Maine Coon Cat
The enormous Maine Coon got its start in Maine, as its name suggests, and it is still the official state cat there. They may even be linked to Marie Antoinette’s feline pals, according to rumors, according to Nicole Savageau, VMD, a mobile veterinarian with The Vets in Austin. Whatever their lineage, they are unquestionably a hardy breed, fit to prowl around in the bitter New England winters.
When it comes to Maine Coons, a small lap cat does not exist: Male adults can weigh up to 25 pounds, while female adults weigh 10 to 14 pounds. Females are significantly daintier. However, despite their massive stature, these kind giants have soft, fluffy personalities to match their fur.
Statistics
| LIFE SPAN | 9 to 15 years |
| LENGTH | 30 to 40 inches |
| WEIGHT | 9 to 18 pounds |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Maine, USA |
Caring for a Maine Coon
Maine Coons have become one of the most well-liked house cats in the United States because of their large, loving personality and cute little quirks.
They belong to the largest breeds of domestic cats as well. Compared to most breeds, they have longer bodies and significantly larger heads and paws. According to Savageau, Maine Coons use their furry paws as fluffy snowshoes. Additionally, many Maine Coons are “polydactyl,” meaning they have extra toes on each paw, allowing even more stability on slick slopes.
Maine Coons are large animals with some dog-like traits, such as a fondness for water and a propensity for fetch. All things considered, they are a relaxed bunch of kitties who enjoy hanging out with their loved ones.
Maine Coon Health Issues
Maine Coon cats live shorter lives than other cat breeds, averaging 13 years. Savageau advises Maine Coon kittens to get health insurance because they are susceptible to inherited diseases from their parents.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
In cats, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most prevalent type of cardiac illness. Many cats with the condition don’t exhibit any symptoms at all in the early stages. However, when it worsens, cats may experience lethargy and shortness of breath, which are hallmarks of heart failure. Thankfully, there are a few methods to prevent the illness from spreading:
DNA tests for felines at home
Genetically, heart disease (HCM) manifests itself differently in different breeds. According to Savageau, “Maine Coons can have a mutation in two genes that can cause this disease.” With the use of technology, at-home DNA tests may be able to check for certain mutations even before your cat exhibits symptoms.
a preventive approach.
An annual echocardiography (heart ultrasound) is the gold standard of preventive care for Maine Coon cats, according to Savageau declares. Asking your Maine Coon breeder if HCM runs in your cat’s family is also a good idea.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
A neurological condition called spinal muscular atrophy impairs a cat’s physical capabilities but not its mental faculties. Signs of spinal muscular atrophy in kittens usually appear between three and four months of age. Their tremors and unsteady gait are probably the result of weakening and diminished muscle tone. Even though it needs specific care, a cat with spinal muscular atrophy can have a long and fulfilling life.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Similar to human kidneys, cat kidneys also create vital hormones, control fluid, mineral, and electrolyte balance, and filter waste from the body. Cats with a hereditary predisposition to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) experience irreparable kidney damage due to kidney cyst development.
Similar to HCM, your cat can be tested for PKD at home using DNA tests before symptoms show up. When collaborating with a skilled Ask the Coon of Maine breeder if the condition has been genetically confirmed in both parents.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia may be the cause of your Maine Coon’s avoidance of stairs, inability to leap to their preferred perch, and lack of crouching in the litter box. Hip dysplasia in cats causes misaligned, excessively lax hips, which can result in arthritis. Hip dysplasia can be managed with weight control, a diet that is good for the joints, and (in extreme situations) surgery.
Chronic Gingivitis
Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, is thought to be the first sign of periodontal disease. All cats are susceptible to gingivitis, but Maine Coon cats may be susceptible to feline juvenile gingivitis as early as seven months of age. The best defense against dental disease is regular brushing of your cat’s teeth and regular trips to the vet.
What To Feed a Maine Coon
Animal protein-rich food labeled with a nutritional adequacy statement for their life stage from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) can be fed to Maine Coon cats in a manner comparable to that of other cat breeds, according to Savageau.
Furthermore, Royal Canin provides a food designed specifically for Maine Coon cats. When their Maine Coon kittens are two years old, pet parents can give them the adult maintenance formula from Royal Canin after giving them the food for growth.
How To Feed a Maine Coon
Because they have the longest whiskers of any domestic cat species, Maine Coon cats like extra-wide bowls for food and drink to avoid getting tired of their whiskers.
Maine Coons enjoy playing in the water, but water fountains can also help your cat stay hydrated. That being said, don’t be shocked if you discover your cat, who loves the water, with their paws in the fountain.
How Much Should You Feed a Maine Coon?
Your Main Coon cat’s nutritional needs are influenced by his weight, way of life, level of health, and other variables. For general feeding recommendations, check the packaging on your cat food, but consulting your veterinarian is the best course of action. The greatest diet advice for your cat, specifically customized for each individual, will come from your veterinarian.
Nutritional Tips for Maine Coons
Your cat will get all the nutrition he needs for his stage of life from cat foods that have an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement. Adult cats should be fed food appropriate to their age, while kittens should be fed food for growth or all life stages. Unless specifically advised by your veterinarian, supplements usually don’t need to be added to your cat’s food, according to Savageau. However, proactive pet owners might want to find out from their veterinarian if joint supplements are beneficial for their cat.
Behavior and Training Tips for Maine Coons
Although each cat is unique, Maine Coons often make relaxed and loving pets.
Maine Coon Personality and Temperament
Any family can benefit greatly from having the gentle Maine Coon as a member. They get along nicely with children and other animals, which makes them the ideal family cat, according to Savageau. Despite their enormous size, Maine Coons are kind and loving animals. Furthermore, your Maine Coon is likely to chirp, chatter, and trill rather than meow.
Maine Coon Behavior
Maine Coons require daily socialization and exercise to be happy, just like any other breed of cat. Playing with your cat for ten minutes or more every day will help prevent undesirable habits such as excessive vocalization and furniture clawing.
Despite their occasional playful outbursts, Maine Coon cats prefer to nap in their cat bed, on a sunny windowsill, or on the couch next to you for the majority of the day.
Maine Coon Training
When the location and arrangement of the litter box suit them, most cats find that litter box training comes easily to them. Maine Coons are anxious to learn more than just how to use a litter box, though, because they are extremely bright and curious animals. Maine coons can pick up amusing tricks if they are given positive reinforcement and a training clicker. (like fist bumping) and useful directives (like recall). Training your cat enhances their quality of life and fortifies the relationship between you and your furry best friend.
Fun Activities for Maine Coons
- Having a fetch game
- reclining on a window seat
- strolling with a leash and harness
- observing birds from a catio
- Toy puzzles
Maine Coon Grooming Guide
The lengthy, thick coats of Maine Coon cats can get matted or oily if they aren’t regularly groomed. This is what you should know about their requirements for grooming.
Skin Care
It might be time for an at-home bath if you see a lot of oil in your cat’s fur. The majority of Maine Coon cats are receptive to the odd bath, particularly if they were bathed as young animals.
Coat Care
The fur of a Maine Coon cat can range in tone and color from tabby, calico, and chocolate to pure white. Though most Maine Coon cats now contentedly live indoors, Savageau notes that all of the cats, regardless of color, have thick, double-layered coats that enable them withstand the harsh winters in Maine.
Regular grooming is necessary for the Maine Coon breed to avoid matting. The solution should be as simple as brushing your Maine Coon two or three times a week at home. Your cat could require an appointment with a professional groomer if his fur starts to form huge mats.
Eye Care
Gold, green, and blue oval-shaped eyes characterize Maine Coon cats. Generally, their eyes don’t require special care, but schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if you see any unusual discharge, redness, or overall crustiness. Most cat eye issues can be fixed with a single dose of medication.
Ear Care
The extra-large ears of your Maine Coon should be kept dry and clean, especially after swimming or bathing, to avoid ear infections. According to Savageau, “if they happen to get an infection, the ear canals will be red, smelly, and have a discharge.” “A veterinarian would need to see the cat.”
Considerations for Pet Parents
Adopting a Maine Coon kitten entails integrating them completely into your household. They need plenty of socializing with the people they love, even though they’re a little too big to be lap cats. Nevertheless, they are loving animals.
Maine Coons require stimulating activities in addition to spending time with their favorite humans in order to be happy. Savageau advises “buying them a very large, tall cat tree.” Your enormous cat will have lots of space to extend its wings and climb a tree that is at least six feet tall with a strong base. In fact, your Maine Coon should have slightly larger furniture and even litter boxes and comfortable beds.
Maine Coon FAQs
Is a Maine Coon a good pet?
Cats from Maine Coons get along well with kids and other animals. Their curiosity and intelligence make them perfect for trick training. Maine Coon cats are beloved by many pet parents because of their pup-like characteristics, such as their love of water and fetching prowess.
How much are Maine Coon cats?
The price range for Maine Coon cats is $400–2,000. When thinking about bringing a pet into your home, don’t forget to account for regular and emergency care, such as veterinary appointments, grooming, and pet sitting.
You might come across a Maine Coon (or a Maine Coon mix) at your neighborhood shelter if you’re interested in adopting one. Plus, there might be a Maine Coon rescue in your area.
How big is a Maine Coon cat?
The size of a Maine Coon cat is astounding. They belong among the major breeds of domestic cats. The weight range for males is 18–25 pounds, and the weight range for females is 10–14 pounds.
