Shocking Causes Of Death In Maine Coons
Maine Coon cats are known for their strength, size, and loving nature, but just like any breed, they are vulnerable to a range of health conditions.
While many Maine Coons live long, healthy lives into their teens or beyond, certain diseases and complications are more common in the breed – and in cats in general.
Below is a complete breakdown of the most common (and some less common) causes of death in Maine Coons, explained clearly for cat owners at every level.
Maine Coon Health Snapshot
The Maine Coon cat breed is known for its hardy nature, but they are still susceptible to developing a number of health conditions.
On average, Maine Coons live 12 to 15 years, though some will reach 15+ years with excellent care.
Their gentle nature and robustness make them beloved companions, but owners should look out for symptoms of these breed-specific health vulnerabilities:
| Condition | When It Appears | Symptoms to Watch For |
|---|---|---|
| Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) | Young adult (often 2–4 years) | Sudden collapse, rapid breathing, coughing, hind‑leg paralysis |
| Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) | 3–4 months old | Wobbling, tremors, difficulty jumping |
| Hip Dysplasia | From adulthood to senior | Stiffness, reluctance to jump, sore back/joints |
| Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | Senior years (7+ years) | Drinking/urinating more, weight loss, dull coat |
| Dental Problems | As early as 6 months | Bad breath, bleeding gums, loss of appetite |
| Obesity | Adult cats | Difficulty moving, overeating, risk of diabetes |
| Other Issues | Any age | Patellar luxation, eyelid entropion, rare kidney cysts, cancer, seizures |
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
This genetic condition causes thickening of the heart muscle, reducing its efficiency. Left untreated, it can lead to sudden death, even in seemingly healthy cats.
Early diagnosis via echocardiogram and genetic testing allows for intervention, such as medications or dietary changes.
Learn more about Maine Coon Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, in this fact-filled guide.
2. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Maine Coons with SMA appear wobbly or trembly during kittenhood.
Although there’s no cure, the condition doesn’t affect their lifespan or mental sharpness.
Most live comfortably if you adapt their environment, like lowering food dishes and adding ramps.
You can learn more about Maine Coon Spinal Muscual Atrophy, in this article.
3. Hip Dysplasia
Often seen in larger cats, this painful joint disorder can keep them from jumping or walking normally.
You can help by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Providing joint-supporting diets
- Working with a vet on pain relief or mobility aids
Click here to learn more about Maine Coon hip dysplasia.
4. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a hereditary disease that affects cats born with cysts growing on their kidneys.
Over the cat’s lifespan, the cysts grow, supplanting the cat’s normal kidney tissue. Ultimately, this decreases the renal capacity, consequently causing Maine Coon urinary problems.
The bad news is that, unlike many other Maine Coon health problems, PKD is irreversible and may never be manifested until it causes sudden death.
Symptoms of PKD start showing up when the cat is around seven years old and include:
- Torpidity
- Frequent Urination
- Vomiting
- Loss Of Appetite
- Lethargy
- Increased Thirst
- Weight Loss
Kidney function typically declines over time, especially in older cats. You may notice increased thirst or reduced grooming.
Early detection through blood and urine tests, paired with a kidney-friendly diet, can significantly slow progression.
5. Dental Disease
Dental issues can cause chronic pain and infection, indirectly affecting overall health. Regular dental checks and brushing are essential preventive actions.
Find out more about Maine Coon Teeth conditions, in my informative article.
6. Obesity
Being overweight raises the risk of arthritis, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
Maine Coons retain an appetite for life, so portion control and active play are vital to avoid extra pounds.
Follow this checklist to discover if your Maine Coon cat has piled on a few too many pounds.
7. Cancer
Cancer is a major cause of death in older Maine Coons. Several types are especially common in felines, including:
- Lymphoma: Affects the lymphatic system. Symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
- Mammary Tumors: Particularly common in unspayed females. These can become malignant.
- Oral Cancer: Tumors in the mouth or jaw often go undetected until eating becomes painful.
- Bone Cancer: Although rare, it’s highly aggressive and often spreads quickly.
Warning Signs:
- Sudden weight loss
- Swelling or lumps
- Drooling or difficulty eating
- Lack of appetite or energy
8. Seizures
Seizures in Maine Coons can be caused by primary epilepsy, brain tumors, or organ failure (e.g., liver or kidney disease). Seizures may also occur due to toxic exposure.
What a Seizure Looks Like:
- Collapse
- Uncontrollable twitching
- Foaming at the mouth
- Temporary blindness or confusion afterward (called a “postictal” phase)
Underlying Causes:
- Primary Epilepsy: Inherited, often appears in younger cats.
- Secondary Causes: Head trauma, toxins, or brain tumors.
Best Practices For Breeders & New Owners
- Health Screening: Ask breeders for genetic and physical screening records, especially for HCM, SMA, and hip conditions.
- Annual Vet Visits: Encourage yearly wellness exam, including heart ultrasound, blood panels, and dental check by age 1.
- Balanced Diet: Feed high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets tailored to life stage. Consider supplements like omega-3s and joint support.
- Weight Management: Check your cat’s body condition monthly; a visible waist and easy feeling of ribs indicate healthy weight.
- Proactive Dental Care: Daily brushing and semi-annual or annual professional cleanings prevent long-term issues.
For The Responsible Owner…
By knowing the common health challenges facing Maine Coons and actively working to prevent them, you set your cat up for a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life.
Early detection, routine checks, smart feeding, and proper environment adaptations are your most powerful tools.
Life Expectancy
The average Maine Coon lifespan is 12.5 years, however, some reach over 15 years!
If you own a Maine Coon, you can potentially help your beloved cat live longer by ensuring that the feline gets the best level of care. This is achieved by:
- Feeding the cat a high-quality diet
- Ensuring the cat gets enough exercise regularly
- Taking the cat for regular veterinary checkups
With good quality care, you can potentially extend the life of your Maine Coon.
