About Happy Heart
Happy Heart is a small, TICA and LCWW registered Cattery specializing in silver and shaded European line Maine Coon cats. We are located in northeast Texas. Ours is a family run, in-home cattery lead by a physician with supporting members that are cat enthusiasts and another physician Our primary goal is to breed healthy Maine Coons with fantastic dispositions that conform to the breed standard.
I bought my first Maine coon in December 2019 as a Christmas present for my daughter. Within a week, we had a second cat. Approximately 2-3 months later I asked my husband if I could breed “just one litter.” That was 4 years ago and, as of Feb 2024, I have a cattery with 2 breeding studs, 5 Queens and Queens-to-be, and have had 7 litters.
My passion is for shaded and shell tabbies. My goal in breeding is to improve the structure and size of these Maine coons while maintaining excellent health and temperament. I have a husband and two children; everyone contributes for the cattery to function smoothly.
Being headed by a physician allows our Cattery to stand above others in the understanding of diseases, genetics, and appropriate development. We understand the need to continually learn and grow to breed better, more genetically sound, healthy cats.
All of our Kings and Queens are genetically tested for dozens of gene mutations common to the Maine Coon, including HCM, PKDef, SMA, and PKD. Additionally they are screened for cardiac abnormalities, all of which is performed prior to breeding.
Happy Heart is dedicated to providing support, education, and advice for the life of your pet.
In addition to the cattery, we live on a small hobby farm. We have goats, chickens, and even a longhorn! We enjoy growing and eating homegrown food as well. Between the cattery, the kids, the farm, and my husband and I working as full-time physicians, we manage to stay very busy! Our family mantra is how we make it all happen: What’s gonna work? TEAMWORK!
Our goals are…
Healthy
Cats and Kittens
Better
The Maine Coon Breed
Support
And Educate Our Buyers For Life
About Maine Coons
Majestic Felines with a Rich History and Endearing Qualities
Introduction:
Maine Coon cats are captivating creatures that have captured the hearts of many cat enthusiasts worldwide. Known for their impressive size, fascinating history, exceptional intelligence, and gentle nature, these remarkable felines make for extraordinary companions. In this article, we will explore the characteristics that set Maine Coon cats apart, including their size, historical background, intelligence, and why they are considered excellent pets.
Size:
One of the most distinguishing features of Maine Coon cats is their remarkable size. They are often referred to as the “gentle giants” of the feline world. Males can weigh between 13 to 18 pounds, while females typically range from 8 to 12 pounds. However, it’s not just their weight that impresses; their overall size is awe-inspiring. Maine Coons can reach lengths of up to 40 inches, with their tails alone measuring up to 16 inches long. Their robust build, large bone structure, and tufted ears contribute to their majestic appearance.
History:
Maine Coon cats have a fascinating and mythical origin story. Though their precise origins remain a subject of debate, one popular theory suggests that they are descendants of long-haired cats brought to North America by Vikings around 1,000 years ago. Another theory suggests that they are the result of crossbreeding between domestic cats and raccoons, although this is scientifically implausible. Regardless of their exact lineage, Maine Coon cats are believed to have developed their unique characteristics to adapt to the harsh New England climate.
Intelligence:
Maine Coon cats are not only known for their size and striking appearance but also for their exceptional intelligence. They are considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds. Their keen intellect enables them to quickly learn and adapt to various situations. Maine Coons are known to be curious and have a penchant for problem-solving. They enjoy interactive toys, puzzle games, and learning new tricks, making them a joy to train and engage with. Their intelligence also contributes to their ability to bond closely with their human companions.
Why They Make Great Pets:
Maine Coon cats possess numerous qualities that make them excellent pets:
Gentle and Affectionate Nature: Despite their impressive size, Maine Coons are renowned for their gentle and friendly demeanor. They are known to be incredibly affectionate, forming deep bonds with their human families. They often enjoy being petted, cuddling, and even following their owners around the house. Their nurturing and loving nature make them ideal companions, especially for families and individuals seeking a loyal and affectionate feline friend.
Social and Good with Other Pets: Maine Coons are highly sociable cats. They tend to get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats. Their friendly nature and adaptability enable them to integrate easily into multi-pet households. Maine Coons also have a reputation for being excellent with children, displaying a patient and tolerant attitude.
Playful and Energetic: Despite their regal appearance, Maine Coons retain their playful and energetic nature well into adulthood. They enjoy interactive play sessions and thrive in an environment that provides ample opportunities for physical and mental stimulation. Engaging them in play helps maintain their overall well-being and strengthens the bond between pet and owner.
Low Maintenance Grooming: Despite their long, flowing coats, Maine Coons have relatively low grooming requirements.
Their fur is water-resistant and requires minimal brushing to prevent matting. Regular grooming sessions also provide an excellent opportunity for owners to bond with their cats and keep an eye out for any potential health issues.
Maine Coon cats are truly remarkable companions. Their impressive size, captivating history, exceptional intelligence, and gentle nature make them a popular choice for pet lovers. Whether you are attracted to their majestic appearance or their friendly and affectionate personality, Maine Coons offer a unique and rewarding pet ownership experience.