Maine Coon Adoption Warning: Read This First!

If you’ve fallen in love with the gentle giant that is the Maine Coon cat, but breeder prices make your wallet cry, you’re not alone.

The cost of a purebred Maine Coon from a breeder can range from $1,000 to $2,500+, making adoption an attractive and more affordable alternative.

However, while Maine Coon adoption sounds like a dream come true, it also comes with its fair share of challenges and risks.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Maine Coon adoption, including:

• Important Warnings
• Where to adopt
• Average costs
• How to protect yourself from scams

Maine Coon Adoption Warnings

Maine Coon adoptions can be highly rewarding, but prospective owners must be aware of several common pitfalls.

While many adoptions go smoothly, a lack of due diligence can lead to disappointment or even financial loss.

Here are the top warning signs and potential issues to watch for when adopting a Maine Coon:

1. Online Scams And Fraudulent Listings

Scammers are known to exploit the popularity of the Maine Coon breed by creating fake adoption listings on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or even fraudulent “rescue” websites.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Prices that are too good to be true (e.g., $50–$200 for a “purebred Maine Coon kitten”).
• Requests for payment via Western Union, Zelle, or gift cards.
• No physical address, phone number, or real-world adoption location.
• Stock images or photos that appear on multiple websites.
• Refusal to let you meet the cat in person or via video before sending money.

Protect Yourself:

• Verify the rescue or seller’s credentials.
• Search online for the organization’s reviews and Better Business Bureau profile.
• Ask to see veterinary paperwork and original photos of the cat in their current environment.
• If the seller pressures you to act quickly or threatens to “give the kitten to someone else,” walk away.

According to Better Business Bureau, pet scams surged during the pandemic, with over 70% of victims reporting they were duped while trying to buy a kitten or puppy online.

2. Misidentified Or “Fake” Maine Coons

Many long-haired cats are mistaken for Maine Coons in shelters or online listings.

Without registration papers from a recognized breeding body like TICA or CFA, you have no guaranteed way to confirm that a cat is a purebred Maine Coon.

How to spot a Maine Coon:

• Shaggy, uneven fur (not silky like Persians).
• Tufted ears (lynx tips), large paws with toe tufts.
• Square muzzle and a prominent ruff of fur around the neck.
• Long, bushy tail – ideally as long as their body.
• Friendly, dog-like behavior and chirping vocalizations.

While mixed-breed Maine Coons can still be wonderful pets, be aware that 90%+ of Maine Coons in shelters are unpedigreed, meaning they’re not recognized as purebred by official standards.

3. Unknown Or Unscreened Medical Backgrounds

One major risk in adopting any cat is the lack of genetic health screening.

With Maine Coons, this is particularly concerning due to the breed’s predisposition to certain hereditary conditions.

Common Maine Coon Health Issues:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A potentially fatal heart disease; genetic testing can identify risk in kittens.
• Hip Dysplasia: Causes pain or lameness, especially in larger Maine Coons.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Cysts form in the kidneys, reducing function over time.
• Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): Causes muscle wasting and mobility issues.

Tip: Always ask the rescue or shelter for any known medical records, and have the cat examined by your vet shortly after adoption. Always purchase pet insurance, especially if the cat’s history is unclear.

4. Behavioral And Socialization Challenges

Maine Coons are known for their laid-back, affectionate nature, but some adopted cats may have experienced abuse, neglect, or long-term confinement.

Common behavioral concerns in adopted Maine Coons:

• Hiding, shyness, or aggressive responses to strangers.
• Litter box avoidance (often from stress or trauma).
• Over-grooming or fur plucking.
• Fear-based vocalizations or destructive scratching.

These behaviors don’t mean the cat is “bad”, they simply need time, consistency, and a patient, understanding owner.

A gentle routine, enrichment, and feline pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) can help.

5. Limited Shelter Availability

Due to high demand, it’s rare to find a purebred Maine Coon kitten in a shelter. Adult Maine Coons or Maine Coon mixes are more common, but still adopted quickly.

What you can do:

• Join a waiting list with Maine Coon-specific rescues.
• Be flexible on age, color, or pedigree to increase your chances.
• Set up alerts on Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet, or Rescue Me for “Maine Coon” in your area.

Tip: You’re more likely to find a Maine Coon in rescues if you’re open to adopting older cats, bonded pairs, or mixes.

Why Adopt A Maine Coon?

Adopting is a compassionate choice that gives a homeless cat a second chance at life.

While some purebred lovers prefer to buy from breeders, there are compelling reasons to adopt instead:

• Lower cost: You may pay 90% less than you would to purchase from a breeder.
• Adult cats are often already trained: They may be litter-box trained, well-socialized, and past destructive kitten behavior.
• Medical work often included: Most shelters and rescues include vaccines, spaying/neutering, flea treatments, and microchipping in the fee.
• You’re saving a life: Every adoption makes room for another cat in need.

Adoption Cost Comparison Table

Where To Adopt A Maine Coon

Here are a few places where you can adopt a Maine Coon cat:

🇺🇸 United States

East Coast Maine Coon Rescue spans a variety of states on the East Coast of America. They specialize in purebred and mixed Maine Coons waiting to find their forever homes.

Maine Coon Rescue is an American rescue located in Kentucky. They are dedicated to matching Maine Coons with potential owners all over the United States!

The Arizona Maine Coon Cat Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding forever homes for Maine Coon cats.

Only Maine Coons Rescue is located in Absecon, New Jersey, but participates in a wide variety of states, including Delaware and Maryland.

Merlin’s Hope Ragdoll & MC Rescue. This non-profit shelter is dedicated to rescuing
both Ragdoll and Maine Coon cats.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

• Maine Coon Cat Club (UK): maine-coon-cat-club.com
• Maine Coon Breed Society (UK): Offers rehoming pages with available cats.

The Maine Coon Cat Club is a UK-based organization that seeks to provide information about the Maine Coon breed. They also promote Maine Coon rescues who need a home.

The Maine Coon Breed society is also based in the UK. While primarily a breeding organization, they also keep an eye out for any Maine Coons needing to be rehomed.

Step-By-Step Guide To Adoption

Adopting a Maine Coon involves much more than filling out an application, it requires:

• Research
• Preparation
• Patience
• Dedication

Follow these detailed steps to increase your chances of a smooth and successful adoption:

1. Research The Breed Thoroughly

Before you even begin looking for available Maine Coons, it’s essential to understand the breed’s needs, temperament, and health risks.

• Traits: Maine Coons are large, intelligent, affectionate, and social cats that often crave companionship.
• Lifespan: They can live 10–15+ years, so it’s a long-term commitment.
• Care Needs: Their long fur needs regular grooming, and they require large, sturdy equipment due to their size.

2. Determine What You’re Looking For

Decide in advance which characteristics matter most to you:

• Age: Kitten, young adult, or senior?
• Gender: Some owners have a preference based on temperament.
• Purebred vs Mix: Is pedigree important, or are you open to Maine Coon mixes?
• Personality Match: Calm lap cat or playful adventurer?

Tip: Many rescues will match you with a cat based on lifestyle factors (e.g., if you have children or other pets).

3. Prepare Your Home

Ensure your home is Maine Coon-ready before adoption day:

• Cat-Proof Rooms: Remove toxic plants, secure wires, and block escape routes.
• Essential Supplies:
  • Jumbo litter tray
  • High-quality dry and wet food
  • Extra-large scratching posts and cat trees
  • Combs and grooming tools
  • Cozy hiding spots
  • Carrier and microchip tag

Tip: Because Maine Coons are highly intelligent and energetic, include puzzle toys and vertical climbing options to enrich their environment.

4. Start Contacting Rescues And Shelters

Find reputable organizations and apply:

• Specialty Rescues: Focus on breed-specific rescues for higher chances of finding a purebred.
• General Shelters: Inform them that you are specifically seeking a Maine Coon or long-haired breed.
• Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet: Use filters to set alerts for Maine Coons in your area.

Tip: Fill out adoption applications even if a Maine Coon isn’t currently available. You’ll be contacted if one comes in.

5. Vet The Source Carefully

Not all “adoptions” are ethical or safe. Protect yourself from scams:

• Ask for medical records, photos, and temperament info.
• Request a live video call to see the cat.
• Verify rescue credentials and reviews.

Avoid: Sellers asking for upfront payments via untraceable methods like gift cards, Zelle, or cryptocurrency.

6. Interview And Application Process

Most reputable rescues have a thorough screening process to ensure the cat is going to a suitable home:

• Expect Questions About:
  • Your home environment
  • Work schedule and lifestyle
  • Previous experience with pets
  • Other animals or young children in the household
• You Should Ask About:
  • The cat’s behavior, likes/dislikes
  • Whether it is comfortable with kids or other pets
  • Reason for surrender or rehoming
  • Any known health concerns or past trauma

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions; it shows you’re a responsible adopter.

7. Home Visit Or Virtual Home Check

Some rescues will want to inspect your home:

• This helps them verify that your environment is safe and appropriate.
• If a home visit isn’t possible, they may ask for a virtual tour via Zoom or photos.

8. Sign The Adoption Contract

Once you’re approved, you’ll be asked to sign a legal agreement:

• Typical Inclusions:
  • Terms of return if the adoption doesn’t work out
  • Agreement not to declaw the cat
  • Responsibility for future medical care
  • Confirmation that the cat is for companionship only
• Confirm what’s included in the fee: vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip, and flea/worm treatment.

9. Plan The Transition Home

The journey home and the first days are critical:

• Bring a Secure Carrier: Maine Coons are big cats, ensure the carrier is roomy and well-ventilated.
• Quiet Introduction: Confine your new cat to one room initially to reduce stress.
• Let Them Set the Pace: Don’t force interaction. Allow your cat to explore and approach you in their own time.

Tip: Place familiar-smelling bedding or toys in their space if available.

10. Follow-Up And Ongoing Care

After adoption, your journey is just beginning:

• Vet Visit: Book a check-up within the first week to establish care and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
• Behavior Monitoring: Watch for signs of stress or illness. It may take 2–6 weeks (or more) for full adjustment.
• Keep in Touch: Many rescues appreciate updates or may offer advice if challenges arise.

Can You Find Free Maine Coon Kittens?

Sometimes, but it’s rare and requires effort. Here’s where to look (and what to avoid):

Potential Sources:

• Facebook rehoming groups (search by city + “Maine Coon”).
• Local animal shelters or SPCA bulletin boards.
• Veterinary office notices or word of mouth.

Red Flags:

• “Free kitten – just pay shipping.”
• Sellers who refuse video calls.
• Anyone unwilling to let you visit the home.

Tip: Even when “free,” expect initial veterinary costs of $300–$600+ for vaccines, microchipping, spay/neuter, and health checks.

Further Reading

If you don’t have any luck adopting a Maine Coon kitten, make sure to check out my article on registered Maine Coon breeders in the United States.

I have sorted the breeders per state, to simplify the process of finding potential Maine Coon cat breeders located near to where you live.