Black Maine Coon

Black cats have been associated with witches and magic for centuries and who can blame them? They’re mysterious, they can disappear into the night and they’re simply magical.

While we know for a fact that Maine Coon cats are majestic, regal and a man’s biggest cat-friend, would a witch choose them as their familiar?

And most importantly do they come in black?

Are there Black Maine Coon cats? Compared to other color combinations, Black Maine Coons are rare, and this unique trait has made them very popular. A true black Maine Coon is defined by their black fur in all three layers, with only the tips of their ears being an acceptable exception.

If you want to find out more about the mysterious black Maine Coon cats, then keep on reading!

Let’s get to it!

The History And Mythology Of The Black Maine Coon Cat

Maine Coon cats are believed to be the oldest North American Breed. The first state to recognize this breed was Maine and it wasn’t long after, that the Maine Coon cat was branded as the official cat of the Maine state.

Also known as the Maine shag, this wild-looking breed is believed to be a cross between the Angora cats of the Middle East and the shorthair American farm cats. Studies also suggest that they’re related to the Western cat breeds. But what truly makes them special is how they evolved to survive the cold climate of North America. For their resilience, this longhaired beauty is considered a natural breed by Cat Fancy organizations.

As mentioned earlier, the state of Maine adored these cats. They were the pride and joy of the farmers and not only were these cats beautiful they also helped keep the rodent population under control. But as times changed this breed was almost forgotten. Thankfully, the Maine Coons were rediscovered in the 50s, and naturally, they rose in popularity in the next decades. Soon enough they were was recognized by the American Fancier Association and it has been the top cat breed for most Americans ever since.

Facts Or Legends?

Because of the harsh winters and the wild environment in Maine, as well as the distances between human settlements, this native cat breed, stayed unmixed for hundreds of years. But there are many stories that try to explain the first appearance of the Maine Shag, most of them are legends and myths rather than facts.

The two most believable explanations suggest that the ancestral cats of Maine Coons were brought by the earliest English settlers, but it’s quite possible that they were actually brought by the Vikings. If this is the case, then the resilient Norwegian Forest cats could be the in fact related to the Maine Coon. The Norwegian Forest cat can also be found dressed in black, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that black Maine Coon cats exist.

There are, of course, stories that are less believable. Some suggest that Maine Coon cats are the result of cats breeding with raccoons. While they might share similar colorations, it’s a well-known fact that different species don’t mix. Otherwise, we’d have cat-dogs or dog-cats walking among us right now!

There’s another myth that suggests that these barn cats and mousers of New England, were blue-blooded Aristocats! Specifically, these cats were the long-haired royal cats of Marie Antoinette. During the French Revolution, Samuel Clough was to bring her and her cats across to America. While Antoinette didn’t make it, allegedly her Persian and Angora cats did!

While the Maine Coon cats do have an air of aristocracy to them, their French ancestry is doubtful. Captain Coon an English sea captain is another figure believed to have brought cats with him. This could explain their name, but most people are skeptical about this explanation.

Last but not least, there’s another unlikely story, which suggests that Maine Coon cats are the result of bobcats and housecats breeding. While it’s not a usual crossbreed and perhaps even impossible, some people believe this to be true. After all, they share similar heavy fur coats, tufted ears, and large hairy paws.

Do Black Maine Coon Cats Exist?

While it’s not a common color pattern for this breed, there are black Maine Coon cats. Of course, there can be many variations when it comes to a Maine Coon’s fur color. A solid black Maine Coon is usually harder to find.

This dark shade can easily trick you to believe that you own a solid black Maine Coon. Because their fur is so thick and layered, you might find that their undercoat might have different pigmentation or even color.

How To Tell If Your Black Cat Is A Maine Coon?

It can be difficult to tell if a cat is part of the Maine Coon breed just by looking at it, especially when they’re black. It’s not that these gentle giants aren’t distinguishable, but there are a few long-haired breeds out there that look quite similar to the Maine Coon.

For example, the Norwegian Forest Cat and the Siberian cat share similar traits that go beyond size. What’s more confusing is that they also can be found in darker shades. This in turn could make it even more difficult to make out the small features and traits that make a Maine Coon stand out. Your cat could also be mixed, which could leave anyone confused.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with not having a purebred cat, because all cats are equally beautiful and unique. But if you’d like to become more of an expert in recognizing a black Maine Coon when you see one, or if you’d like to make sure that the kitty that barely fits on your lap is a black Maine Shag then we got you covered!

Physical Features of Black Maine Coon Cats

What set’s the Maine Coon apart from most breeds is their size and built. They’re one of the largest domesticated cats in the world and number one in America. But it’s also the details that we should be paying attention to when it comes to these dark beauties.

Head And Nose

The Maine Coon’s head has a distinct square shape, and their elongated nose gives them a lion-like resemblance. It might take a minute to see this likeness on a black Maine Coon, but it’s definitely there. Their muzzle is also wide and square and by looking at their profile you’ll find a gentle concave curve.

Their eyes are wide-set and slightly slanted shaped. It’s a magnificent moment to find a black Maine Coon looking back at you, with their large, usually golden, or green, round eyes.

Ears

While their face may be the animal version of the actor Ron Perlman; their ears are the real eyecatchers. They’re large of course and they have these furry tufts called “furnishings”. These hairs not only stick out of their ears but also above the tips. Usually, they’re white even on a sold black Maine Coon. This feature makes it hard not to believe that they’re not related to the Lynx.

Body Shape And Structure

The Maine Coon had to survive the harsh climate of the Pine Tree state, which explains their long, strong, and muscular bodies. These conditions might actually be the reason, why they developed into such large cats. Their broad chest is even more accentuated thanks to their medium-length legs, compared to the rest of their body.

Their tufty paws are large, and the extra fur protects their feet from the cold snow. But what’s even more unique about their paws is a mutation called polydactyly. This mutation means that Maine Coon cats carry the gene for extra toes. So, don’t be surprised if you realize that your kitty has five or even six toes!

Tail

As you’ve probably noticed already, a cat’s tail can be a great indicator of what your kitty is feeling. If you own a black Maine Coon their feelings also end up looking magnificent at the same time. Their tails are fluffy and thick and they’re usually as long as the cat’s body! But don’t stare too much at your cat’s swaying black tail, or you could end up hypnotized!

Size And Weight

Of course, their size is their trademark and statistics suggest that the Maine Coon cats can possibly reach up to 6.8 to 11.3 kg (15-25lb) in weight. Not only are they big and heavy, Maine Coon cats can get very long, and Barivel the longest according to Guinness World Records domestic cat is here to prove it! And the proof is 4ft long!

Coat And Color

All Maine Coon cats have long and shaggy furs, that give them a rougher look. They also have this ruff around their neck which makes their chest look more puffed out and regal. If you’ve ever stroked a Maine Coon you’ve probably noticed that their fur is rougher, but the undercoat is actually softer to the touch.

Because this breed was exposed to cold weather and they probably had to walk through thick snow their fur is water-resistant. Of course, it’s not completely waterproof, but this characteristic gives them better protection from the cold and keeps their undercoat dry for longer.

Maine Coon cats come in different colors and color patterns. That’s why this feature doesn’t really set them apart from most breeds in this department. But when it comes to black, these colors truly make them look unusual!

Black Cat Superstitions

We all know the stories about witches and their black cats, or how black cats bring bad luck. Frankly, if someone thought I was the bringer of bad luck I would probably jinx them too! But jokes aside this superstition, rooted in western folklore, has been bad for black cats to this day.

There are of course places like Egypt where black cats were adored and the Irish and Scots thought they brought prosperity. Unfortunately, most people seem to grow weary when a cat walks across the street or meets passes next to them, to this day.

Studies and researchers are here to prove that these beliefs can be damaging. The idea of black cat bias has been circulating for a long time and they tried to find out if cats with black fur were actually viewed more negatively. One of the conclusions was that people found it difficult reading black cat’s emotions, so they were less likely to adopt a one.

Another study conducted on almost 8,000 cats in Kentucky shelters, as well as a study of Shelters in Colorado, also agreed that black cats were to some degree less likely to be adopted and more likely to be euthanized. It’s very sad to hear that these kinds of outdated beliefs are still supported. It makes me even sadder whenever I look at my black cat, as he rests his large behind on my pillow.

While many stray black cats face this kind of discrimination it seems that Black Maine Coon cats are not facing the same problem these days. Despite superstitions or the idea that black cats are more aggressive these dark giants are not only more accepted, but they’re sought out.

Black Maine Coon Genetics

If we follow basic feline genetics, in order for a Maine Coon cat to be a solid black color, at last one of their parents must also be solid black. Specifically, female cats get their coat color genes from each parent, while the male gets them from their mother. That’s why for a litter to be solid black, it’s better for both parents to be solid black. This could prove pretty difficult since this would require specialized breeding.

Breeding solid black Maine Coons is also quite tricky, because if you can’t have two solid black parents then it should always be the female that’s black. This leads to a certain paradox in a way. Since males get their color gene from their mother, then the litter will most likely have solid black males. This could explain the rarity of this specific color pattern in Maine Coons.

How To Identify A Black Maine Coon?

As we explained above, finding out if a cat is a black Maine Coon can be tricky especially when they’re black. But if you’re certain that your cat is in fact a Maine Coon then the last step would be to find what kind of black coat they have.

Types of Black Maine Coon Coats

The shades that black Maine Coon cats can have, are four, according to the Cat Fanciers Association.

1.Solid Black

While it might be the easiest to identify, it’s the rarest. In this case, the fur should be solid black from root to tip with no hints of rust or discoloration. The undercoat should also be black, with no white or grey. Their nose should be black, but the paws can be black or brown.

2.Smoke Black

A Maine Coon with this type of coat has a white undercoat that is deeply tipped with black. This type of coloration can be mistaken as black, but if you run your fingers through the coat, the white should reveal itself. The paws and nose are black, while there’s silver at the tips and tufts of their ears.

The intensity of the white or black differs from cat to cat and while some might look almost black, others can appear smokier and greyer. This type of coloring is considered the most common among the black Maine Coon cats.

3.Black Smoke and White

In this case, you’ll find your kitty having all four paws white, a white belly and ruff while the rest of his body is smoke black. Their faces are also usually black and can have a few white spots. This type of coloring is also quite charming, as most of their coat looks like smoke with the grey black and white creating a soft gradient.

4.Black and white

This is the easiest color to identify and it’s quite usual in most cats as well. Despite the commonality, it’s a beautiful combination of black and white. This contrast can be striking, especially on a large cat, like the Maine Coon. Their paws, belly is usually white, and their faces can also be white.

Can A Black Maine Coon Cat Change Color?

When looking at a black cat you might notice the fur looking brownish. It could be a slight tint or even spots of rusty brown color. I oftentimes notice this exact hint of brown on my black cat as he rolls around on my sunlit balcony. So why does a solid black cat look brown beneath the sun?

Sun Exposure

The change in your black kitty’s fur color could be because of sun exposure. If our hair can go a few shades lighter because of the sun, it’s possible that the same can happen to our cats. This usually happens to cats that spend most of their time outdoors, laying in sunny areas.

If this is the case for your kitty it’s important to provide them with lots of water. Perhaps you could add a few ice cubes in their water bowl to keep it cool for longer. I usually use a damp towel to pat their fur and help them cool down. It’s also important to remember that windows won’t protect our cats from getting harmful sun exposure, so perhaps a light curtain will filter the harsh light and still keep your kitty warm.

I also avoid letting them out when the sun is too harsh because even though they’re mostly covered in fur, there are parts of their body that are exposed, like their ears and nose.  It’s quite possible for cats to get sunburned, or even heatstroke, especially for black Maine Coon cats who have a dense coat. If you see your cat panting with their tongue outside, this could be a sign of thirst or overheating.

Tyrosine Deficiency

While the sun could cause slight discoloration, it’s still not strong enough to turn your solid black kitty into a brown cat. Tyrosine deficiency on the other hand could make your cat look rusty.

Tyrosine is an enzyme responsible for the production of eumelanin, and melanin is the pigment that makes your cat’s fur black as night. Melanin is really important because it protects us from the sun, so there’s a greater risk for your black kitty to get sunburned.

To make sure that your kitty isn’t suffering from Tyrosine deficiency you should visit your vet, who’ll do some blood work. Perhaps you’ll have to start a specific treatment, or change your kitty’s diet with tyrosine supplements, to keep him healthy and black.

Copper Deficiency

This deficiency also leads to your black cat’s depigmentation, meaning they will lose their black color. Copper is important because tyrosine amino acid needs it for pigmentation. It has also been found that when an ingredient called gelatin was given to kittens their fur changed color from black to reddish-brown. So, your cat’s diet might have something to do with their rusty fur.

Health Problems And Aging

Aside from the sun and certain deficiencies, there are other reasons why your kitty could lose their dark color. You may notice this change in your black Maine Coon, as a result of thyroid problems or liver and kidney disease. As always, the best choice for your kitty would be to take them to the vet so they can get a proper diagnose and get the right medical help.

Age also plays a role in your black Maine Coon’s fur change. As a cat gets older it’s more susceptible to diseases and could even show signs of copper and tyrosine deficiency much later in their life. Moreso, some cats can produce silver or white hair, which could also be a sign of aging.

How To Care For A Black Maine Coon?

Of course, all cats need to be cared for and while some might require less specialized care, others depend on it. Black Maine Coon cats have their own set of requirements mostly because of their breed, but their black fur could also need some additional care.

Grooming

Grooming might not be essential if you have a Sphynx cat or even a short-haired cat, but with a Maine Coon, skipping this care routine could be really harmful to both of you. Grooming a black Maine Coon is important, to undo any hair clumps and knots. It will keep those hairballs at a minimum and it will minimize the shedding.

To keep your house fur-free and your cat happy you should brush their fur at least three or two times a week. The more often you do it the less shedding and knots you’ll encounter. Since bonded cats usually groom each other, it could also benefit your relationship. This could be a great moment to interact with your black Main Coon.

Of course, black Maine Coon coats can appear trickier than others, so you’ll need a good and resilient tool. This self-cleaning grooming brush from Amazon can be a game-changer for both of you. Black hair can be tricky when it comes to dirt. While dust is obviously visible, for a cat that enjoys their life outdoors dirt might go unnoticed. You might want to consider giving them a bath now and again with a cat-friendly shampoo.

A cat’s fur helps them regulate their temperature, so cutting it even during summer, could have the opposite effect of what you’re aiming for. During the hot months, their freshly exposed skin could get sunburned. Instead of cutting their fur, you could carefully trip the tips.

If you notice your black Maine Coon’s fur change color, then try to keep them away from the harsh midday sun. If the rusty color is intense, or there’s no sun exposure then a trip to the vet could be necessary. Some vets would suggest a specialized sunscreen to keep your cat’s ears, nose, and any other exposed areas from burning.

Health

The Maine Coon cats had to survive the harsh winters of North America which made them quite resilient. While they’re not prone to many health problems they can develop or show signs of specific conditions.

Weight Problems

Neutered and spayed cats are more prone to obesity so it’s important not to overfeed your loving cat. Maine Coon’s can give us the illusion that they need a huge deal of food because of their size, and black Maine Coon even more so. But it’s important to remember that even though they might be eating more than the average cat, their food intake still needs to be moderated.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick and subsequentially it makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood. Unfortunately, this condition is quite common among the Maine Coon cats, and by testing the parents of a Maine Coon kitten you can identify this disease.

According to research, “Cats with mild to moderate thickening may never develop clinical signs referable to their disease and may live normal lives.” It’s also important to note that cats that have a severe case of Hypertrophic Cardiopathy, can show subtle signs of heart failure.

If you observe your cat’s respiratory rate increase when they’re resting, you should definitely take them to the vet for proper examination. The same goes for when your cat is stressed, and they show signs of panting and difficulty breathing.

Hip Dysplasia

The size of a Black Maine Coon can be mesmerizing, but sometimes it can come at a prize. One-quarter of Maine Coon cats that were tested, had symptoms of Hip Dysplasia, suggests the Orthopedic Foundations for Animals.

If you’re not familiar with this condition, Hip Dysplasia is when the ball and socket part of the hip joint becomes misaligned and loose. This, as explained by Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, means that the top of the thigh can’t fit properly inside it and offer a smooth movement. This could also result in painful arthritis and lameness, thus, reducing your kitty’s general wellbeing.

It’s also important to mention that this breed is prone to developing spinal muscular atrophy. You’ll find this condition affecting their walk and posture and it’s advisable that you keep your kitty indoors. This way not only will you avoid straining their body, but you’ll be able to closely watch over them.

Polycystic Kidney

While Hypertrophic Cardiopathy can be discovered through a kitten’s parents, Polycystic Kidney can’t be found in a DNA test. This condition is genetic, and it progressively destroys the kidneys.

Black Maine Coon Health Issues

It’s important to remember that all the diseases mentioned, could potentially affect all Maine Coon cats, but there’s no study suggesting that black Maine coons are more prone to some of them.

The only condition you should be on the lookout for when it comes to their color are signs of rusty-brown discoloration.

Exercise and Attention

Because of their grand size, Maine Coon cats have more energy, thus, they need exercise on a daily basis, especially if it’s a strictly indoor cat. Teaching your kitty to go out on a leash can be a great way to spend part of that energy on exploring the world and running around.

If on the other hand, you keep your cat indoors, you still can and should keep them fit. Because most indoor cats are in danger of getting obese, you could help your cat by playing with them. Use interactive toys and cat towers that reach all the way up to the ceiling. Give them access to places close to the ceiling so they can observe you from afar. Cat trees are obviously the easiest way to do this and can also be a great opportunity for cats to get exercise. Just keep in mind, Maine Coon cats will often need a bigger cat tree and you can see our favorite options for these big cats here.

Playing with your cat is beneficial for their weight, but also for relieving their hunting instincts. You’ll find your cat crying less at night if you have a session before going to be. Most importantly both of you will discover a new bonding activity. Your black Maine Coon will be more than thankful that you spend your time playing with them!

Lifespan

As much as we wouldn’t want to think of our cats leaving us for the cat-heaven it can be useful to know or better be prepared for that day. But it’s also important to understand that there are different factors at play as shown in some gathered data. Indoor cats can live up to 17 years, in fact, one of the oldest cats in the world who lived until he was 31 was a Maine Coon!

Unfortunately, outdoor cats face more risks when they’re free to go where they please. Depending on the area one lives in, there can be cars, poisoned food, and transmitted diseases from other cats and rats that could affect their health. But even outdoor cats have a longer lifespan, unlike stray cats that live an average of two to five years.

Purebred cats have also faced a shorter lifespan on average. Maine Coon cats usually live up to 11 to 12 years. A study based on the records from Swedish insurance companies analyzed the probability of survival for different breeds. The results showed that Maine Coons have an 80% chance of reaching their fifth year and only a 41% chance of making it to the age of 12.5.

We don’t have the power or a say on our cat’s life expectancy, but there are a few things that we can do. Regular vet visits, vaccination, and antiparasitic medication can help stay on top of our kitty’s health. Being on the lookout for signs of pain or discomfort can also help you prevent any further issues and help your kitty live a full and long life.

Climate

While the black coat might not be associated with a snowy landscape, it’s important to remember that a Maine Coon is still a breed that enjoys cool environments. Of course, since the rise of their popularity, you can find black Maine Coon’s anywhere and according to Megan McCorkel, DVM, CVMA, this breed is capable of adapting to warmer and humid climates.

If you’re from a warmer country, then there are a few things to consider before you adopt this northern beauty. If you plan on keeping your longhaired kitty as an indoor cat only, then an AC can be a lifesaver. Cold snacks, water with a few ice cubes in it, available at all times, could also help your black Maine Coon survive the hot months.

Black Maine Coons are even more susceptible to overheating, specifically because of their dark fur. In case you plan on having your kitty outdoors, make sure there are shaded areas they can hide at. Perhaps avoid letting them out when the sun is too harsh. Frequent grooming could also help your kitty feel cooler as they lose the unnecessary fur stuck to them.

Pay extra care to the bottom of their paws. While our shoes prevent us from feeling the heated concrete beneath, your black Maine Coon might end up burning theirs. If you see cracks on their paws, then visit your vet to get a special creme that can help with the drying.

Are Black Maine Coon Cats Good Pets?

I truly think this question shouldn’t be asked because the answer is, of course! If the question comes from a place of black cat bias, then there’s plenty of data to prove this theory wrong. A cat’s color doesn’t really affect its character, but as we talked about before it might influence the way we see them.

Before you decide on a black Maine Coon, it’s important to recognize any type of superstations we might have regarding black cats. Sometimes we might end up seeing things that aren’t’ there just because of some prejudice.

Personality

These beautiful cats are not called kind giants for no reason. Their size seems to be as great as their personality. These cats love connecting with their owners and they can be a great addition to large families with children since they’re so playful and energetic. Scientists have actually done their research on that one and suggest that Maine Coon cats are naturally active and friendly companions.

Of course, black, or not all Maine Coons will have their unique quirks and personality traits. Most of them are believed to maintain their playful characters even as they get older and they can be demanding when it comes to attention. This breed is also quite vocal, so don’t be surprised if you find your black Maine coon use their voice to ask for something. Many of them also have a distinct chirping sound, that is surprisingly sweet and delicate compared to their size.

A cat’s potential for cuddling, overall tenderness, and love is also dependent on our own behavior. The more we show them positive emotions, spend time with them, and meet their needs, the more love and attention we’ll receive from them.

Just look at this cuddly black Maine Coon!