Unlock The Secret: How To Raise A Massive Maine Coon
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a truly massive Maine Coon, you’re not alone!
Known as the gentle giants of the cat world, Maine Coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, with males ideally reaching between 18-22 pounds and females 12-15 pounds, according to TICA.org.
But raising a Maine Coon to its full size doesn’t happen by accident, it requires the right combination of genetics, nutrition, care, and patience.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the key factors that influence Maine Coon growth, explain how to support their development safely, and share expert tips to help your cat reach its full majestic potential.
7 Things That Make Maine Coon Grow Big
Intentional care, genetics, and patience are key to helping your Maine Coon reach it’s maximum size potential.
Here’s what truly makes a difference:
1. Genetics And Responsible Breeding
Your Maine Coon’s genetic background lays the foundation for growth potential. Breeders who prioritize robust size, bone structure, and long-term health are more likely to produce kittens that reach the higher end of the size range.
It’s not just about picking a cat that’s “cute,” but checking that their parents and grandparents meet breed standards.
Good breeders will have documentation and can show you the bloodlines:
- Average size
- Structure
- Absence of hereditary issues
2. Gentle, Slow Growth Curve
Maine Coons grow slowly over 3-5 years, unlike smaller cat breeds that finish growing by age 1-2.
A gentle growth curve is crucial – too fast, and you risk joint issues or obesity; too slow, and vital developmental windows may close.
During the first year, focus on steady weight gain without calorie spikes. By age 2 to 3, growth shifts from body length to muscle and bone mass. Continuing good nutrition and regular exercise throughout this time is essential.
3. Premium Nutrition Built For Growth
Your cat’s diet is the engine powering their development. Choose foods where named animal protein (e.g., chicken, turkey, fish) is the first ingredient, followed by healthy fats and limited, quality carbohydrates.
Products labeled for large breed kittens or with joint-support formulas (like glucosamine and chondroitin) can further support growing muscles and bones.
Avoid cheap diets with “meat by-products” or fillers like corn and wheat, as these can fill the cat’s belly without delivering the nutrients needed for strong muscle and bone health.
4. Health Monitoring And Preventative Vet Visits
Large breeds are more susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and spinal muscular atrophy.
Annual, or even semi-annual, veterinary assessments should include:
- Thorough physical exams
- Joint checks for swelling or lameness
- Heart screenings (echocardiograms)
- Bloodwork to assess organ and hormone health
These early checks can catch issues before they stunt growth or cause pain.
If your vet recommends supplements or joint-support meds, they can be introduced to maintain development.
5. Engaging Exercise And Environment
With their powerful bodies, Maine Coons need more than static cat furniture. Their muscles are built through dynamic activity, so they will also need:
- Strong climbing towers (with horizontal levels) let them use all four limbs as intended.
- Toys that engage on multiple levels, like feather wands or remote-controlled mice, encourage full sprints and pounces.
- Daily interactive play sessions (15-20 minutes) help build muscle tone, support a healthy weight, and break up long rest periods.
- Access to a secure outdoor space (catio) allows natural exploration and helps develop strength and coordination.
6. Grooming For Comfort And Pride
A healthy coat encourages healthy cats.
While grooming doesn’t directly affect size, it supports:
- Skin health: Prevents matting, hot spots, and bacterial buildup.
- Comfort: Mats irritate, making cats less likely to move and explore.
- Bonding: Regular handling accustoms your Maine Coon to vet visits, baths, and handling as they grow large.
7. Avoiding Calorie Traps And Unhealthy Weight Gain
Maine Coons mature slowly so owners should monitor their body condition carefully:
- Regularly check rib cage isn’t covered by a big fat layer
- Watch their waistline while standing and side-on
- A big cat shouldn’t look “round” or “soft”.
- Consider feeding portion-controlled meals rather than free-feeding
A consistent, measured intake helps them build muscle instead of storing fat.
Size Check – Where They Should Be
| Sex | Ideal Weight | Adult Size Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 18–22 lb | Tall, long-bodied, with proportionate shoulder width and strong bone structure |
| Female | 12–15 lb | Slightly smaller, but still robust and muscular |
Growth patterns:
- Kittens: rapid weight gain first 6-12 months
- Adolescents (1-3 years): length growth slows, muscles and bones strengthen
- Adults (3-5 years): reach their fullest size and structure
Learn more about the Maine Coon kitten growth rate, in my article ‘Maine Coon Growth Chart By Age‘.
Best Diet For Growth
To help your Maine Coon grow to its full size potential, it’s crucial to feed a diet tailored to the unique needs of a large, muscular, slow-growing breed.
The ideal Maine Coon food should be rich in animal-based protein, moderate in fat, low in fillers, and specifically formulated for either kittens, large breeds, or active adults (depending on age).
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for:
Nutritional Profile For Maine Coon Growth
| Nutrient | Ideal Range (Kittens) | Ideal Range (Adults) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 40-50% | 35-45% | Builds muscle, supports tissue repair, and growth |
| Fat | 18-25% | 15-20% | High energy needed for growth and brain development |
| Carbohydrates | <10% preferred | <15% preferred | Excess carbs can lead to fat gain rather than lean mass |
| Calcium: Phosphorus | 1.2:1 to 1.4:1 | 1.1:1 to 1.3:1 | Supports healthy bone development and joint strength |
| Taurine | 0.10-0.25% | 0.10-0.25% | Essential for heart, vision, and reproductive health |
| Omega-3 (DHA/EPA) | 0.02-0.05%+ | 0.01-0.03% | Supports brain, coat, and joint health |
| Moisture | 70-80% (wet food) | 70-80% (wet food) | Hydration helps kidney health and digestion |
What To Look For In Maine Coon Food
- Animal protein as the first Ingredient
Look for whole meats like chicken, turkey, salmon, or rabbit. Avoid vague terms like “meat by-product.” - Large breed or kitten formulas
For kittens and juveniles (up to age 15-18 months), choose formulas for “large breed kittens” or “active growth.” Adult Maine Coons benefit from formulas aimed at “indoor/active” or “large breeds.” - Joint support nutrients
Look for foods with added glucosamine and chondroitin, particularly in adult foods. Maine Coons are prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis. - Low to moderate carbohydrate levels
Cats have no nutritional need for grains or plant-based carbs. While small amounts of peas, sweet potato, or brown rice are okay, avoid corn, soy, wheat, or fillers. - High moisture content
Maine Coons are big water drinkers, but moisture-rich wet food helps prevent kidney strain and urinary tract issues, which are more common in large breeds. - Life stage appropriateness
- 0-1.5 years: Kitten-specific formula
- 1.5-5 years: Adult, large breed, or active formulas
- 5+ years: Senior formulas with joint, kidney, and heart support
Ideal Feeding Tip
Feed a combination of high-quality dry kibble and wet food. Aim for a maximum of 2 sachets of wet food a week, to avoid tooth decay.
Dry food helps with dental hygiene, while wet food adds hydration and protein density.
Foods To Avoid
- Generic store-brand cat foods with vague meat sources
- Grain-heavy kibble (corn, soy, wheat)
- Artificial colors or preservatives (BHA, BHT)
- Low-protein foods (under 30%)
- “All life stages” foods (can cause overfeeding or underfeeding at specific ages)
