Best Cat Foods For Maine Coons In 2024

As a proud Maine Coon owner, ensuring the best nutrition for my beloved cats, Mika and Bali, has always been of utmost importance.

As the largest domesticated cat breed in the world, I’m all too aware of these beautiful cats’ somewhat unique dietary needs, especially after Pippin, my first Maine Coon cat experienced a near-fatal urinary tract infection.

Hands up, I’m a bit of a cat nerd so I’m not going to admit the crazy number of hours I’ve sat reading various cat food labels so that I could produce this MUST-READ article!!

Our cat food reviews are based on in-depth research, plus our cats (Mika, and Bali) firsthand experience! We aim to provide valuable insights for our audience. We may earn a small commission if you purchase via one of our Amazon links. Learn more.

Best Cat Foods For Maine Coons

A Maine Coon’s diet should consist of high-quality protein to support their muscular build and energy levels. Avoid fillers and minimize carbohydrates as these can lead to obesity and other cat health issues.

Opt for cat foods with real meat listed as the first ingredient and minimal additives or fillers.

Ensure the diet is balanced and provides essential nutrients like:

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Take a quick peek at the list below to see the top-rated cat foods specifically formulated to meet the unique dietary needs of Maine Coon cats. Then scroll down to read our complete cat product review.

From protein-rich kibble to premium wet food options, we’ve handpicked the best brands renowned for their quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Take a closer look at the cat food in my summary by clicking on the Amazon links, or scroll down to read my in-depth cat product reviews:

1. Dr. Elsey’s Cleanprotein Grain Free High Protein, Low Carb Dry Cat Food (Chicken)

Dr. Elsey’s Cleanprotein dry cat food is grain-free and packed full of protein to meet the nutritional needs of your Maine Coon cat. It is for ALL LIFE STAGES.

Its chicken-based formula boasts a crude protein minimum content of 59%, which is critical for this large cat breed as it ensures they get muscle-building nutrition. Plus, being grain-free and low in carbs, it’s gentle on their sensitive stomachs.

However, I noticed that some customers complained that the packaging varies, which caused them some confusion.

What did we think?

Mika and Bali are high-energy cats that need a nutritionally balanced diet. They enjoyed this dry food, and Bali’s sensitive stomach wasn’t negatively affected.

Pros

• High protein content (Minimum 59% crude)
• Grain-free & low-carb formula
• Chicken-based formula
• Gentle on sensitive stomachs
• Supports muscle mass and energy levels

Cons

• Some customers complain the packaging varies
• Some cats might not like dry cat food

2. Royal Canin Maine Coon Breed – Adult Dry Food

This chicken-flavored Royal Canin Maine Coon Breed Adult Dry Cat Food is one of our go-to choices.

My three Maine Coons are chief taste testers and all absolutely love this cat food! And, I love that this food is tailored to meet the Maine Coon breeds specific nutritional needs. Everyone’s a winner!

Katrina Stewardson, Maine Coon Central

This cat food boasts a high meat content, with a minimum of 32% protein, making it ideal for our active and muscular Maine Coons.

Here are a few great things about this dry cat food:

• Dental Health: The kibble’s size and texture are designed to promote chewing, aiding in dental hygiene by reducing tartar and plaque buildup.
• Skin and Coat Health: Enriched with essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which contribute to healthy skin and a lustrous coat.
• Overall Health: This food is fortified with a precise blend of vitamins (including vitamins A, C, and E), minerals (such as zinc and selenium), and antioxidants (like vitamin C and taurine) to support the immune system and overall health.
• Joint and Bone Health: Contains nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin, essential for maintaining joint health and bone strength.
• Digestive Health: Includes highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to support digestive health, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

What did we think?

Before Pippin developed a UTI he loved to munch on this breed-specific cat food, and it kept his teeth nice and healthy. Mika and Bali

are fussy eaters but thoroughly enjoy this cat food.

Pros

• Tailored formula for Maine Coon cats
• High meat content
  (minimum 32% protein)
• Supports healthy
  muscle development
• Larger kibble size
• Contains specific nutrients for coat and joint health

Cons

• Contains some fillers
• Relatively expensive
  compared to other brands
• Some cats may not prefer
  the taste

The cat biscuits taste like chicken and are shaped like large round balls. Although these balls look too large, don’t stress!! Size isn’t a problem, it’s a bonus!

The larger size prevents cats from eating their meal too quickly – Mika, my younger Maine Coon had to learn to eat slower!

Slower eating aids your cat’s digestion and stops them from vomiting the food back up shortly afterward. Crunching the kibble also aids your cat’s dental health.

3. Purina ONE High Protein, Dry Cat Food (BUDGET FRIENDLY CAT FOOD)

As a conscientious cat owner, I’m always on the lookout for affordable yet high-quality cat food options.

The Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food is not only cost-effective, but also packs a punch with its 42% high protein content and a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support a cat’s health.

Protein is essential for your muscular Maine Coon cat because it supports muscle health and weight management.

My cats didn’t experience an issue with this cat food, it’s one of the few dry foods they will eat! However, I noticed whilst reading customer reviews that some cat owners found their cats were sensitive to the ingredients.

What did we think?

Mika and Bali enjoyed this cat food for 6 months, however, during this time Bali developed a near-fatal UTI so we switched both cats to a diet specifically tailored to urinary tract health.

Pros

• Cost-effective option for high-quality cat food
• High protein content (42%) supports muscle health and weight management
• Turkey is the primary ingredient
• Formulated with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

Cons

• May contain ingredients that some cats are sensitive to
• Not tailored to address specific dietary needs of the Maine Coon breed

1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Wet Food

The Blue Buffalo Wilderness brand caught my eye as I analyzed wet cat foods advertised as high in protein and grain-free.

I ordered a range of flavors from Amazon because my two Maine Coons are super fussy, so it was important I gave this cat food brand a fair go.

This pate wet food boasts impressive nutritional stats, with:

• Protein 10.0%
• Fat 9%
• Fiber 1.5%
• Moisture 78.0%
• Taurine 0.10%

A whopping 95% of the protein comes from real chicken, ensuring your cat gets the protein they need.

I also loved that this pate wet food was 100% grain-free, and is FREE FROM:

• Chicken or Poultry By-Product Meals
• Artificial Preservatives
• Corn
• Wheat
• Soy

This wet cat food is ideal for adult Maine Coons and is fortified with vitamins and minerals to help keep them healthy.

What did we think?

Bali was the main product reviewer for the Blue Buffalo pate since Mika is a fussy fluffball who doesn’t like pate!

Pros

• High protein content
• Real chicken listed as the main ingredient
• Grain-free formula
• Pate texture appeals to cats
• Supports large cats’ muscle mass and energy levels

Cons

• May not suit all cats’ preferences
• Packaging may vary

Best Cat Food For Urinary Tract Health

Royal Canin Urinary S/O Cat Food – Veterinary Diet

My cats are all notoriously picky eaters and have given their paw of approval to the Royal Canin Urinary S/O cat food!

With a protein content of 29% and real meat as the main ingredient the tailored formulation specifically targets their urinary health, and since switching to this diet, our cats have been UTI-free.

Please Note: This cat food is designed for cats suffering from, or prone to urinary tract infections ONLY. Consult your vet before giving this cat food to your pet to ensure it is suitable.

Maine Coon Central

Royal Canin Urinary S/O Cat & Dog Food is specially formulated to support urinary health by promoting the dissolution of struvite stones and preventing their recurrence.

It creates an environment unfavorable to the development of both struvite and calcium oxalate crystals. Additionally, this food contains a precise balance of minerals to help maintain optimal kidney function and support overall urinary tract health.

Beyond urinary health, Royal Canin provides complete and balanced nutrition to support the overall well-being of cats, including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Promoting a shiny coat
• Supporting digestive health

I first encountered the Royal Canin Urinary S/O cat food diet when my Maine Coon cat Pippin had a near-fatal urinary tract infection. The vet advised me to switch to this cat food immediately, a valuable tip that saved Pippin’s life.

For 5+ years Pippin thrived on this specialized diet until the day he peacefully crossed the rainbow bridge.

Fast forward to welcoming Mika and Bali into our lives, and despite our best efforts with various high-quality cat food brands, UTI issues plagued them both so we quickly moved them over to this cat food and experienced no further UTI problems.

What did we think?

All three of our cats have a diet predominately focused on this specific cat food, as all have been susceptible to urinary tract issues. They enjoy eating this cat food, despite being super fussy felines.

Pros

• Tailored for urinary health
• High protein content (29%)
• Real meat is the main ingredient
• Can be purchased in bulk from a range of online stores

Cons

• It’s expensive, but far cheaper than having to pay for one of our cats to have another 3-day stay at the pet hospital! $3797 (£3,000) later, this pricey cat food looks like a bargain!
• Some cats may not like the taste
• The biscuits are far smaller than the Royal Canin Maine Coon breed dry food, so less effective at keeping a cat’s teeth healthy.

Other Things You NEED To Know…

Scroll down, or click on the subject you’re interested in

Dry Cat Food – Pros and Cons Wet Cat Food – Pros and Cons Overfeeding Risks Foods That Harm Maine Coons Food Bowl Requirements

Dry Cat Food

Pros

1. Dental Health: The crunchy texture of dry food helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better dental health. Learn more about Maine Coon Teeth.
2. Convenience: Dry food is easy to store, doesn’t require refrigeration, and can be left out for free feeding.
3. Cost-Effective: More affordable than wet food, making it a budget-friendly option for cat owners.
4. Energy Density: Dry food is more calorie-dense than wet food, meaning cats can consume smaller portions to meet their energy needs.

Cons

1. Hydration: Dry food contains minimal moisture, which may lead to dehydration, especially in cats that don’t drink enough water.
2. Palatability: Some cats may find dry food less appealing due to its texture and lack of strong aroma, leading to picky eating habits.
3. Digestibility: Dry food may be harder for some cats to digest, particularly those with dental issues or sensitive stomachs.
4. Weight Management: Dry food often contains more carbohydrates and calories per serving, making it less suitable for overweight or obese cats.

Wet Cat Food

Pros

1. High Moisture Content: Helps with hydration, especially for cats that don’t drink much water.
2. Palatability: Many cats find wet food more appetizing due to its meaty texture and strong aroma.
3. Digestibility: Wet food is easier to digest, making it suitable for cats with dental issues, sensitive stomachs, or medical conditions.
4. Weight Management: Wet food tends to have fewer carbohydrates and fewer calories per serving, making it suitable for overweight cats.

Cons

1. Spoilage: Wet food can spoil quickly once opened, requiring refrigeration and careful storage.
2. Cost: More expensive than dry food.
3. Dental Health: Wet food doesn’t provide the same dental benefits as dry food, potentially leading to dental issues like plaque and tartar buildup.
4. Mess: Wet food can be messy to serve and clean up.

These are the Best Wet Foods For Kittens.

Overfeeding

This breed has a hearty appetite, and owners may unintentionally overfeed them.

Overfeeding your Maine Coon can lead to various health issues due to their large size and predisposition to obesity.

Excessive weight gain can strain their joints, leading to arthritis, and put them at a higher risk of:

• Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Other Maine Coon Health Problems.

Owners should monitor their cats’ food intake, provide their pets with a balanced diet, and engage them in regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

If you are unsure how much to feed your Maine Coon cat, read my guide: How Much To Feed A Maine Coon Cat.

Harmful Foods

Here are the top 10 foods that will harm your precious pet:

• Chocolate
• Onions and Garlic
• Alcohol
• Grapes and Raisins
• Xylitol (Sweetener)
• Raw Fish
• Bones
• Dairy Products
• Raw Eggs
• Liver

Here is a Complete List Of Foods To Avoid.

Food Bowl

Maine Coons benefit from raised flat bowls due to their size and whisker length!

An elevated bowl provides a more comfortable eating position and limits strain on the cat’s neck and back whilst eating. It also promotes better digestion.

Raised bowls can help prevent whisker fatigue, a condition where a cat’s sensitive whiskers become stressed from rubbing against the sides of a bowl.

Conclusion

Selecting the best cat food for Maine Coons involves considering various factors such as nutritional content, ingredient quality, and your cat’s individual preferences.

Throughout this exploration, we’ve highlighted several top contenders, each offering unique benefits.

Whether you prioritize high protein content, grain-free options, or specific health benefits like urinary tract support, these cat foods meet your needs.