtn 296-4113  

    re: .46
    
      What a wonderful story!  
    
    Now, it just so happens that I picked up THREE business cards for
    Maine coon breeders at the last cat show I attended!
    
    SNICKETS CATTERY  Heiei M. Oliveri  Chelsea, Ma  02150 617 884-5162
    
    CODCOON CATTERY Jane K. Gilley 70 W Pond Rd, Chatham, Ma 02633
                    (508) 945-1776
    
    CAPE COON MAINE COON CATS  Cheryl & Bob Kearns  171 Weir Rd, Yarmouth
                     Ma  02675  508-362-8826  (the card said area code
                     617, but I'm fairly sure that Yarmouth must be
                     a 508 now.)
    
    Good luck!

    If you are up around the Rt.125 area in Brentwood N.H. there is
    a kennel on Rt.125 (left side) headed towards Epping (not sure of
    kennel name even though I go by there twice a day) that has a large
    sign out for Maine Coon Cats. The price is rather steep, like $350.
    At one time this kennel had signs for Coon Cats that were $750.
    I have often thought about stopping in but as yet,havn't. I always
    wanted to see a $750 cat. My Coon is priceless and came as a gift
    from the grandchildren. In case you are intrested I can supply better
    directions.        
                 Arthur Parks 

    Cheryl & Bob Kerns have wonderful cats!  Healthy & sweet!
    
    E.T.

    I just received a Coon cat as a Christmas present.  He was purchased
    from Carol Pedley in Portland Maine.  He is a real sweetie.  Carol
    had 4 litters of kittens available.  They ranged in price from $350
    (pet quality) to $800 (show quality).  It's really hard for the
    common person to tell the difference.  Carol's number is 
    (207) 797-6579.  
    
    Carole

    A few more Maine Coon catteries are:
    
    Ailurophile Cattery - The Gervers   - Malden, Ma      (617)397-8882
    Prattkat Cattery    - Jean C. Pratt - Forestville, Ct (203)747-9992 
    Kris-Ki Cattery     - Marty Foss    - Gardiner, Me    (207)582-8454
    Whales Back Cattery - Joaquin Fortin- Brunswick, Me   (207)729-8649
    Dirigo Cats of Maine- Beth Kus      - Tolland, Ct     (203)872-6937
    
    And for those interested, there is another beautiful breed of cats
    similar to Maine Coons called Norwegian Forest Cats.  For more 
    information on this breed of cats you can call
    
    Pawtuckaway Cattery - Mark & Debbie Hochman - Francestown, NH (603)547-6475
    

    If you are interested in Norwegian Forest Cats you can also call
    Mary Mulrennan in Candia, NH - i603-483-2215.
    
    E.T.

    Thanks to you all for the update on breeders.
    
    I have recently learned that my mother-in-law is deathly allergic
    to cats.  It seems that she would take it as a personal affront
    if I was to get a cat for the family.  This is a little upsetting.
    Other than this problem I basically love my mother-in-law and don't
    want to hurt her feelings, but I do want a cat.  I realize that
    I could block off part of the house so she would be less affected
    when she comes over, and we only live down the street, so she would
    never stay overnight or for extended periods.  
    
    The problem seems to be more political than medical if you get my
    drift...

    Or you could go to *her* house when you want to visit with her.
    Does seem odd, since you don't live with her.
    
    Jo

    Tough Call.  I remember that my mother felt that are rule
    about no smoking in the apartment was an insult to visitors.
    Where she came from you didn't do that to a guest.  It might
    help to talk to her a little and try to find out what underlies
    the view that its a personal affront to her.  Maybe there's 
    something else you could do about it.
      (By the way, my husband has asthma so we had a good reason
    not to allow smoking in the house - perhaps comparable to your
    mom-in-laws allergies.)
    
      You might also find out a little more as to just how allergic
    she is.  You say "deathly allergic" so I assume its pretty severe,
    but I know that cat allergies range from what I have - a slight
    sensitivity that I"ve probably reduced just by exposure to our
    cats - up to a total inability to breathe if the person just
    stands in the same room with a cat.  
      Good luck.  This really is a toughy.
       Nancy DC
    

    
    I know someone who is looking for a Maine Coon and asked me what it 
    would cost for one. He did not mention if he wanted pet or show
    quality. Could someone please let me know what the price range for this
    type of cat would be. I have no idea what one would cost, because I
    prefer Birmans and Siamese.
    
        My EMAIL is Dneast::Estes_Crys or just reply here.
    
                                  Thanks
                                   Crys
    

    Crys, do you own a Birman?
    
    I believe pet quality Maine Coons in the northeast run about $350;
    show cats are more expensive obviously.  In some cases, it depends
    on the breeder.  Sometimes older kittens are less expensive, sometimes
    not.
    
    --Roberta (another Birman fan!)
    

    Hi Roberta,
    
         No I do not own a Birman, but I would like too!!!!! I should say I am
    not owned by a Birman, but would like too. I am owned by only one cat, a
    seal point Siamese. I have never formally introduced myself, been too shy.
        
                         Thanks for the info
                                 Crys
    
    P.S. I think this is GREAT notes file. 
        

    Okay Crys, it is time to go and properly introduce yourself to the
    rest of us.  With another Birman lover amongst us, this file is
    becoming more and more Birman oriented!  And to think, most folks
    consider them a minority breed!
    
    Jo (a breeder of Birmans)
    

    re: .59   Now Jo, you wait until little Bonnie B starts making
    kittens for me and the Scottish folds of the world will start
    getting their share of attention too!!   ;-)
      Nancy DC

    Crys, you have got to own a Birman someday.  Their dispositions
    are superb.  There are lots of pretty cats out there but out of
    my 5, Murdock definitely has them all beat in temperament.  My husband
    would like me to breed them someday but that's a long time in the
    future.  For now, I rely on Jo, Linda Sobek, and Nancy Jenkins (all
    Feline participants and breeders) to help answer questions about
    Birmans and breeding in general.
    
    I also have 2 Ragdolls.  They are "my" cats, though, and don't really
    go to my husband or take well to strangers.  Murdock is a people
    cat; he is not afraid of anything, and likes everyone.  Ask Barbara
    Ives; he stole her heart!
    
    Welcome to Feline, and don't be shy about writing in!  We love to
    hear from newcomers.
    
    
    --Roberta
    

    	Well, it looks like my contract will be renewed, so I can spend
    some $$ now.  High on the list is a companion for Vanessa, another
    Copy cat. I do want a purebred Maine Coon (as was Copy) with the same
    markings, black or smoke with white nose, bib and vest, and boots.
    Of course, he will be neutered when ready. I live in woods off a dead
    end road and let my cats outdoors.
    	I picked up cards from the Maine Coon breeders at the Boxborough
    show and have added addresses from this note. I'll be sending a letter
    asking about kittens to each breeder.
    		*	*	*
    	Does anyone know a good Maine Coon breeder whose name is not in
    this note or was not at Boxborough and is in New England? Could you
    post it?  If anyone wishes, I'll post my compilation list. - Chris

    The breeder I know is Bob Stamatis in Woburn Mass - I think I
    posted his number - 617.932.9757.
    
    E.T.

    Bob is also a CFF judge and, I might add, has always liked Dundee!!
      Nancy DC

    Hi,
    What are the special features and markings of a Maine Coon Cat?
    I think I may have but am not sure.
    
                                              Rick

        I have a Maine Coon mutt cat.  He has markings very similar
	to the purebred cats that I saw at a cat show.  Basically,
	they tend to have longer hair, a normal cat face (as compared
	to smushed in or pointy ;-)), a ruff of furr (like a mane but
	not really), and the cats are husky and larger than your
	average cat.  From what I have seen, the markings can vary.
	Usually, they are lightly striped and colors vary from light
	brown to shades of grey.

	Karen

    yup,
    I've got one .Probably a mutt as well though.
    
                         Thanx,
                         Rick

    Maine Coons are recognized in every color and pattern with the
    exception of pointed (siamese pattern).  I think that is the only
    exception.
    
    There are no markings that are unique to the Main Coon, you need
    to look at his body type to be able to tell if he resembles one.
    
    Jo

and, as my Samson will demonstrate, a long-haired mutt cat often looks
exactly as described for a Maine Coon.....although he's never been out
of California....8^}

				D

    Since Maine Coons are so common in the North eastern US it is very
    possible that your mutt has some Maine Coon in him/her if you live
    in New England.
      N

    This may have already been answered in this note somewhere, but....
    
    Is it normal for a Maine Coon cat to weigh 30 lbs.?  I will be
    adopting a 7 year old male and have been told that he weighs right
    around 30 lbs.  That is a BIG cat and I'm wondering if he's going to
    eat me out of house and home!  Any info would be GREATLY appreciated.
    
    -- Kristy

    Hi Kristy!!  You'll really have to wait until you see the cat.  if he's
    all muscles, then he's just a BIG cat.  Main Coon type can get to be
    rather large, but I've never heard of one QUITE that big.  You may have
    to put him on a diet.  Best thing to do is to buy him the light food
    right away.  That'd probably be best even if he IS solid muscle.  30
    lbs is not healthy for a cat.
    
    Holly
    

    We have a Maine Coon out here, GRC Chaudvent's Leroy Brown of Napa
    Valley, that is 25 pounds.  Or at least he was last November when
    a researcher doing an article on cat weights came to a show and
    weighed all our cats.  Saw it with my own eyes, so I know that it
    is true. :^)  Leroy isn't fat, just darn big.  That is the largest
    that I have ever seen one get.
    
    Jo

    
    The last time I brought my cat to the vet for her yearly checkup
    she weighed 30 lbs. She is an indoor cat and sorta looks like a
    long hair black bear. She's not afraid of dogs or Cars so that's
    why she stays indoors. I raised her from a kitten when her mother
    got killed. She is really friendly with everyone. 
    
    Matt

    I used to have a stray who had all the characteristics of a Maine
    Coon: tufted feet and ears, short hair in the front and long in
    the back, golden eyes, very affectionate and talkative, etc.  He
    weighed 17 lbs when I had to give him away (and he barely even 3
    years old!); I still miss him even 2 years later.  Some
    observations:   Maine coons are very sensitive
    and get stressed by any change (even too many people visiting);
    they need lots of space (Blaise practically destroyed my furniture
    before I moved to a bigger place and let him go outside!); they
    have a tendency to Feline Urinary Disease (aggravated by stress).
    Blaise had FUD, but it was easily manageable by regulating his diet;
    He needed to eat only dry food low in ash (if I remember correctly).
    So I was surprised to read that .30 (or .32?) had to have a furface
    put down because of FUD.
    
    Anyway, I miss my baby and look forward to getting another; although,
    I probably won't get a purebred as I'm more interested in rescuing
    some poor furface from the Humane Society.
    
    --Michelle

    Two of the three ferals I trapped in Maine also seem to have major
    Maine Coon characteristics ... the male, in particular.  At 5.5 months
    old, he's weighing in at 8.5 pounds.  He has a beautiful buff-colored
    coat with classic tabby markings; coat is short in front, long in back,
    he's developed breeches on his hind legs, sports a ruff, has golden
    eyes, tufted ears and feet.
    
    He's the most constantly affectionate of the three, has a nice quiet
    voice, can often be found walking around muttering to himself (chirp,
    chirp, chirp).  When a stranger comes to the house he ... "oh my
    goodness!  I forgot!  I have an appointment under the bed!  Gotta go.
    Gotta go.  See ya.  Ooh no I'm gonna be late for my appointment!
    ... sort of disappears.
    
    Last weekend I renamed him ... he's no longer called Duffy ... he's now
    called Jabba-the-Duff because when he sits, all his
    loose-skinned-potential adult size slips to the floor around his butt
    and he looks like a small version of Jabba the Hut (or, an upside down
    lightbulb).
    
    Jo-Ann

    Jo-Ann...after seeing pictures of your three new babies...I can
    see how you became a "cat person".  Glad you joined the crowd...
    and I knew you would!!!
    
    Sandy