Coonish Cat – Breed#47

Introduction

The Coonish cat has been described as a cat which physically and/or in personality resembles the well known Maine Coon breed. Although the term Coonish is not an official cat breed recognized by major cat associations, many cat owners have adopted the term Coonish, as they observe some domestic cats that resemble Maine Coons in either their looks, temper, or flair-like appearance.

This article answers the question of what could be meant by referring to a cat as Coonish, how that cat can be identified, the features that describe them, and making of a cat that makes a good pet. Once familiar with this guide, you can be a long-time cat owner or decide to take your first steps in this fantastic world of cats; it is going to help you get to know more about this unusual type of cat.

What Does “Coonish” Mean?

A Non-Breed With Breed-Like Traits

Coonish is a name used to refer to a category of cats, which have physical and behavioral traits resembling the Maine Coon which is a very popular and recognizable type of cat breed in the world. Coonish cat can be only identified as a cat with not pedigree or registered breed status yet with some clear obvious features that leaves a trace of the Maine Coon signature attractiveness.

There are some cats that are born coonish by mixed ancestry or by chance. Such cats usually attract attention by their crazy, kingly appearance and their rather peculiar behavior of being affectionate.

Origins of the Maine Coon Influence

Tracing Back the Lineage

Maine Coons are said to have originated in the Northeastern part of the US into Maine where they naturally evolved to be hardy long haired working cats of the farms and ships. They were valuable pets because of their ability to withstand the harsh climatic conditions, sturdy fur, and being very sociable.

With a course of time, their popularity preconditioned the recognition of the Maine Coon race. But cats that had not been registered and were not raised with controlled breeding standards, though still some resembled Maine Coons, started to attain this unofficial status of being called Coonish.

It has become the loose term applied by cat owners, breeders, and adopters who observe the Maine Coon tendencies in unregistered and mixed-breed cats.

Coonish Cat Characteristics

How to Spot a Coonish Cat

What then makes a cat Coonish? Most of the Coonish cats have a number of these characteristics and features, but not every single one of them:

Physical Traits:

• Huge Size: The size of a Coonish cat is much larger than the average domestic cat, commonly ranging in weight between 15-25 pounds among males.
• Long, streaming Coat: This is a regular characteristic of a water-resistant, shaggy, double coat.
• Bushy Tail: Thick, plumed tails like those of a raccoon are a giveaway
• Ear Tufts: Often possess lynx-like tufts on the ears.
• Good Bone Structure: Coonish cats are muscular and also have good bone structures.
• Square Muzzle: The face can look like a Maine Coons, having high cheekbones and squared muzzle.

Personality Traits:

• Sociable: These cats are sociable, dog-like in their loyalty and inquisitive attitude to human pursuits.
• Mischievous: These are animals that, most of the time, keep behaving like kittens even in adulthood.
• Smart: The Coonish cats are intelligent and usually quick learners and problem solvers.
• Gentle Giants: These are the ones that are big, yet they tend to be very sweet and good-natured.
• Vocal: they tend to chat using chirping, trilling, and light meowing.

Coonish Cats and Mixed Breeds

Nature’s Unique Hybrids

A large number of Coonish cats are cross-breeds or adopted cats of unknown origin. These cats can be the descendant of Maine Coons, but it is also possible that they have just inherited a set of qualities, which are very compliant to the breed.

Maine Coons do frequently show up in a shelter or a rescue labeled as a Maine Coon mix or Coon-like because of this physical look. But, it cannot be ascertained as to the precise heritage unless genetic tests are conducted. That certainly does not render such cats any less wonderful, in most cases, rather the opposite.

Coonish Cat Care Requirements

What It Takes to Keep Them Healthy and Happy

Coonish cats are not a registered breed yet they may require a similar care as Maine Coons, particularly when they share similar characteristics with regards to coat, size and activity.

Grooming:

• Brush Weekly (or More): Long coats need to be brushed to avoid mats and tangles frequently.
• Cleaning Ears and Eyes: Their bigger ears would also require them to have them checked sometimes so as to ensure that the ears are not covered up by dirt or accumulation of wax.
• Nail Trimming: Just like other cats, Coonish cats love having their nails trimmed frequently.

Nutrition:

• High-quality Proteins: Their big bodies and activities require that they consume high-quality sources of protein.
• Weight Control: Maintaining a check on the size of the portion to prevent obesity, which can impair joint health.
• Hydration: Promote and encourage drinking a lot of water or having wet food, which helps the kidneys stay healthy.

Activity:

• Mental: Puzzle feeders, play-with-stuff, and even training programs keep them occupied.
• Vertical Space: They are climbers, thus cat trees and shelves would be a good idea.
• Playtime: The daily play enables them to make use of this energy and prevents them from being bored or destructive.

Health and Lifespan

A Robust Companion With a Few Concerns

Unpaired coonish cats may have the advantage of what is termed hybrid vigor, i.e., greater health in cross-breeding. But in case they are genetically attuned to Maine Coon, they might as well be vulnerable to certain factors that could put their health in danger.

Potential Health Issues:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart disease found in Maine Coons
• Hip Dysplasia: It is possible to develop joint problems as the hip is too large
• Dental problems: They have powerful jaws, which result in cases of overgrowth of teeth.
• Obesity: There is an increased tendency to attain excessive weight in large cats

A Coonish cat may survive between 12 to 17 years or more in case of a healthy lifestyle and periodic veterinary examinations.

Check Out: Chausie Cat – Breed#46.

Coonish Cat Temperament and Family Life

Great for the Right Home

Coonish cat has a caring and playful nature, which qualifies them to be the best pet cats in most homes. They get along with families with kids, other cats, or even dogs, as long as they are introduced.

Best Environments:

• BHEctic Homes: They succeed in places where there is some activity and interest.
• Only Pet Homes: When provided plenty of playtime, they are superb alone.
• Indoors: With their coat and personality, they are more of an indoor or controlled outdoor animal.

They get extremely attached to their human companions and tend to move with them throughout, moving in separate rooms in a house, hoping to be included in every activity.

Should You Adopt a Coonish Cat?

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Striking, majestic appearance
• Gentle, sociable, and affectionate
• Smart and playful
• Often more resilient than purebreds

Cons:

• Requires regular grooming
• Needs stimulation to prevent boredom
• Can be vocal
• Large size may be challenging in small homes

Finally, a Coonish cat is a beautiful creature that can also be extremely gratifying to adopt because, once in love with this cat, you will discover its expressive and caring side with a sense of drama.

How to Find a Coonish Cat

Adoption or Breeder?

In case you want to buy a cat with Coonish features, you should begin by visiting the local shelters and rescue groups. A good number of long haired cats classified as Maine Coons mix are in the Coonish variety.

Pedigree Maine Coon with assurance of the specific characteristics that they possess should be obtained through the reputable breeders. But keep in mind, Coonish charm is not always genetic; it is something more, such as personality, presence, and connection.

Conclusion

The Coonish cat is not a breed, but is largely what most people admire in the Maine Coon. Being either a product of shelter, a backyard, or a litter of a friend, Coonish cats can easily turn out to surprise and impress you with their dignified appearance and warm inner nature.

They are not only very intelligent, playful, and gentle, which makes them suitable to both families and individuals (particularly those who are prepared to offer an interesting and affectionate home). And, should you happen to be lucky enough to adopt a Coonish cat, you will reveal to your own delight the character, the accent, the curiosity which makes up his stuff.

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