Orange Maine Coon: Appearance, Characteristics & Price
Orange Maine Coon cats are a relatively new color mutation of the already popular Maine Coon breed. These large, lovable cats come in a wide range of colors and patterns, but the orange variation is definitely one of the most eye-catching.
Some people believe that Orange Maine Coon cats are a cross between a Maine Coon and an orange tabby, but this is not the case. The orange coloration is actually caused by a genetic mutation that can occur in any Maine Coon cat, regardless of parentage.
Whether you’re looking for a cuddly companion or a playful friend, an Orange Maine Coon cat is sure to make a great addition to your family. Learn more about this unique breed below.
How to Determine if a Cat is an Orange Maine Coon?
The Orange Maine Coon Cat is one of the most popular color variations of this iconic American cat breed. While all Maine Coon Cats are large and lovable, the Orange Maine Coon Cat is prized for its vibrant coat color. So, how is this beautiful cat color determined?
Simply put, the Orange Maine Coon Cat gets its orange coat from a gene that produces the pigment pheomelanin. This gene is responsible for producing both red and yellow pigments, so it’s not surprising that the Orange Maine Coon Cat’s coat can range from a light cream to a deep reddish-orange.
Interestingly, the intensity of the orange color is often determined by how much black pigment is present in the coat.
For example, an Orange Maine Coon Cat with very little black pigment may have a lighter, more lemon-hued coat, while an Orange Maine Coon Cat with a high concentration of black pigment will have a richer, more reddish-orange coat.
No matter what shade of orange your Maine Coon Cat’s coat is, there’s no doubt that this cat is a real beauty!
The Orange Maine Coon Cat: Color Guide
The orange Maine Coon is truly a stunning cat. Unfortunately, not much is known about this beautiful color variation.
Based on the limited information available, it appears that the recessive gene responsible for the orange Maine Coon must be present in both parents in order to produce this color in their offspring.
Some believe that the orange Maine Coon is a cross between a Siamese and a tabby, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Regardless of their origin, orange Maine Coons are simply gorgeous cats that are sure to turn heads wherever they go.
Thanks to their striking coats, these cats are often mistaken for tigers or lions; however, they are actually very gentle and loving creatures that make wonderful companions.
According to CFA, there are several color classes of Red Maine Coon including:
Solid Red: Yes, you read that correctly. A Maine Coon can be a single, solid color from nose to tail. These cats are quite rare and highly prized by cat fanciers.
Red Lynx (Tabby) Point: The Red Lynx Point is a Maine Coon with tabby markings on a creamy white background. The lynx points can be any shade of red, from orange to marmalade to chocolate.
Red Silver Tabby: The Red Silver Tabby Maine Coon is similar to the Red Tabby, but with silver-tipped fur that gives them a shimmery, almost metallic appearance.
Other Color Patterns That Include Orange
As we mentioned, the Orange Maine Coon is just one of the many color variations of this iconic American breed. If you’re looking for a Maine Coon with an orange coat, you may also want to consider some of the other color patterns that include this vibrant hue.
Here are a few examples:
Red Tabby (aka Marbled Tabby)
The Red Tabby is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that features distinctive dark brown or black tiger-like stripes. These cats are very popular and make great family pets.
According to the CFA, the Red Tabby is actually the most common color pattern for Maine Coons.
Red Mackerel Tabby (aka Striped Tabby)
I know, I know… another tabby. But trust me, the Red Mackerel Tabby is worth mentioning! This Maine Coon has an orange coat with dark brown or black stripes that run vertically down their sides (hence the name “mackerel”).
This is one of the most distinctive and easily recognizable Maine Coon patterns and is sure to turn heads wherever your cat goes.
Orange Tabby (aka Classic Tabby)
The Orange Tabby is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that features the classic “ bulls-eye” pattern on their sides. These cats are very striking and make great companions.
While the Orange Tabby is not as common as the Red Tabby, they are still a fairly popular color pattern.
Brown Patch Tabby (aka Tortoiseshell Tabby)
The Brown Patch Tabby is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that features dark brown or black patches on their sides. These cats are very unique and make great family pets.
While the Brown Patch Tabby is not as common as some of the other color patterns, they are still a fairly popular color pattern.
Silver Tabby (aka Blue Tabby)
The Silver Tabby is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that features dark gray or blue stripes. These cats are very distinctive and make great companions.
From my experience, the Silver Tabby is one of the less common Maine Coon color patterns; however, they are still fairly popular.
Shaded Cameo – Red Shaded and Smoke Color Class
As far as I can tell, the Shaded Cameo is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that gradually fades to white on their stomachs and chest. Compared to some of the other color patterns, the Shaded Cameo is quite rare.
I should also mention that the CFA has two different color classes for the Shaded Cameo: Red Shaded and Smoke.
The Red Shaded Maine Coon is a bit more common than the Smoke; however, both are quite rare.
Shaded Cameo – Red Shaded and White Color Class
The Shaded Cameo is a beautiful and unique color class of the Orange Maine Coon Cat. As the name suggests, these cats have a coat that is shaded with red and white.
The amount of red and white on the coat can vary from cat to cat, but all Shaded Cameos have a distinctively elegant appearance. These cats are also known for their outgoing personalities and their love of play.
Shaded Tortoiseshell – Shaded and Smoke Color Class
The Shaded Tortoiseshell is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that gradually fades to black on their stomachs and chest. Compared to some of the other color patterns, the Shaded Tortoiseshell is quite rare.
These cats are very passionate, loving, and loyal companions. Unfortunately, they are also very misunderstood. Some people think that because they are so passionate, they are prone to aggression.
This couldn’t be further from the truth! In reality, Shaded Tortoiseshells are some of the most gentle and loving cats you will ever meet.
Shaded Calico Color Class
The Shaded Calico color class for Maine Coon cats includes those with an orange base coat and patches of black and white. Some have more black than white (referred to as “shaded”), while others have more white (referred to as “shell”).
The degree of shading can vary from cat to cat, but all shaded calicos have a pretty orange ground color. Some also have orange tabby markings on their faces, legs, and tails. As with all tri-colored cats, the pattern of shaded calico cats is controlled by a specific gene (or group of genes).
The combination of genes that produces a shaded calico has only recently been identified. So, although this color pattern has been around for a long time, we are just now beginning to understand how it is produced.
Tuxedo Color Class
The Tuxedo is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that is mostly black except for white on their chest and stomach. These cats are very distinctive and make great companions.
The Tuxedo is one of the more common Maine Coon color patterns; however, they are still quite rare.
Parti-Color Color Class
The Parti-Color is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that is black except for white on their chest and stomach. These cats are very distinctive and make great family pets.
The Parti-Color is one of the more common Maine Coon color patterns; however, they are still quite rare.
Paint Color Class
The Paint is a Maine Coon with an orange coat that is white except for black on their chest and stomach. These cats are very distinctive and make great companions.
The Paint is one of the more common Maine Coon color patterns; however, they are still quite rare.
Color Point Color Class
The Color Point is a Maine Coon with an orange coat and black points (ears, face, legs, and tail). These cats are very distinctive and make great family pets.
The Color Point is one of the more common Maine Coon color patterns; however, they are still quite rare.
Are Orange Maine Coons Rare?
It isn’t exactly clear how many Maine Coons are out there, but the vast majority of them appear to be brown or brown with white. This leaves a lot of people wondering if orange Maine Coons are rare.
The simple answer is yes; orange Maine Coons are relatively rare cat when compared to their more common brown counterparts. But why is this? Most experts believe that the gene responsible for the orange coloring is recessive, which means that both parents must carry it in order for their kittens to be born with the same trait.
So, while orange Maine Coons may be less common than other colors, they aren’t necessarily any harder to find if you know where to look. And, as an added bonus, they tend to be just as friendly and loving as their more common cousins.
Where to Look for Orange Maine Coon Kittens?
If you’re interested in adding an Orange Maine Coon kitten to your family, you’ll need to do some homework. These stunning creatures are in high demand and can be difficult to find.
Here I’ll share a few tips on where to look for orange Maine Coon kittens:
1. Reputable Breeders
The best place to start your search is with a reputable breeder. Ask around at your local cat shows or do some research online. Be sure to visit the kitten in person and ask lots of questions before you make a commitment.
If you’re having trouble finding a breeder in your area, you can also check out the Maine Coon Breeders Association website. This organization keeps a list of reputable breeders from all over the world.
2. Rescue Groups
Another great option is to contact a rescue group that specializes in Maine Coons. These groups often have orange kittens available for adoption.
Maine Coon Rescue is a great place to start your search. This organization has rescue groups all over the United States and Canada.
3. Shelters
If you’re willing to adopt an adult Maine Coon, you can also check your local shelters and rescues. While it’s harder to find orange Maine Coons at these places, it’s not impossible.
The ASPCA website is a great resource for finding adoptable animals in your area. Just be sure to specify that you’re looking for an orange Maine Coon.
4. Online Classifieds
Another option is to check online classifieds websites like Craigslist and Kijiji. These websites occasionally have orange Maine Coons available for adoption.
Just be sure to exercise caution when using these sites. There are many scams out there, so it’s important to be careful. Only adopt an animal from someone you’ve met in person and trust.
5. Social Media
If you’re still having trouble finding an orange Maine Coon, you can also try searching social media websites like Facebook and Twitter. You may be able to find a breeder or rescue group that has kittens available.
You can also search hashtags like #orangemainecoonkittens or #mainecoonkittensforsale.
Orange Maine Coon Cat Price
The Orange Maine Coon Cat is a popular color variant of the Maine Coon Cat.
While the price of an Orange Maine Coon Cat varies depending on factors such as breeder reputation, show potential, and whether the kitten is pet quality or breeding stock, you can expect to pay between $400 and $1,500 for one of these cats.
Be very careful when purchasing an Orange Maine Coon Cat online or from a classified ad, as there are many scams associated with this popular breed. only purchase your Orange Maine Coon Cat from a reputable breeder or business.
Ask to see health clearances for the parents and visit the kittens in person before making a commitment. With proper care, your Orange Maine Coon Cat will bring you years of enjoyment.
Characteristics of the Orange Maine Coon Cat
The orange Maine Coon is one of the most popular color variations of this already popular cat breed. But what exactly defines an orange Maine Coon?
Read on to learn more about this feline’s coat color, eye color, and other physical characteristics.
Superb Hunters: Maine Coon cats were once the go-to choice for farmers looking to rid their property of pesky rodents. These kitties are now cherished members of the family, and their large size, lovable personality, and beautiful coat make them one of the most popular cat breeds in the world.
Big and Beautiful: One of the most distinguishing features of the Maine Coon is its large size. Males can weigh up to 18 pounds, while females typically max out at around 12 pounds. In terms of length, these cats can reach up to four feet from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail.
Although they are large cats, Maine Coons are very muscular and agile. They are excellent jumpers and climbers, and their thick tails help them balance when they are in high places.
Furry Friends: Maine Coons have a thick, luxurious coat that helps protect them from the cold weather. Their fur is longer on their belly and back legs, and they have a thick ruff around their neck. The Maine Coon’s coat is water-resistant, and it does not mat easily.
These cats come in a variety of colors and patterns, including orange. Orange Maine Coons usually have white paws and chests, and some may have stripes or other markings on their fur.
Sweet Disposition: In addition to their impressive hunting skills and beautiful coat, Maine Coons are also known for their sweet disposition. These cats are gentle giants, and they love to cuddle and play. They are also very loyal to their families and make great companion animals.
Intelligent and Playful: Maine Coons are very intelligent cats, and they love to play games. They are quick learners, and many of them enjoy learning tricks. These cats also like to bat around small toys and chase after wand toys.
Good with Children and Other Pets: Maine Coons are good with children and other pets, although they may be too large and energetic for very young kids. These cats do best in homes where they can have plenty of space to run and play.
Orange Maine Coon Appearance
The Orange Maine Coon is one of the most popular color variations of this already popular breed. While all Maine Coons share certain physical traits, the Orange Maine Coon is particularly striking with its vibrant coat.
Just like other Maine Coons, Orange Maine Coons are large cats, with males typically weighing in at 15 to 25 pounds and females weighing 10 to 15 pounds. Their long, thick coats are well suited to cold weather and their bushy tails help them balance when they are climbing.
The coats of Orange Maine Coons can range in color from a light apricot to a deep rusty red. They often have darker markings on their faces, tails, and legs.
As is the case with all colors of Maine Coon, the Orange Maine Coon is a friendly, outgoing cat that bonds deeply with its human family. If you are looking for a big beautiful cat with an orange coat, the Orange Maine Coon is the perfect choice!
If you’re considering about Orange Maine Coon as your next pet, read on to learn everything you need to about their appearance, personality, and care needs.
Personality: Sweet-tempered, gentle giants
Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. They weigh between 9 and 18 pounds for males and 7 and 12 pounds for females. The average length of a full-grown Maine Coon is 40 inches long, including their tail. But don’t let their size intimidate you – these cats are among the sweetest, most gentle giants you’ll ever meet.
Maine Coons love being around people and are known for their outgoing, social personalities. They are intelligent cats who enjoy learning tricks and playing games. They are also very good with children and other pets, making them ideal family companions.
If you’re looking for a big, friendly cat with a personality to match, the Maine Coon is the perfect choice!
Care Needs: Can live indoors or outdoors
Maine Coons are relatively low-maintenance cats when it comes to grooming. Their long coats do require some brushing, but they are less prone to matting than other long-haired breeds. It’s also important to regularly check their nails and ears and to keep their litter box clean.
These cats are known for being relatively healthy, although they can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and polycystic kidney disease.
Maine Coons are also known for being high-energy cats. They need plenty of space to run and play, and they love to climb and explore. A Maine Coon who doesn’t have enough to do can become bored and destructive.
The best way to keep your Maine Coon happy and healthy is to provide them with plenty of exercise, a healthy diet, and regular vet care.
Lifespan of Orange Maine Coons
The average lifespan of an Orange Maine Coon is between 10 and 15 years. Some have been known to live into their 20s, however.
The key to a long and healthy life for any cat, including the Orange Maine Coon, is regular checkups and preventive care at the veterinarian, good nutrition, and plenty of exercise.
Cats that don’t receive regular veterinary care are three times more likely to die before they reach age 10 than those that do. So, if you want your Orange Maine Coon to have a chance at a long life, make sure he or she sees the veterinarian regularly.
In addition to regular checkups, preventive care might include vaccinations, routine testing (e.g., for feline leukemia virus and heartworm disease), parasite control, and weight management. Good nutrition is also important for cats of all ages.
Kittens, for example, need a diet that supports proper growth and development. Adult cats need a diet that helps them maintain a healthy weight and provides all the nutrients they need for optimal health.
Exercise is also necessary for all cats, even indoor-only cats. Regular play sessions will help keep your cat’s muscles toned and his or her joints healthy. And, of course, if you have an overweight cat, encouraging him or her to be more active can have profound health benefits.
Ask your veterinarian for specific recommendations on how often you should take your Orange Maine Coon to the vet, what preventive care he or she needs, and how much exercise is appropriate given your cat’s age and overall health status.
Name Ideas of Orange Maine Coons
If you’re looking for the perfect name for your new orange Maine Coon, look no further! Here are some of our favorite monikers for this vibrant feline breed.
Flame: This is a popular name for orange cats, and it’s easy to see why! With their bright coats, Maine Coons definitely resemble flames.
Coral: Like flames, coral is a warm, orange color. We like this name because it’s both unique and beautiful.
Sunshine: This name is perfect for a cat who brings happiness and light into your life.
Apricot: This fruit-inspired name is both sweet and cheerful. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a less common option.
Tangerine: If you’re looking for a citrus-inspired name, tangerine is a great choice. It’s also one of the most popular names for orange cats.
Rusty: This name is perfect for an orange Maine Coon with marbled fur. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a short and sweet moniker.
Habanero: This spicy name is perfect for a feisty orange cat. It’s sure to get your feline friend lots of attention at the vet!
Saffron: Saffron is a warm, golden color that’s similar to orange. If you’re looking for a name that embodies the essence of this vibrant hue, look no further.
The Bottom Line
Maine coon cats are one of the most popular breeds of domestic cat, and it’s no wonder why. These gorgeous animals are known for their large size, their beautiful fur, and their outgoing personalities. But what about their orange coloring? Is there anything special about that?
Orange Maine coons are actually quite rare. Most Maine coons are either black or brown, with only a small percentage being orange. So if you’re looking for a truly unique cat, an orange Maine coon is definitely worth considering.
There’s no real difference between an orange Maine coon and any other color of Maine coon when it comes to personality or health. They’re all just as loving and healthy as each other. However, because they’re so rare, orange Maine coons can be quite expensive.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you might want to consider a different color. But if you’re set on owning an orange Maine coon, be prepared to pay a bit more than you would for a typical domestic cat.
