Meeting the Neighbor’s Maine Coon While Baby Cat Snoozes in the Sun

Hi, I’m Nicole! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my distinguished Burmese, Mr. Baby Cat.

They say when the cat’s away the mice will play, and in our case, while the cat sleeps, his humans meet the neighbourhood cats.

I have long wanted to meet a fully grown Maine Coon cat and when we heard that my in-laws’ neighbors had one, I couldn’t wait for the chance to become acquainted. Unfortunately, their boy was skittish and we have only seen his tail end zooming away from us over the past two years. I was beginning to think he might just be a figment of my imagination. I have a sneaky suspicion that Baby Cat’s presence was keeping him away.

Usually when we arrive at my in-laws, Baby Cat does a lap around, does a few meows to let his holiday neighbors know he has arrived, and then parks himself in the sunniest spot in the house. This time, though, he went straight for the sunshine. So, Tommy, the neighborhood Maine Coon, came by.

What is a Maine Coon?

For those of you not already acquainted, Maine Coons are one of the most beloved and recognizable cat breeds in the world. Known for their large size, luxurious fur, and friendly personality, these cats are often referred to as “gentle giants.” Originating in the United States, specifically in the state of Maine (are you surprised?), they are believed to be one of the oldest natural breeds in North America. Their distinctive features include tufted ears, bushy tails, and a thick, water-repellent coat designed to withstand harsh, cold climates.

Maine Coons are generally quite sociable in nature and have high intelligence, making them excellent companions. They are playful, affectionate, and tend to get along well with children and other pets, including dogs. Unlike some cat breeds, Maine Coons are generally quite vocal and have a unique chirping or trilling sound that adds to their charm.

Their size is impressive, with some males weighing up to 25 pounds! Despite their stature, they are known for their gentle disposition and loving nature. Maine Coons are also relatively easy to care for, with regular grooming to manage their long coats being the main requirement. Overall, they make wonderful pets for families and individuals who appreciate their unique blend of size, beauty, and character.

Little Tommy the Maine Coon

Now that you know a bit about the breed, I’ll introduce you to Tommy. He is just over two years of age and I think he is full grown. He’s a large cat, but definitely not even close to 25 pounds, maybe 10 at best. He looks larger than he feels due to all the fluff, but that doesn’t make him any less adorable.

Tommy takes awhile to warm up to strangers, even to his mum. He prefers to be outdoors and on his own. Enter the Fancy Feast Puree Kiss treat.

Like a moth to a flame.

We quickly became friends, he even let our toddler pet him.

At one point my mother-in-law said “don’t let him inside!” and my husband and I scoffed, how dare she think we would let him in (total sarcasm, we’re absolutely the people who would bring in a cat). But, we wouldn’t, of course, Baby Cat is our only feline family member and that’s the way he likes it.

What Would Baby Cat Think If He Knew?

Baby Cat in his prime would never let Tommy near us. But our retired, relaxed, holiday Baby, is a different story. He didn’t seem to care—he may not have even known Tommy was around at all, but I imagine his smell was all over us, so Baby either didn’t know, or didn’t care.

It makes me a bit sad to think that his sense of smell is going, and that he has such little energy these days to scare another cat away, but it also gives me peace knowing he’s not stressing out about little things (or anything, really) and can enjoy his days in the warm sunshine.