Why Your Maine Coon Loves to Watch TV (and Might Even Hog the Remote)
If you’ve ever caught your Maine Coon curled up on the couch, watching TV with intense focus, you’re not alone. These majestic, oversized fluffballs seem to have a surprising appreciation for the latest dramas, nature documentaries, and—of course—anything with fast-moving images! While it might seem like just a cute quirk, your Maine Coon’s love for TV actually makes a lot of sense. Here’s a fun look at why Maine Coons are the couch potato companions we never knew we needed!
1. Big Cats, Big Brains
Maine Coons are known for their intelligence, and it’s one of the reasons they’re drawn to screens. They’re incredibly curious and observant, and the moving images on a TV screen are like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Whether it’s following a leaping animal in a nature show or a car zooming by in a commercial, Maine Coons seem to think, “This could be prey! Or at least something fun to chase!” Don’t be surprised if your cat starts swatting at the screen or, if they’re really bold, tries to “capture” what’s happening on TV.
2. Nature Documentaries = Cat Netflix
For Maine Coons, nature documentaries are the cat equivalent of Netflix binge-watching. Birds flying, mice scurrying, fish swimming—it’s all incredibly stimulating for these natural-born hunters. Sure, your Maine Coon might be a pampered indoor kitty, but that doesn’t stop them from feeling the thrill of the (virtual) hunt. And if you leave on “Bird TV” or “Cat TV” channels while you’re out, don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon sits in front of the screen, entranced, for hours. It’s their idea of premium content.
3. The Bigger, the Better
With their large, muscular build and luxurious coats, Maine Coons are often called the “gentle giants” of the cat world, so it only makes sense that they’d appreciate a big screen. After all, if they can barely fit on a normal-sized cat bed, why would they settle for a tiny tablet? For a Maine Coon, a widescreen TV is the perfect viewing experience. They’ll happily sit front and center, mesmerized by every pixel, and if they block your view—well, sorry, but it’s their turn to watch!
4. Bonding Time with Their Humans
Maine Coons are famously affectionate and love spending time with their families, even if it means watching something they don’t quite understand. If you settle in to watch your favorite show, don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon joins you, snuggling up close and keeping one eye on the TV. It’s not so much about what you’re watching as it is about enjoying time together. Your Maine Coon might even make themselves the honorary “remote guardian,” lying on the remote to make sure you don’t change the channel.
5. They Just Might Judge Your Taste
One of the funniest things about Maine Coons is their expressive personalities. If your Maine Coon seems unimpressed with your choice of show, they might give you a look that clearly says, “Really? You’re watching this?” They’ll yawn, turn around, and maybe even flick their tail in mild disdain. But put on something action-packed or full of animal scenes, and they’ll perk up instantly. So, if you find yourself watching a lot of nature shows or animal-themed programs, it’s probably because your Maine Coon has taken control of the TV lineup!
6. Sounds Are Half the Fun
Maine Coons are curious not only about visuals but also sounds. Animal calls, rustling leaves, and the squeaks of small creatures can captivate them as much as any image on the screen. Sometimes they might even try to “talk back” with chirps, trills, or meows, as if they’re part of the show themselves! Just be prepared for some enthusiastic reactions if they hear a bird chirping or a dog barking—it might be as close as they can get to chatting with the characters on screen.
7. The Great “Screen Protector” Debate
Of course, if your Maine Coon really gets into the action, they might want to get a little closer… and closer… until they’re right up against the screen. Some Maine Coon owners have to deal with “screen swatters” who can’t resist batting at their favorite moving objects. If your cat gets a little too enthusiastic, it might be time to invest in a screen protector—because the last thing you want is for them to “catch” something on screen that ends up costing you a new TV!
8. The Ideal Binge-Watch Buddy
Let’s face it: Maine Coons make the best binge-watch buddies. They’re calm, they’re affectionate, and they’ll stick with you through every twist and turn of your favorite show. They don’t care if you’re rewatching a cheesy rom-com or diving into a dark thriller—they’re just happy to be by your side. And the best part? They won’t interrupt with spoilers or insist on changing the channel (unless a really good bird video is on, of course).
The Verdict: Maine Coons and TV Are a Perfect Match
So, why does your Maine Coon love watching TV? It’s all about a combination of natural curiosity, love of movement, social bonding, and maybe a hint of diva attitude. Next time you settle in for a movie night, don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon takes up a prime spot on the couch, ready to join in. And who knows—they might even become the biggest TV critic in the house!
From nature documentaries to animated animals, Maine Coons bring a whole new level of enjoyment to screen time. Just be warned: once your Maine Coon discovers the joys of TV, you might find them staring at the screen even when you’re not around… and possibly lobbying for the remote.