By Royal Canin Scientific Communications
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Known for its size and coat, the Maine Coon is "nature's" breed. It developed not from a planned breeding program, but through natural selection where the strongest cats survived. The traits that stood to help these cats proliferate are also the traits that are desired in the today's show ring, such as large stature, solid musculature, and dense coat.
The Maine Coon stands taller than other breeds, sometimes reaching sixteen inches in height at the shoulders. The breed also has a powerful build with males reaching 22 pounds. The size of the Maine Coon results in more pressure on the joints, so it is important to protect the cartilage. These cats can also be affected by hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis. To help protect the joints, Royal Canin Maine Coon 31 has a combination of nutrients designed to reduce inflammation. Supplemental levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega 3 fatty acids have been added to Maine Coon 31 to help slow cartilage degradation as combat inflammatory mechanisms in the joint.
In addition to its stature, the Maine Coon is identified by its beautiful coat. The fur is dense and can vary in length between 3 and 6 inches. To insure healthy skin and coat, Maine Coon 31 contains our exclusive Beauty & Shine complex. This combination of nutrients includes omega fatty acids, zinc, and biotin, which improve the overall health of hair and skin. In addition, this formula contains a blend of nutrients that optimizes the skin's barrier function. Finally, our Natural Color Force complex augments the pigmentation of the hair resulting in a more intense color pattern.
With its large, powerful jaws, the Maine Coon has a very unique style of eating when compared to domestic shorthair cats. Ingestion speed is higher in this breed, and the meal size is also larger. The cat eats more food at a faster rate, and chews less. The result is increased risk for dental disease including tartar, plaque, and gingivitis. To encourage chewing and improve oral health, Maine Coon 31 features the "King Size Kibble." This specially designed kibble was chosen after evaluating 10 different sizes and shapes. The kibble we found most beneficial requires the cat to slow down ingestion and chew more fully. The chewing action exerts a mechanical "brush-ing" effect on the teeth as well. Maine Coon 31 contains sodium tripolyphosphate which binds up calcium in the mouth, preventing it from being incorporated into tartar formation.
As one of the most popular pure bred cats, Maine Coons enjoy both the show ring and the home. Their unique appearance and wonderful nature have made them desirable by breeders and pet owners alike. Some of the characteristics of the breed that make these cats so popular can be augmented through nutrition. Royal Canin Maine Coon 31 is formulated to bring out the highlights of nature's design.