Domestic Longhair vs. Maine Coon, which cat is best suited to your home? As a cat parent, you’ll likely face a conundrum when deciding between cat breeds. Which longhair cat fits your lifestyle and living space?
Domestic longhairs are cats with long hair that do not belong to a specific breed. They can be any cat with a long coat, and their appearance can vary widely. Maine Coons are a specific breed of cat with a distinct appearance and set of characteristics. They have large bodies, long hair, and rugged appearance.
A domestic longhair and a long hair Maine Coon differ in various ways, from their origin to breed characteristics. Here’s a complete comparison of the two cats.
Domestic Longhair vs. Maine Coon: A Detailed Comparison
Origins
Below are the histories of the Maine Coon and DHL.
Origin of Long hair Maine Coon Cats
The origin of the Maine Coon is somewhat mysterious, and there are several theories about where the breed came from. One view is that the Maine Coon results from natural breeding between domestic cats and wild bobcats. Another theory is that the breed was developed by early settlers in New England who imported longhaired cats from Europe and crossed them with local domestic cats.
The first ever mention of the Maine Coon was in 1861 when a black and white Maine Coon named Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines was exhibited at a cat show in Boston. The breed quickly gained popularity and became known for its intelligence, hunting abilities, and friendly disposition.
In the late 1800s, the Maine Coon was one of the most popular breeds in the United States, and it was recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1976. Today, the Maine Coon is still a popular breed known for its unique appearance and friendly personality.
Origin of the Domestic Longhair Cat
Domestic longhair cats have a long and complex history that can be traced back to the domestication of cats in ancient Egypt. Cats were initially kept as pets by the ancient Egyptians, who valued them for their ability to keep homes free of pests such as mice and rats.
Over time, cats spread to other parts of the world through trade and colonization, and they eventually made their way to Europe and North America.
In the 17th century, European colonists brought domestic cats to North America, where they controlled rodent populations on farms and in homes. These cats were likely a mix of European domestic cat breeds, including the British Shorthair, the Scottish Fold, and the Manx.
As these cats adapted to the new environment, they began to develop longer coats to protect themselves from the colder climate. They were also interbred with other domestic cats, leading to the development of the domestic longhair cat as we know it today.
Domestic longhairs are now found worldwide and are famous pets due to their friendly and affectionate personalities. They come in various colors and patterns and are often used as show cats in cat fancy competitions.
Size
Domestic longhair cats are much smaller than Maine Coon Cats. Let’s look at their size differences in detail.
Maine Coon Size
Maine Coon cats are known for being one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Adult males typically weigh between 13 and 18 pounds, while females usually weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. However, some individuals can be larger or smaller than these average weights.
These cats can be pretty tall, with adult males typically reaching heights of up to 16 inches at the shoulder and adult females reaching heights of up to 14 inches at the shoulder. Maine Coons are known for their long bodies, with adult males typically reaching lengths of up to 40 inches and adult females reaching lengths of up to 36 inches.
Maine Coons are also known for their long bodies and thick fur, which can make them appear larger than their actual weight. Their legs are also long and sturdy, and they have large paws that are well-suited for walking on snow.
Domestic Longhair Cat Size
On average, adult domestic longhair cats weigh between 8 and 15 pounds and stand about 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Adult domestic longhair cats are about 20 to 25 inches long from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail.
Domestic longhair cats’ weight, length, and height can vary significantly depending on their diet, overall health, and genetic makeup. However, on average, a domestic longhair cat will be larger than a domestic shorthair cat.
Body Shape
The body shape/build of a long hair Maine Coon differs from a domestic longhair cat in the following ways.
Ears
Maine Coon cats have large, fluffy ears. They are usually triangular and are set high on the head. The ears are usually tufted with long hairs, which gives them a distinct appearance. In addition to their size, Maine Coon cats’ ears are also known for their excellent hearing. They can hear sounds much higher in pitch than those that humans can hear, which makes them very good at detecting the presence of small prey.
Domestic longhair cats, also known as longhaired domestic cats, can have a variety of ear shapes and sizes, just like any other breed of domestic cat. Some may have large, fluffy ears similar to those of a Maine Coon, while others may have smaller, more slender ears.
Domestic longhair cats can also have ears set high on the head or lower on the sides of the head. The appearance of a domestic longhair cat’s ears will depend on its genetics and breed mix.
Neck
The neck of a long haired Maine Coon cat is typically long and slender, with a slightly thicker appearance due to the breed’s thick fur. Their long necks help them maintain their balance and agility, allowing them to easily reach high places.
The neck of a domestic longhair cat is similar to that of a Maine Coon cat in that it is typically long and slender. Like Maine Coon cats, domestic longhair cats may have long necks to help them maintain their balance and agility.
Nose
The nose of a Maine Coon cat is typically large and strong, with a straight profile. It is a distinct feature of the breed and is one of the characteristics that make Maine Coons easily recognizable. The nose of a Maine Coon is typically longer and wider than that of other breeds, and it may have a slight curve or dip at the tip. Some Maine Coons may also have a small bump on the bridge of their nose.
The nose of a domestic longhair cat is typically similar to that of other domestic cat breeds. It is typically small and pointed, with a straight or slightly curved profile. Domestic longhair cats can have various coat colors and patterns, and their nose color may also vary.
Some cats may have a pink or light-colored nose, while others may have a darker-colored nose. The size and shape of a domestic longhair cat’s nose may also vary slightly depending on the individual cat and its genetic makeup.
Chin
The chin of a Maine Coon cat is typically strong and prominent, as the breed is known for its large size and sturdy build.
The chin of a domestic longhair cat may vary in appearance depending on the individual cat’s breed and ancestry. They may have a chin that is similar to that of a Maine Coon or another breed with a strong, prominent chin, or they may have a more subtle chin.
Tail
The tail of a long haired Maine Coon cat is long, thick, and bushy. It is a distinctive breed feature and is often referred to as a “plume” or “plumed tail.” The tail is used to balance the Maine Coon when climbing or jumping, and it also serves as a means of communication for the cat.
When the Maine Coon feels happy or content, it may hold its tail upright or gently wave it back and forth. When it feels upset or threatened, it may tuck its tail between its legs or fluff it out to make itself look larger. The tail also wraps around the body for warmth during cold weather.
The tail of a domestic longhair cat can vary in appearance, as domestic longhair cats are not a specific breed and can have a mix of traits from different breeds. However, in general, a domestic longhair cat’s tail may be long and tapering, similar to that of a Maine Coon cat. It may also be thick and bushy or thin and slender. The tail may be used in the same way as a Maine Coon’s tail – for balance and communication. It also wraps around the body for warmth during cold weather.
Fur
The fur of a Maine Coon cat is known for being thick, long, and soft. It is typically water-resistant, which helps the cat stay warm and dry in cold and wet weather. The coat is generally longer on the chest, stomach, and hind legs, giving the appearance of a “skirt” around the cat’s midsection.
Long hair Maine Coon cats also have a characteristic “ruff” of fur around their neck, which gives them a majestic appearance. In general, the fur of a Maine Coon cat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and well-maintained. This can include brushing, combing, and bathing, depending on the individual cat’s needs.
The fur of a domestic longhair cat is typically soft and silky to the touch. It may be short or long, depending on the breed of cat. Domestic longhair cats can have a variety of coat colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, and calico.
They may also have different coat lengths and textures, such as a dense, fluffy coat or a thin, sleek coat. Domestic longhair cats are known for shedding their fur, so it’s important to brush them regularly to help control shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Growth Rate
The growth rate of long haired Maine Coon cats can vary, but they are generally known for being a large cat breed. They typically reach full size at around 3-5 years of age. In the first year of life, Maine Coon kittens can grow quite rapidly, sometimes gaining up to 5 pounds or more in a single year. After their first year, their growth rate will generally slow, although they may continue gaining weight and muscle mass until they reach full maturity at around 5 years of age.
The growth rate of a domestic longhair cat can vary depending on several factors, including its breed, diet, and overall health. In general, kittens grow rapidly during their first few months of life, with their weight increasing by as much as 2-3 times their birth weight within the first few weeks.
After that, their growth rate will slow down slightly, but they will continue to grow and develop until they reach adulthood at around one year of age. Some domestic longhair cats may continue to grow and gain weight beyond one year, but this is not always the case.
Personality Traits
Below is a comparison of the personalities of Maine Coons and Domestic longhair cats.
Territorial
It is natural for long hair Maine Coons to be territorial, as they are a breed of domestic cat known for being fiercely independent and protective of their territory. This territorial behavior can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including marking their territory with urine or marking objects with their scent, patrolling their territory and defending it from intruders, and being possessive of their food and toys.
Like Maine Coons, domestic longhair cats may also exhibit territorial behavior as it is a natural instinct for cats. Domestic longhair cats may mark their territory with urine or mark objects with their scent, patrol their territory and defend it from intruders, and be possessive of their food and toys.
Territorial behavior is a natural instinct for cats and should not be punished or discouraged. Instead, owners of domestic longhair cats should work to provide their cats with a safe and secure environment in which they can feel comfortable and confident.
This may include providing plenty of vertical space for the cat to climb and explore and providing plenty of toys, scratching posts, and other objects that the cat can claim as their own.
Loyalty
Maine Coon cats are known for their loyalty and affection toward their owners. They are intelligent and social animals and form strong bonds with their human companions.
Despite their independent nature, long haired Maine Coon cats are often very attached to their owners and can be quite possessive of them. They are also known to follow their owners around the house and seek their attention and affection.
Domestic longhair cats (DLHs) can be very loyal and affectionate pets. Like all cats, they have unique personalities, so some may be more loyal than others. However, DLHs are generally known for being affectionate and loyal to their owners and can form strong bonds with the people they live with.
They may show their loyalty by following their owners around the house, bringing them gifts (such as small prey animals), and rubbing against them to mark them with their scent. DLHs can also be very protective of their owners and may become agitated if they sense their owner is in danger. Overall, DLHs can make great companions for people looking for loyal and affectionate pets.
Playfulness
Long hair Maine Coon cats are known for being playful and energetic. They are generally very social and enjoy interacting with their human families. They are also intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks or play fetch.
Maine Coons are generally good with children and make excellent family pets. They are also quite athletic and may enjoy playing with a variety of toys, such as scratching posts, laser pointers, and toy mice.
Domestic longhair cats can vary in personality and activity level. Some DLH cats may be more laid back and prefer to nap, while others may be very active and playful. It’s important to remember that each cat is an individual and will have its unique personality and behavior.
DLH cats may generally be less active than some other breeds, such as Siamese or Abyssinian cats, but this can vary greatly from one cat to another. The best way to determine how playful a particular DLH cat is would be to spend time interacting with it and observing its behavior.
Intelligence
Maine Coon cats are intelligent cats, but it is difficult to quantify their intelligence in the same way it is for humans. Cats have different ways of solving problems and adapting to their environment than humans do, and their intelligence is expressed in unique ways to their species.
Maine Coon cats are known for being independent and curious, which are characteristics often associated with intelligence in cats. They are also known for their problem-solving abilities and their ability to learn new things quickly. Some Maine Coon cats may be more intelligent than others, just as is the case with humans.
Like all cat breeds, domestic longhair cats can vary in their intelligence and problem-solving abilities. Domestic longhair cats may be less intelligent in some areas compared to other cat breeds, but they can still be very intelligent and capable animals. It is important to remember that intelligence can vary widely among individual cats, regardless of their breed.
Sociability
Maine Coons are very sociable and friendly cats. They are intelligent, playful, and energetic and enjoy interacting with their families.
Domestic longhair cats, also known as domestic medium hair cats, can vary in their level of sociability. Some domestic longhairs are very friendly and outgoing, while others may be more reserved or independent.
Vocality
Long haired Maine Coons are known for being vocal cats. They make chirping, trilling, and chattering sounds and more typical meows. They are also known to “talk” by making noise when hungry or wanting attention.
Domestic longhair cats can vary in their level of vocalization. Some domestic longhair cats may be more vocal than others, and some may be very quiet. Domestic longhair cats may make various sounds, including meows, purrs, trills, and chirps.
They may vocalize for various reasons, such as to communicate their needs or desires, to greet their humans, or to express excitement or frustration. Suppose you are considering adopting a domestic longhair cat and are concerned about its level of vocalization. In that case, it may be helpful to spend some time with the cat and observe its behavior before making a decision.
Domestic Longhair vs. Maine Coon: Health
Here’s how the health of Maine Coons and domestic longhair cats compare
Maine Coon Health Issues
Maine Coon cats are generally healthy but can be prone to the following health issues.
- Hip dysplasia
- Cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Feline infectious peritonitis
Domestic Longhair Cat Health Issues
Like any other cat breed, domestic longhair cats can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues that domestic longhair cats may face include:
- Dental problems: Domestic longhair cats, like all cats, are prone to dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
- Obesity: Domestic longhair cats, like any other cat breed, can become overweight if they are overfed and do not get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to several serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
- Urinary tract problems: Cats can develop urinary tract problems such as urinary tract infections and bladder stones.
- Skin problems: Domestic longhair cats can develop skin problems such as allergies, fleas, and mites. These problems can cause itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin.
- Upper respiratory infections: Domestic longhair cats, like all cats, are prone to upper respiratory infections such as colds and flu.
Are All Longhaired Cats Maine Coon Cats?
Not all longhaired cats are Maine Coons. Maine Coons are a specific breed of cat known for their long, thick coats. They are also known for their large size and distinctive appearance. However, there are many other breeds of longhaired cats, such as the Persian, the Somali, domestic longhair, and the Turkish Angora, that do not have the same characteristics as the Maine Coon.
But are all Maine Coon Cats long haired? Not all Maine Coon cats have long hair. Some may have shorter fur, or their fur may be more sleek and smooth. The length and texture of a Maine Coon’s fur can vary due to genetics, diet, and other factors.
Conclusion
Long hair Maine Coon cats are a specific breed of domestic cat known for their large size, fluffy coats, and friendly personalities. Domestic Longhair cats are not a specific cat breed but rather a category of cats that includes any domestic cat with a long coat.
While Maine Coons and Domestic Longhairs can have similar physical characteristics, they differ in terms of their breeding and ancestry. Maine Coons are a recognized breed with a distinct history and set of breed standards, while Domestic Longhairs are a diverse group of cats that can have a variety of coat lengths and colors.
Both Maine Coons and Domestic Longhairs can make wonderful pets, and the best choice for an individual will depend on their personal preferences and needs.
