Oversized and playful, Main Coon cats love attention and adventure in equal measure. Their luscious, double coat mixed with their affectionate nature makes them the perfect lap cat.
Personality and temperament
These people-orientated fluffballs are confident and calm, and love nothing more than being part of a family. They keep their playfulness well into their adult years, with a distinct trill ‘voice’ and are social creatures who just want to be near their humans as much as possible. Maine Coons are gentle, oversized couch-lovers and are rarely aggressive; they can also get along with other feline friends and friendly pups.
Size and appearance
Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed in the world – a title they wear proudly. Males can weight up to a whopping 11kg and measure up to a metre from noise to tail! They have a thick, double coat of fur that sheds in spring and autumn, and long, flowing tails, which they wrap around their body in cold weather. Their tufted paws and ears are designed for cold weather, and their fur is longer on their tummy, chest and tail giving them a lion-like appearance.
History
While the history of the breed is still debated, it’s believed Maine Coons were descended from European ship cats arriving on American shores. Some think they could date back to Viking times, others date them back only as far as the 1800s. Originating from the state of Maine, these large cats adapted to the harsh winters by developing their thick, shaggy coat and ‘snow-shoe’ paws. Local farmers began exhibiting their ‘coon’ cats as early as the 1860s, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s when the breed was officially recognised. The first Maine Coons arrived in Australia in the 1980s, before being introduced to New Zealand in 1996.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
Maine Coon cats are prone to the following health conditions due to their enormous size and genetics.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a genetic heart condition)
- Hip dysplasia (where the hip joints don’t form properly)
- Spinal muscular atrophy (a genetic condition affecting muscle development)
- Polycystic kidney disease (where cysts develop in the kidneys)
- Feline stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth and gums)
- Obesity and joint strain, due to their size
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Maine Coon healthy.
Food and exercise
Being active cats, Maine Coons need a protein-rich, nutrient-dense diet, but just because they are big, doesn’t mean they need lots of food. Always follow portion-size recommendations and avoid leaving food out as they’re prone to obesity. Your vet may advise supplementing their diet with vitamins to support joint health.
Maine Coons are surprisingly athletic and a daily, low-impact playing session with toys, laser pointers and puzzle feeders will keep them happy, as will playing fetch or providing water for them to play with.
Grooming and maintenance
Even though Maine Coons have long, shaggy double coats, their fluffy fur naturally resists matting. They shed year-round with heavier shedding in spring and autumn.
How to groom your Maine Coons
- Coat type: dense double coat with a water-resistant layer
- Fur: brush 2-3 times a week with a slicker brush and metal comb (focus on the neck, tummy and tail)
- Nails: trim every 3-4 weeks
- Ears: check weekly for dirt or wax build up
- Eyes: wipe with a damp cloth when needed
Training and space requirements
This breed is eager to please and quick to learn, making them a joy to train. They have dog-like tendencies and can be taught to ‘sit’, ‘wait’ and ‘come’ with calm, positive reinforcement. Some Maine Coons can also enjoy walking with a harness and can be taken for short walks on a lead.
Despite their large size, Maine Coons don’t need a mansion to live comfortably. They can be suited to smaller houses as long as there is enough ‘vertical space’ to enjoy – think climbing trees and bookcases to scale, and perches high up where they can observe. Mental stimulation is also important as they can get bored, especially if left alone for too long.
Best suited for…
Maine Coons are ideal for lively families, singles, or couples who want a friendly, gentle ‘Velcro’ buddy. They’re relaxed with kids, doggos and even other cats, and will thrive in homes where they can be part of everyday life – whether that’s following you around from room to room or simply curling up in a nearby chair where they can keep an eye on you.
