Maine Coon 1
There is a different Maine Coon breed standard for the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA). The CFA like ’em polished and pretty and TICA likes ’em natural and feral . I describe the important parts of breed standard (but not all of it) over the next 4 pages with Helmi’s photographs “to hand” to allow an understanding of the standard. I have found it a little hard to get a clear picture of how the standard translates into a Maine Coon cat without a picture of the cat to look at the same time. Note: I do not quote the standard verbatim as Google may think I am copying and penalize me. The breed standard is in my words with my comments, but is in front of me at all times.
The CFA start the breed standard by saying that this breed was originally a working cat (a mouser) and is solid and able to endure a harsh climate. That sets the scene. The CFA also give the most points to the coat (20 points). I like that start as both aspects are highly relevant. TICA start by saying that the cat should have a balanced appearance and the various elements of the cat should be in proportion. >>>>>>to next page>>>>>)
