Comprehensive Guide to Orange Maine Coon Cats

When it comes to unique and captivating feline companions, the orange Maine Coon cat stands out as a striking breed that often gets confused with ginger Maine Coons due to their similar coloring.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these distinctive felines.

Understanding Orange Maine Coon Cats

Identification: Maine Coons have gained immense popularity in recent years, thanks to their luxurious thick fur, gentle personalities, and imposing size. These highly intelligent cats come in over 75 different color variations, and one of the most fascinating among them is the Orange Maine Coon, often referred to as “ginger.”

It’s important to note that the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) officially classifies this color as ‘red.’

Red Maine Coon Color Classes: The Red Maine Coon, which includes the Orange variety, falls into four primary color classes:

1. Solid Color Class (Name: RED): This class includes Maine Coons with the same color criteria as red tabbies, either with or without white on the face. They must have white markings on all four feet, their belly, and their bib to be included in this category.
2. Red Tabby Color Class (Name: RED TABBY): CFA classifies the red tabby fur coloring as ‘ground color red (classic, mackerel, ticked).’ These cats should ideally have brick-red nose leather and paw pads.
3. Red Tabby and White Color Class (including Vans) (Name: RED TABBY AND WHITE): Similar to the red tabby class but may include white markings on the face.
4. Bi-Color Color Class (including Vans)(Name: RED AND WHITE): These Maine Coons have a mixture of red and white fur. White on the face may or may not be present, but all four paws must have white markings.

Maine Coon Colors with Hints of Orange

Apart from the Red Maine Coon classifications, several other Maine Coon colorings feature hints of orange within them. While they are not classified under a unique color class, they still showcase beautiful variations. Some of these include:

• Brown Patched Tabby Colour Class (Name: Brown Patched Tabby): Fur is characterized by a brilliant coppery brown ground color with dense black markings.
• Silver Patched Tabby Class (Name: Silver Patched Tabby): These cats feature striking silver tabby patterns.
• All Other Tabby Color Class (Name: Cameo Tabby): Known for various tabby patterns with shades of red.
• Parti-color Color Class (Name: Tortoiseshell): Black fur with patches of red or intermingled areas of red.
• Parti-color Color Class (Name: Tortoiseshell): White undercoat with a mantle of red tipping shading down the sides, tail, and face.
• Shaded & Smoke Color Class (Name: Shell Cameo): The undercoat is white, and the coat features red tipping, creating a sparkling appearance.
• Shaded & Smoke Color Class (Name: Shaded Cameo – red shaded): Similar to Shell Cameo but with slight black tipping.
• Shaded & Smoke Color Class (Name: Shell Tortoiseshell): Features a white undercoat deeply tipped with black and patches of red.
• Shaded & Smoke Color Class (Name: Shaded Tortoiseshell): White undercoat with a mantle of black and red shading.
• Shaded & Smoke Color Class (Name: Cameo Smoke – red smoke): The undercoat is white, deeply tipped with red.

Characteristics of Orange Maine Coon Cats

Orange Maine Coon cats share many characteristics with other Maine Coon color variations. While each cat is unique, if you have a purebred orange Maine Coon, you can generally expect the following traits:

1. Overly Affectionate

Maine Coons are renowned for their affectionate nature. They often seek out their owners for cuddles and attention, even when it’s not reciprocated.

2. Loyal

These cats are exceptionally loyal and tend to stay close to their owners. They thrive on companionship and enjoy spending time with their human families.

3. Gentle

Maine Coons are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their docile and non-aggressive nature. They rarely hiss or show aggression, making them great family pets.

4. Good With Other House Pets

Their sociable disposition makes them ideal for households with other pets. Maine Coons are natural diplomats and often get along well with other animals.

5. Playful

Maine Coons maintain their playful nature throughout their lives. They are curious and enjoy exploring, making them a constant source of entertainment.

6. Good Hunters

These cats have a strong hunting instinct, so don’t be surprised if they bring you “presents” in the form of captured critters. This behavior is their way of showing affection.

7. Friendly

Male Maine Coons tend to be more outwardly friendly to strangers compared to their female counterparts, who are initially more reserved but warm up over time.

8. Highly Intelligent

Maine Coon cats are exceptionally intelligent and can learn tricks and commands. Their quick-wittedness adds to their charm and makes them engaging companions.

9. Love Water

One quirky trait of Maine Coons is their fascination with water. They might spend time playing with water, patting it out of their water bowls, or even taking a dip in the bath.

Orange Maine Coon Size

Maine Coons are renowned for their substantial size, often ranking as the largest domesticated cat breed in the world. Here’s a breakdown of their size characteristics:

a) Male Orange Maine Coon Size

• Length: Male Orange Maine Coons can reach an impressive length of up to 40 inches.
• Height: On average, they stand between 10 to 16 inches.
• Weight: Fully grown males typically weigh between 15 to 25 pounds.

b) Female Orange Maine Coon Size

• Length: Female Maine Coons share a similar length range of 19 to 40 inches.
• Height: They measure around 8 to 14 inches on average.
• Weight: Adult females usually weigh between 8 to 12 pounds.

Maine Coons are slow growers, often taking 3 to 4 years to reach their full size. It’s crucial to monitor their diet to prevent obesity, a common issue in this breed.

Orange Maine Coon Cost

Acquiring an orange Maine Coon cat comes with a price tag, reflecting their popularity and unique qualities. The cost can vary based on factors like age and pedigree:

• Kitten (under 9 months): You can expect to pay around $1000 (£819) for a kitten.
• Cat (over 9 months): The price for adult cats is typically around $600 (£471).
• Senior Cat: Even older Maine Coons may cost around $600 (£471).

For those interested in breeding Maine Coons or seeking cats for show competitions, prices can go up to $2000 (£1580) for a kitten or cat with no spaying or neutering, along with genetic screening to ensure the absence of common health issues.

Where to Find Orange Maine Coon Cats

If you’re considering adding an orange Maine Coon to your family, you have several options for finding one:

1. Registered Maine Coon Breeders

The best way to ensure you get a healthy and well-cared-for cat is to purchase from a registered Maine Coon breeder. These breeders prioritize the well-being of their cats and can provide you with purebred paperwork and pedigree status.

2. Rescue Centers and Animal Shelters

Consider adopting an orange Maine Coon from a rescue center or animal shelter. Sometimes, you can find these unique cats at a lower cost while providing a loving home to a cat in need.

3. Online Platforms

Online platforms like Facebook, Gumtree, or Craigslist may have listings for Maine Coon kittens. Exercise caution when using these platforms, and always follow best practices for online transactions.

4. Pet Shops

Local pet shops may occasionally have Maine Coon kittens for sale, although finding a specific color variant like orange might be less predictable.

When searching for an orange Maine Coon, always prioritize the well-being of the cat and ensure it comes from a reputable source.

In conclusion, the Orange Maine Coon cat is a captivating and unique breed with a range of appealing characteristics. Whether you’re drawn to their striking appearance, playful nature, or affectionate disposition, an orange Maine Coon can make a wonderful addition to your family. Just remember to choose your source wisely to ensure a happy and healthy life for your feline companion.