Are Maine Coon Cats Protective?

We have all seen the “beware of dog” signs in bright orange letters. It’s a fair warning that man’s best friend is ready to thwart intruders from its property. But what about man’s other best friend? Maine coons are called the dogs of the cat world. It’s mostly because of their size and affectionate personalities. But can it also relate to their loyalty and ferocity? They just might need a “beware of cat” sign after all.

Are Maine coon cats protective? Maine coon cats can be quite protective of their favorite humans. They are a very intelligent breed of cat. Their brains combined with their natural survival instincts can kick in when they feel their owner is in danger.

Before you start commanding your Maine coon to “sic’em” continue reading to understand these protective behaviors in depth.

Why are Maine coons protective?

There is no clear answer as to why Maine coons have the ability to be protective animals. There are a few factors that can influence the decisions your cat makes when they believe you are threatened.

• They are smart. As previously mentioned, Maine coons are an intelligent breed. Your cat recognizes who brings the food, who cleans the litter box, and who changes the water. It’s all thanks to the best human in the world- you! Your Maine coon probably won’t want to give up its life of luxury. If you aren’t around to make sure everything is in order, then who will? Cats probably don’t use this chain of thought but they know who keeps things in working order and will do whatever they have to do to make sure the routine is not disturbed.
• They are territorial. Not much is cuter than a Maine coon rubbing its head against your leg. The reason behind this is related to why your cat is protective. Cats have an excellent sense of smell and rely on it to tell them information about their surroundings, humans and other cats included. When a Maine coon rubs against you, it deposits a scent that associates you with other familiar objects. You essentially become part of your cat’s territory. If your Maine coon feels part of its territory is invaded, it will get upset and defend what is theirs.
• They love you. Think of what a lioness would do to defend her sweet cubs. Similarly, a Maine coon would defend you no matter what. You are one of their own, and you provide for them, but did you know that most cats try to provide for their owners as well? This is why sometimes a Maine coon will bring you a mouse or a bird from the outside, or maybe a bug now and then if inside. They think you have terrible survival skills. They also want to provide for you because they care about you.

Signs your Maine coon is protective

If you want to know if your Maine coon is protective of you, keep an eye out for some of the signs listed below.

• Your Maine coon meows at you. Cats use unique sounds to communicate with their humans, and meowing is one of them. A meow can mean your Maine coon wants food or attention, but it can also be a warning. There have been stories of cats meowing at their owners to alert them of troubling situations such as carbon monoxide leaks, fires, and home invasions.
• Your Maine coon follows you around. If you think the only reason your Maine coon follows you around is to get some treats, you may be wrong. When your feline friend tags along, it is also keeping an eye on you. Additionally, your Maine coon will feel protected in your presence. It’s a win-win for both parties.
• Your Maine coon growls at strangers. Your mail carrier may often be greeted by your Maine coon’s low, threatening growl, and it’s not because your cat really hates getting bills. A Maine coon will growl at strangers because they are imposing on its home. Your cat wants to protect its safe space along with the people it loves.
• Your Maine coon gets hands on. Your cat can get physical when it comes to protecting its human. Maine coons have shown their protective instincts by scratching and biting aggressors and jumping on children who are looking to play with something dangerous. Some cats also try to “rescue” their owners from drowning in the bath or shower.
  

  Pierre´s Maine Coon, Maze

Who else will Maine coons protect?

You may not be the only one on your Maine coon’s watchlist. Your cat’s protective tendencies can extend to family members that may surprise you.

• They will protect children. There is a common misconception that cats hate children since they are known to steal attention. There is even an old superstition that cats will steal a baby’s breath because it has the alluring scent of milk. Fortunately, the opposite of this is true. Maine coons, as well as many other cat breeds, are excellent with babies and small children. There are countless videos of cats snuggling up to their human siblings, grooming them, and not letting strangers get too close.
• They will protect the elderly. With easygoing play, gentle petting sessions, and lots of opportunity for snuggles, it’s no surprise that Maine coons get along well with senior citizens. They also demonstrate protective behavior towards their elderly friends. Cats are well known for staying right by their senior companions’ side when they are not feeling well. Maine coons can sense illness and stay present to offer comfort and protection.
• They will protect other cats. When it comes down to the nature of it, cats are solitary animals. However, this does not stop them from bonding with other cats. Maine coons can form relationships with other cats. They are also known for taking in younger cats or orphaned kittens and protecting them as if they are related.
• They will protect other animals. A Maine coon’s love can know no bounds. Surprisingly, these cats will even protect animals of other species. They have been known to form bonds with dogs, pigs, squirrels, sheep, lizards, and even birds! Some cats have even taken in other animals as if they are its young and help to not only protect but raise them.

Related Questions

What is the personality of a Maine Coon cat? Maine coons are known as the dogs of the cat world. They are friendly animals that enjoy human affection without being too demanding. Unlike other cat breeds, Maine coons are accepting of new people, not only bonded humans. They are also known for getting along with other pets.

Are Maine coon cats aggressive? Maine coon cats are far from aggressive. Their nickname is the gentle giants. If you are looking for a gentle natured feline companion, a Maine coon is the way to go. However, if a Maine coon exhibits signs of aggression, it is most likely related to stress or illness, not general temperament.

Can a Maine coon cat go outside? Maine coon cats can be both indoor and outdoor cats. While there are benefits to letting your cat outside, there are some risks such as getting lost, getting hurt, and picking up parasites. If you are worried about your cat’s safety, you can train your Maine coon to walk outside on a leash.