European Maine Coon Breeders: What You Need To Know

Europe is rich with exceptional Maine Coon breeders, from the UK to Eastern Europe, each offering unique breeding styles and pedigrees.

When searching across borders, it’s essential to understand registration systems, legal requirements, and health protocols to ensure you bring home a well-adjusted, healthy kitten.

Disclaimer and Warning

Maine Coon Central makes no representations or warranties with respect to the breeding or business practices of any of the companies listed within this article. 

Maine Coon Central strongly recommends that an individual’s transactions with breeders be undertaken with the same caution and due diligence, as would be devoted to any important business matter.

Key Differences When Buying In Europe

If you’ve been used to the American way, you’ll quickly find that the process of buying a Maine Coon in Europe is slightly different.

1. Registry Affiliation

European breeders often operate under multiple registries:

• GCCF (UK)
• TICA (International)
• FIFe, WCF (continental Europe)

These registrations enforce strict standards for health, pedigree, and breeding practices.

2. Health Testing And Genetic Standards

Most breeders test queens and studs yearly via genetic panels and echocardiograms (HCM), and hip/dysplasia X‑rays.

These are non-negotiable if you’re importing a kitten from breeders like Mythos (Essex) or Coonland (Sweden).

3. Breed Standards Variations

European Maine Coons tend to have more natural, less exaggerated features compared to some American show lines, with a lower prevalence of hip dysplasia. 

If you prefer a more traditional look, European lines may suit you.

4. Import And Export Rules

Importing from the EU to the US or vice versa requires:

• Five-generation pedigrees (for GCCF)
• Genetic health test results (HCM, SMA, PKDef, etc.)
• Microchip, rabies vaccine, and a pet passport
• Minimum age: 4 months with a 21-day rabies wait.

5. Strong Home-Rearing And Socialization Focus

Kittens grow up with daily social triggers:

• Cat shows
• Visitors
• Harness training

This creates well-rounded, fearless personalities. For example, Auracoonz kittens learn leash walking and indoor-outdoor exposure from an early age.

Breeders In Europe

Here are some breeders located in Europe:

🇬🇧 Mythos Maine Coons (Essex, UK)

Highly regarded TICA & GCCF-registered cattery. All breeding cats are negative for major genetic conditions and are brought to cat shows.

Show-quality, emphasizes pedigrees and annual echocardiograms.

🇬🇧 Auracoonz / Auracatz (Norfolk, UK)

Family-run, registered with TICA, GCCF, FIFe, WCF. Breeding cats live indoors, are outdoor-harness trained, and tested annually for HCM, PKDef, SMA, FIV/FeLV.

🇩🇪 Maine Coon Heaven (Germany)

Known for excellent temperament and top-tier health screening. Kits come with documentation and vet certificates, and health documentation.

Registered with FIFe and WCF.

🇸🇪 Coonland (Sweden)

Prioritizing strong genetics and social kittens raised in home environments.

Registered with TICA, FIFe.

Kittens raised in a family home environment follow social, strong genetic programs.

🇫🇷 Royal Maine Coon (France)

Collaborates with vets and geneticists to ensure longevity through health testing.

Registered with FIFe

🇮🇹 EuroCoons (Italy)

Breeds at a slower pace, feeds balanced raw diets, and handles health checks in-cattery (even snips/spays).

Registered with TICA, FIFe.

What To Look For

You should always vet the breeder thoroughly before buying a Maine Coon kitten. Here are a few factors you need to check:

To review the complete guide to Maine Coon Breeders In the United Kingdom, click this link to view my FULL article.

Smart Tips Before You Buy

Here are some brilliant tips to consider, before buying a Maine Coon kitten:

Visit (Or Virtually Inspect) The Cattery

Check the kitten and parents’ behavior, see healthy living conditions, and ask for a live video if remote.

Confirm Health Via Certified Tests

Echo scan, hip/PDA X-ray, DNA panels – all reviewed directly with breeders and vet-signed.

Compare Pedigrees

Look for 3-5 generations, champion titles, and proof of valid registry lineage.

Inquire About Temperament And Training

Ask if kittens are exposed to grooming, people, other pets, and early travel crates (which ease future crate experiences).

Prepare For The Import Journey (If Applicable)

A robust pet passport with records, microchip, and certification is as vital as the kitten’s vet visit upon arrival.

Plan For Arrival

Create a calm environment. Find a local vet to continue vaccinations and make gradual home adjustments.

Pro Tips From Experienced Breeders

• Reserve Early: Most litters sell fast, so apply months ahead.
• Visit (or FaceTime): In-person visits offer insight into brood health and behavior.
• Vet First Week: Book a check-up ASAP to confirm health and schedule care.
• Prepare Bigger Kitten Gear: Maine Coons grow fast, so get a roomy litter tray and tall cat tree.
• Follow Transition Advice: Respect breeder guidance on diet and social boundaries.

Why Buying in Europe Is Worth It

• Tradition meets quality: Access to pedigree lines not available in North America
• Less exaggerated traits: European lines generally feel more natural in appearance.
• Career breeders with longevity in mind: Many multi-generational catteries with proven health practices.
• Global recognition: Registries like GCCF, FIFe, and WCF support export legitimacy and pedigree continuity.

Importing From Europe

What you should know:

• International Paperwork: Pet Passport, microchip, rabies vaccine, 5-generation pedigree, and veterinary export certificate.
• Timing Is Everything: Kittens must be ≥12 weeks old, microchipped, vaccinated, and follow a 21-day rabies wait period.
• Cost Considerations: Shipping crates, airline fees, vet checks, passport charges, and customs border clearance (typically under €500)
• Quarantine and Vet Visits: Some countries (e.g., UK post-Brexit) may require post-arrival vet checks or quarantine.