Lion and Tiger Maine Coons

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Here are two Maine Coons who resemble the lion (on the left) and the tiger. There is a distinct resemblance don't you think?

Lion and Tiger Maine Coons
Lion and Tiger Maine Coons. Image by MikeB.

So, what is it about these two magnificent domestic cats that lead me to seeing this resemblance?

Lion

The Maine Coon ruff here is huge and although not in the same position as the lion's mane (!) it hints at it. And the reposed, relaxed state and confident facial expression also hint at the lion. Always the heavy muzzle of the Maine Coon allows the breed to be likened to these two big cats. The big cats have large muzzles too.

The big error is that the ears of both the lion and tiger are - proportionate to their head size - considerably smaller than those of the Maine Coon. This is partly because the Maine Coon is meant to have big ears. They are unnaturally large and tall as per the breed standard.

Here is a lion in repose:

Picture is in the public domain to the best of my knowledge.

Tiger

Well, the heavy face including the muzzle is the same but the tabby markings hint at the tiger. It is the tabby stripes which lends this MC to look a bit like a tiger. And both these domestic cats rest in a position which is reminiscent of the big cats after they've had a good meal. There is a confident look which is probably one reason why they are so popular.

It is unusual for the relatively delicate (compared to big cats) domestic cat to even hint at these two big cats. The domestic cat bone structure is normally so much more delicate. It is why domestic cats tip toe when they walk compared to the big cat swagger.

Maine Coons with a "delicate bone structure" are disqualified in competition but what does it mean?

Which brings me nicely to the Maine Coon breed standard again. This breed is meant to look rugged and definitely not delicate. It is meant to be hardy and substantial to reflect their barn cat early years before they become a fancy purebred show cat.

Here is a tiger for comparison.

Picture in public domain.

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