Calico vs Maine Coon
Discover the differences between Calico and Maine Coon to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Calico
Adored for their striking tri-color coats and playful, affectionate personalities, Calicos make lively companions. These charming cats bring warmth and color to any home.
Maine Coon
A gentle giant with a luxurious coat and playful spirit, Maine Coons thrive as affectionate companions. Their intelligence and adaptability make them ideal for families and multi-pet households.
Quick comparison
Medium
3.5–5.5 kg
Shorthaired, soft
12–16 years
3–5 kg
Moderately active
Large
6–8.5 kg
Longhaired, shaggy
12–15 years
4.5–6.5 kg
Moderately active
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Calico
Usually affectionate with familiar people and pets
Learns routines and household patterns fairly well
Moderate activity, enjoys play in short bursts
Likes interactive games and chasing toys often
Adjusts reasonably to new settings or changes
Maine Coon
Affectionate and sociable with family and strangers
Learns quickly and solves problems with ease
Moderate activity needs, not overly energetic
Enjoys games and interactive toys regularly
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Calico
Obesity, dental disease
Maine Coon
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Calico
Good option
Calicos are generally adaptable but may need patient socialization for new owners.
Very suitable
Most calicos are content in smaller spaces with proper enrichment and toys.
Moderately suitable
Calicos can match active households but may prefer calm spaces to retreat.
Cautiously recommended
Calicos can be tolerant if socialized early, but some dislike rough handling.
Mixed results
Some calicos are territorial and may need slow introductions to other pets.
Not ideal
Calicos enjoy companionship and may show stress if left alone for long periods.
Maine Coon
Great choice
Friendly and adaptable, Maine Coons are easy for beginners to handle and enjoy.
Good fit
They adjust well to apartment life if given enough space and stimulation.
Highly suitable
Their playful and energetic nature matches active family lifestyles.
Perfect fit
Gentle and patient, they interact well with young children.
Very friendly
Usually sociable, they often get along with other pets in the home.
Not ideal
Maine Coons need companionship and may become lonely if left alone frequently.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Calico
- Distinctive and attractive multicolored coat
- Typically affectionate with known family members
- Often playful and interactive with toys
- Generally low grooming needs due to short coat
- Adaptable to indoor living environments
Maine Coon
- Affectionate with family members
- Generally tolerant with children
- Adaptable to various household environments
- Playful yet gentle temperament
- Good with other pets when socialized
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Calico
- Temperament can be unpredictable or moody
- May show territorial behavior with other pets
- Can be prone to selective eating habits
- Some individuals may resist frequent handling
- Rare males often have health complications
Maine Coon
- Requires frequent grooming due to long coat
- Prone to dental and gum issues
- Needs ample space for exercise
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy heart disease
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