Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is a large muscular breed. They were originally working domestic cats, championed for their mousing prowess. Happy in colder climates, the Maine Coons need lots of space and use their bushy tails as blankets, wrapping them around their bodies. They’re happy chilling.

Snapshot

Maintenance

Their silky coat doesn’t matt, but requires combing often to prevent them ingesting too much hair when licking themselves (*hairball alert*).

Ego

They are loyal cats, independent and easygoing.

Intelligence

Maine Coons have above-average intelligence, which may explain why they are great at catching mice.

Sociability

Even though they seem incredibly relaxed, they need to be around people and other pets.

Celebrity Doppelgänger

Thom Yorke

Scratching

If you worry about soft furnishings, beware that Maine Coons shed every summer. Their shedding pattern varies dramatically each year, so stock up on lint brushes.

Popular Names

Whisky, Bourbon, Charcoal

Health & Care

Maine Coons can suffer from hereditary health issues such as hip dysplasia and spinal muscular atrophy; both affect their ability to move. They also need lots of space to roam around, so it’s not advisable to keep them as house cats.

Key Facts

AVERAGE LIFESPAN
12 - 16 years
AVERAGE WEIGHT
4 - 8 kg

Common Conditions

Hip Dysplasia

The disease usually manifests as a problem with mobility. Maine Coons can have their hips rated by a vet, so if you are buying from a breeder make sure you know the history of your kitten’s parents. Typical treatment starts with a short course of anti-inflammatories, moving to x-rays and possibly more advanced imaging with surgery once the problem is fully diagnosed.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal cord neurons die, causing weakness in the muscles surrounding the spine. Spinal muscle atropy causes cats to walk with swinging hips or have difficulty jumping. Kittens can be DNA tested to recognise if they are a carrier of the gene.

Average vet fees: £ 30 - 100

Tip for first-time owners

Don't be alarmed by their conversational tone. Maine Coons love a good natter, but instead of miaowing they make distinctive chirping and chattering sounds.

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