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The Maine Coon cat is known for its large distinctive furry ears and thick coats, but it also has another distinctive feature: chirping vocalizations. Sometimes, these “gentle giants” make these chirps so often that owners wonder if they’ll ever hear a regular old “purr,” or if their feline is even capable of purring at all.
Maine Coon cats are just as capable of purring as any other cat, but how often they purr will vary from cat to cat. If your Maine Coon doesn’t purr often, there’s no reason to be alarmed—it is an individual difference, not a medical concern. Read on to learn more about Maine Coon sounds, their personalities, as well as the various reasons why these cats purr.
What Does Purring Mean in Maine Coon Cats?
Maine Coon cats purr for many of the same reasons that other cat breeds purr. If your cat is lying beside you purring while you pet it, it likely means that your cat is content and happy.1 Another reason your Maine Coon may purr is because it’s a soothing action and reduces stress, so you may hear your cat begin to purr after being startled.
Some studies have linked purring with the healing of tendons and bones when it occurs at certain frequencies.2 Purring may also ease breathing during painful episodes, lower pain responses, and help develop muscles in your favorite feline.
What Other Sounds Do Maine Coon Cats Make?
Maine Coons are known for making a variety of sounds that are different from the average cat purring. These large cats often follow their owners around meowing, chirping, yowling, and trilling, which is a cute combo of soft meow plus purr.
If you’re new to owning a Maine Coon, you’ll soon discover that your cat is likely to meet you at the front door to tell you all about its day. Your furry feline will likely be delighted if you talk back to it, but be prepared for a rather loud and long discourse between the two of you.
Maine Coon Personalities
Maine Coon cats have outsized personalities to go with their general chattiness when you come home after a long day. Often referred to as being “dog-like,” many Maine Coon cats bond closely with their owners and often follow them around the house. They can also be trained to do a variety of tricks and respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Some Maine Coon cats enjoy playing in the water, whether it’s just splashing as water pours from the faucet or playing with a sink full of water. It’s believed that Maine Coon cats were brought to America as vermin catchers on ships, which is where many believe the cats get their affinity for water.
Summary
Maine Coon cats are well-known for their chirps, trills, and yowling vocalizations when they converse with their owners. Some Maine Coon cats also purr often, but don’t be alarmed if your favorite feline doesn’t purr when it’s content, happy, or trying to calm down. Not all cats respond in the same way, and this extends to purring. Your cat may just choose to communicate via the vocal chirps and yowls that the breed is known for.
Featured Image Credit: N Roberts, Shutterstock
