7 Ways Maine Coon Paws Are Different (And Why It Matters)
Maine Coons are known for their impressive size and rugged good looks, but what many people don’t realise is just how much of that uniqueness starts at the paws.
From snowshoe-like structure to extra toes, Maine Coon paws are designed for life in cold climates and rough terrain.
These special traits aren’t just cosmetic, they’re part of what makes the Maine Coon such a capable, hardy, and affectionate companion.
Let’s explore the seven biggest ways Maine Coon paws differ from regular domestic cats, and why each one matters to your cat’s health, comfort, and lifestyle.
1. Paws Are Enormous Compared To Other Cats
One of the first things new Maine Coon owners notice is the sheer size of their cat’s paws.
Maine Coons are a large breed, and their paws are proportionate to their body. Their paws are considerably broader and more muscular than those of a typical house cat.
Why this matters:
Large paws help distribute their body weight more evenly, giving them better balance and stability when:
- Walking
- Jumping
- Climbing
This is especially important because a fully grown male Maine Coon can weigh over 20 lbs. Smaller, daintier paws wouldn’t offer the same support or functionality.
2. Paws Are Flatter And More Snowshoe-Like
Maine Coon paws are not just bigger, they’re also flatter than average cat paws.
This shape is a unique evolutionary adaptation that helped the breed survive in the snowy, rugged climates of New England, where they originated.
Why this matters:
These “snowshoe” paws act like built-in snow boots, spreading the cat’s weight over a larger surface area to prevent sinking into snow or soft ground.
While your indoor Maine Coon might not be trudging through snowdrifts, this trait still provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces and helps them land softly from jumps.
3. Long Tufts Of Fur Between Their Toes
One of the most distinctive features of a Maine Coon’s paw is the thick, silky fur that grows between their toes and around their pads.
These toe tufts, often called “paw fluffs,” are much more pronounced than what you’d see on a short-haired or average domestic cat.
Why this matters:
In cold climates, these tufts act like insulation, protecting their paws from:
- Frostbite
- Ice
- Rough terrain
Even for indoor cats, the tufts provide padding and help keep debris and litter out of their toe joints.
However, they do require regular grooming, as overgrown tufts can collect dirt, trap litter, and even lead to matting or slipping on smooth floors.
4. More Likely To Have Extra Toes (Polydactyl Paws)
Maine Coons have a higher-than-average chance of being polydactyl, meaning they’re born with extra toes!
Some Maine Coons have as many as 6 or 7 toes on each paw.
These “double paws” were especially common in early Maine Coons and are still seen today in both pet and show lines.
Why this matters:
Extra toes offer added surface area for gripping, climbing, and balance, which are useful traits in the snowy, uneven environments where the breed developed.
While polydactylism is generally harmless, it does require extra grooming attention. Each toe has a claw, and those extra claws can grow at odd angles, increasing the risk of injury or ingrown nails if not trimmed regularly.
5. Their Paw Pads Are Thick And Cushioned
Underneath all the fluff, Maine Coons have paw pads that are often thicker and more cushioned than regular cats.
These pads provide extra shock absorption when landing from high jumps and add grip when walking across uneven terrain.
Why this matters:
Heavier cats need stronger pads to avoid injury and strain on their joints.
A Maine Coon’s thick pads are part of what makes them so agile and athletic despite their size.
They also protect the paws from sharp stones, ice, and other natural hazards, making these cats excellent mousers and climbers, indoors or out.
6. Paws Need More Grooming Than Most Cats
Because of their fur density and size, Maine Coon paws are more prone to collecting dirt, litter, and debris.
They also have more hair to trap moisture, which can lead to mats, mildew smells, or fungal issues if left unchecked.
Why this matters:
Regular grooming of the paws – trimming toe tufts, cleaning between pads, and checking for foreign objects is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing issues like:
- Matting
- Slipping on floors
- Infected cuts
Owners should get their Maine Coons used to paw handling from a young age, which also helps with routine nail trimming.
7. Large, Fluffy Paws Make Kneading Adorable
Kneading, or “making biscuits,” is something all cats do, but when a Maine Coon kneads, you’ll know it.
Their big, plush paws, often accompanied by long claws, make each knead feel more intense and more noticeable.
Why this matters:
Kneading is a comforting, instinctual behavior. It’s a sign your Maine Coon feels safe and bonded to you.
But, because of the size of their paws and claws, regular nail trimming is extra important, especially if your cat likes to knead on your lap, legs, or chest!
Why These Differences Aren’t Just Cosmetic
Maine Coon paws have evolved as tools for survival. From climbing and hunting to insulation and balance, each adaptation serves a purpose.
Unlike typical domestic cats, whose paws are smaller and built mainly for lightweight indoor life, Maine Coons carry the legacy of their rugged, working-cat ancestry right in their feet.
Understanding these unique paw features helps you:
- Provide better grooming care
- Choose the right litter and flooring for your cat
- Avoid injuries caused by matted fur or overgrown claws
- Support their health and comfort as they age
Caring For Maine Coon Paws: Quick Tips
- Check paws weekly for debris, mats, or irritation
- Trim claws every 2-4 weeks, including any extra polydactyl toes
- Brush paw tufts gently to prevent mats or buildup
- Clean paws after outdoor time to remove grit, salt, or allergens
- Ask your vet if you’re unsure about trimming polydactyl nails
