Maine character

Maine Coons are one of the oldest native cat breeds in the U.S., originating in New England. They are nicknamed "gentle giants" due to their impressive size and sweet, laid-back personalities. Unlike most felines, they are known for their love of water and can even be taught to play fetch, earning them the title of "the dogs of the cat world." They are well-adapted for cold climates, boasting a shaggy, water-resistant coat and large, tufted paws that act like snowshoes. Maine Coons don't fully mature until they are three to five years old, much later than other cat breeds. Instead of meowing, they often communicate with a unique chirping or trilling sound. The longest domestic cat on record was a Maine Coon named Stewie, who measured over four feet long. They were designated the official state cat of Maine in 1985.