My current one, a tortie I named Tango, was a feral kitten. She is 17 now.

Sure, rescues don't have papers, but they are no less beautiful for it.

I just want a cat that is, large, fluffy and cuddly. I have always admired the coon cat. I am now at an age and position where I can get what I want and I don't have to ask for permission to do it.

I believe it is necessary to identify what makes you happy and do it! Never wait for someone to provide your happiness.

Thanks

You might consider a “Wiggie” as they are affectionately called by their owners.

Our Cooper is a big boy..not fat just big, weighs in at 18lbs and has as big a personality to match. Talks ALL the time about everything. They are very funny, quirky and affectionate, big double thick coat and huge tails. He’s quite the outdoorsman, loves his walks..on a leash of course

…Petco. You can specify what breed you are looking for, and how near/far you are willing to travel.

Good luck! Post a picture when you find your new friend.

the pluses and minuses of having a Maine coon.

Plus side: They are playful, smart, very loyal, and good with kids.

Minus: They need lots of space due to their size. Also exercise due to their size. If they don't get enough attention, they get into mischief. They require daily brushing to prevent their fur from getting matted up. If it gets matted, it can be painful for them.

I am guessing that, with that much long fur and undercoat, they might be prone to hairballs from grooming themselves. So it might be good to have kitty grass for them to nibble on and a tube of flavored gel that helps prevent or get rid of hairballs.

But I think it would be worth the care and attention because they are so magnificent looking and have such a good disposition. Never had one myself, but I have always admired them.

Many of them have the type of fur that mats up very easily no matter what you do. Also you have the risk of...no polite way to say this..."stuck poop" issues with the long hair. I adored my MC Ricky and he was a wonderful sweet natured lap cat and I have vivid memories of DH and myself holding him in the sink while I wash the poop off his tail and butt. As beautiful and nice as they are we will not have any more long-haired cats.

He was the smartest cat I ever had. Don't overlook Coon mixes. They are probably easier to find.

We are very heart broken over our beautiful cat who only meowed once his life was ending.
He used to put his paw on my shoulder to let me know he was going to jump in my lap.

But some breeders are scammers. Poor English= stay away.

who had one and she lived to be 16 years old I believe.

She thinks she is the queen of the world. Very vocal. Did I mention very vocal?

They are out there, keep an eye open at multiple shelters.

genetic Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Good breeders will have tested the parents.

It is estimated that about 30% of the Maine Coon population has the mutation for HCM.

https://icatcare.org/advice/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy-hcm-and-testing/

the animal lovers here on DU. Fingers crossed!

As you can see in the pic, she's been "tipped" (left ear) which tells vets and other animal rescue folks that she's been spayed and has all of her shots.