Potential health issues in Maine Coon cats

• Hip dysplasia, which in severe cases can cause lameness,

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a form of heart disease that is inherited in Maine Coons. A DNA-based test is available to identify cats that carry one of the mutations that causes the disease.

• Polycystic kidney disease, a slowly progressive heritable kidney disease that can result in renal failure. A DNA test is also available for this.

• Spinal muscular atrophy, a genetic disorder that affects skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. A test is available to identify carriers and affected kittens.

Maine Coon Fun fact

Some Main Coons have a condition called Polydactylism. They may have one or more extra toes on each paw however because they are so hairy people don’t often notice. Some registering bodies don't recognise polydactyl Maine Coons either for breeding or showing - and others impose an upper limit (often 7) on the number of toes/foot acceptable for both breeding and showing.

Maine Coon Cats & Maine Coon Cat Breeders

Maine Coon cats are known for their size, intelligence and gentle, playful personalities which makes them very popular with families. They get on well with children and other pets but don’t always want to have a cuddle or sit on someone’s lap. They love the water and can be good swimmers, they are good climbers and love to sit in a high position and observe the world.

The ideal owner for a Maine Coon cat

The ideal owner for the Maine Coon is a family who will love it and play with it. Maine Coons enjoy being around children and other family pets but they do need someone who is prepared to clean up hair as they do shed. They are a companionable cat making an excellent companion for a single adult to whom they become closely bonded.

Maine Coon cat grooming and training

The Maine Coons coat is long and flowing but is manageable because the coat is soft and glossy and rarely matts. To keep it in top condition they do need to be brushed once a week for about 10 minutes. They have a light density undercoat which means the fur is thicker in winter and they will shed this at the start of the hotter months.

These cats are smart and they know it! They can be trained to come when called and to do tricks. They are easily trained to walk in a harness.

How much space and exercise does a Maine Coon cat need?

The Main Coon loves interactive play with their owners. This, along with a large fully enclosed yard where they can run and an interesting garden will make them happy. If a large yard is not available cat trees and perches are a good alternative. They must not be allowed to run free, as they very quickly travel long distances and can be stolen, or come to harm.

Exercise is important so that they don’t get soft. They rarely become overweight, unless they are bored, as they seem to have good control over their appetite.

Main Coon Cat FAQ's

How much does a Maine Coon cat cost? At least $1,000 and easily up to $3,000 + for a pet.

Are Maine Coon cats’ good pets? If you like companionable cat that isn't noisy, overactive or demanding!

Do Maine Coon cats shed a lot? Quite a lot, especially in spring.

Are Maine Coons affectionate? Moderately. They are quite playful which is what makes them such a great pet for families.

Are Maine Coon Cats smart? Moderately. They can be taught tricks like hi-five, shake hands, rubbing noses.

Do Maine coons get on with other cats? Yes, they are very accepting of other pets, and don't become aggressive if the other pet doesn't like them!

Thanks to Truda Straede for help with information and photos TRUDA'S AUSTRALIAN MIST & MAINE COONS.

Check our listings for Kittens for sale here and click on the links to our breeders below to go to their profile page. You can also click here to search for Registered Maine Coon Breeders by location.