American Longhair

The American Longhair or more common name, Maine Coon, is a breed of cat that first appeared on the coast of New England. The cat originally resulted from a cross between Persian long haired cats and American short haired cats. In the early stages there was some resistance from Persian breeders, but the American Longhair is now accepted in some registries and is quickly becoming more popular in Europe and North America. Because the shorthaired trait is recessive, the American Longhair still produces shorthaired variants. The coat, the flattened face, and the generally square, lean build have led to American Longhairs being called Domestic Longhairs. The main coon is one of the largest breeds of cat and can grow to 18 lbs.
Health Problems
The shortened face means the American Longhair can suffer the same breathing problems as their longhaired cousins, and polycystic kidney disease also present in the breed. Tear-duct conditions are common too, caused by the lubricating tears failing to drain down the nasolacrimal duct into the nose and then overflowing down the face. When exposed to air, clear colorless tears stain a deep mahogany color. This is more aesthetic than a medical problem.
Grooming
The breed's soft, plush coat is thinner and somewhat shorter than many longhair coats, and it benefits from a little additional grooming to keep it looking its best.