Our 'Maine Coon' cat

We always thought that Bailey was just a lovable mutt, BUT, found out, she is a distinctive, and very special and valuable breed. She is a Maine Coon cat. No doubt about it. From her huge 'duster' tail, to her distinctive markings, her extra-soft water-proof coat, her amazing hunting instincts, NOT a 'lap-cat', to her distinctive 'chirping' sounds. With her 'Lynx-type' ears, her ability to retrieve toys, and her characteristic 'always wanting to help' you, she is definitely a Maine Coon cat. Kittens in the paper for sale today for $450. We got a bargain. Popular myth says they are descended from coons and cats mating, which is impossible, BUT, the most accepted theory is that the breed came from the six pet cats Marie Antoinette sent to Wiscasset, Maine, when she was planning to escape the French Revolution, and they mated with the local 'Norwegian Forest Cat', brought to the 'New World' by the Vikings. What a cool lineage. They are one of the few breeds to "kitten' during the winter, which is when we got her, when there were no other kittens available. She grew up on the 'mean streeets' of Cheyenne, Wyoming, during the middle of winter. Talk about tough!!! Could go on and on, but, bottom line, she is a very special kitty, and now that I know her background, I can appreciate her even more. They were prized by the early settlers as being the best 'mousers' and 'ratters' you could have. Even today, they need their 'outdoor' time. Famous for being 'clownish', we regard her as goofy-cute, which fits her perfectly. Anyway, will stop boring you with kitty stuff, but I really enjoyed finding out about my favorite kitty. She is a true, Maine Coon Cat, and is really cool....Lastly, and this describes Bailey perfectly, a Maine Coon will be your companion, your buddy, or pal, but never your baby. Preferring to sit in the chair beside you, but not your lap. That is Bailey, in a nutshell. We are lucky to have each other...