Maine Coon
Overview
One of the largest domestic breeds — a gentle giant that is sociable, intelligent and known for soft chirps and trills.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Maine Coon is affectionate and excellent with children of all ages. They tend to be moderately chatty and copes with some time alone. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A Maine Coon is generally moderate energy. They enjoy a healthy mix of play and rest; a couple of short play sessions a day keeps them happy.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is high upkeep and shedding is high. A longer or denser coat needs regular brushing — often several times a week — to prevent painful mats and reduce hairballs. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Maine Coon should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Friendly, sociable “gentle giant” that gets on well with children and dogs
- +Playful and trainable without being demanding or highly strung
Things to consider
- –Long shaggy coat needs frequent grooming and sheds a fair amount
- –Large size means bigger appetite, litter tray and overall running costs
Is a Maine Coon right for you?
A Maine Coon tends to be copes with some time alone and affectionate. They generally cope with the rhythms of a typical home, though no cat should be left alone for very long. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Maine Coon
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Maine Coons good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are Maine Coons affectionate?
Affectionate. Maine Coons typically love close company and lap time.
Are Maine Coons vocal?
Moderately chatty. They are moderately chatty.
How much grooming does a Maine Coon need?
High upkeep; shedding is high. A longer or denser coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting.
Can Maine Coons be left alone?
Copes with some time alone. They manage some time alone but appreciate company and enrichment.
Are Maine Coons energetic or playful?
Moderate energy. They enjoy a good mix of play and rest.