Personality
The Maine Coon is known in the cat fancy as a "gentle giant", much like the Great Dane is known in the dog fancy by that same nickname. This is an extroverted, outgoing, sociable breed, with a loving nature, a kind disposition and a keen intellect. Most Maine Coons are highly trainable and can easily be taught to walk on a harness and leash. They are affectionate, playful animals that typically get along extremely well with children, other cats and even dogs.
Activity Level
Maine Coons want to be near their people not only for companionship, but also so that they can actively participate in whatever household activities are under way. Maine Coons have been described as dogs in cats clothing. Given the breed’s working origins, they do love to explore and tend to be more adventurous than other longhaired domestic breeds. They probably are best suited to rural environments, as they especially thrive in blended indoor-and-outdoor living situations and do not take well to prolonged periods of confinement.
Behavioral Traits
Maine Coons are excellent hunters. They probably accompanied sailors on shipping vessels to keep them free from mice, rats and other rodents, before the days of rodenticides made this largely unnecessary. This may account for their particular habit of curling up in tight places or odd positions that might appear uncomfortable but apparently keep them safe, secure and out from underfoot. Maine Coons seem to grab the opportunity to catch a cat nap whenever and wherever they can. Maine Coons are also known to use their front paws to pick up food, sticks or other interesting objects and can sit for hours watching and playing with drips of water coming from the tap. They are exceptional climbers, as well.