Maine Coon Health And Common Issues Hub

Maine Coons are generally healthy, long-lived cats, but like all large purebred breeds, they are predisposed to several genetic and lifestyle-related conditions. Understanding these risks helps owners recognise early warning signs, manage symptoms, and give their Maine Coon the best possible quality of life.

This health hub brings together the most important medical topics – from heart disease and joint disorders to digestive issues, dental health, skin conditions, respiratory problems, and genetic risks, with links to deeper specialist articles for owners who need more detailed advice.

Core Maine Coon Health Overview

Maine Coons typically live 12-15 years, though many reach 16+ with good preventative care, balanced nutrition, regular grooming, and early intervention when symptoms arise.

The breed’s large size, dense coat, and strong working-cat background mean that some medical issues show up differently in Maine Coons compared to other cats.

In this hub, you’ll find concise explanations of each major health category, plus links to the full-length guides already available on mainecooncentral.com.

Key categories include:

• Genetic diseases (HCM, SMA, PKD)
• Joint disorders (hip dysplasia, patella luxation, arthritis)
• Heart and respiratory problems
• Digestive issues and food intolerances
• Skin, coat, and allergy problems
• Cancer risks
• Dental health

Your goal as an owner is not to panic, but to stay informed, so that issues can be identified early.

Read the main overview article:
• Top 7 Maine Coon Health Issues

Genetic Conditions in Maine Coons (HCM, SMA, PKD)

Genetic screening is one of the most powerful tools for preventing inherited disease.

Maine Coons are predisposed to several hereditary issues that responsible breeders test for.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

The most common inherited heart disease in Maine Coons. It causes the heart walls to thicken, restricting blood flow and leads to heart failure if untreated.

Common early signs include:

• Rapid breathing
• Lethargy
• Exercise intolerance
• Collapsing episodes

Full article:
• Maine Coon Heart Problems
• The Silent Threat Of Maine Coon Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

A neuromuscular disease causing weakness in the hind legs. It is not painful, but it affects mobility.

Full article:
• Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Unveiling The Secrets

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Causes kidney cysts that worsen over time. Early detection helps prevent progression.

Full article:
• 8 Symptoms Of Polycystic Kidney Disease In Cats

Joint & Mobility Problems

Large, heavy cats are naturally prone to joint problems, especially as they age.

Maine Coons may experience:

Hip Dysplasia

A malformation of the hip joint causes pain, arthritis, or difficulty jumping.

Full article:
• Maine Coon Hip Dysplasia: Everything You Need To Know

Patella Luxation

A kneecap that slips out of place. Often causes intermittent lameness or hopping.

Full article:
• Patella Luxation In Cats: Symptoms | Treatment

Arthritis

Common in older or overweight Maine Coons.

Full article:
• 9 Signs Of Maine Coon Arthritis

Joint Problems (General Overview)

• Painful Maine Coon Joint Problems

Digestive, Stomach & Food-Related Issues

Maine Coons can develop digestive issues triggered by intolerances, infections, or stress.

Common Symptoms

• Chronic diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Gas and bloating
• Poor appetite
• Sudden weight loss

Specialist Articles

• Genius Hacks Fix Maine Coon Diarrhea FAST!
• Include THESE Ingredients In Maine Coon Raw Food Diet
• Bottomless Bellies: How Much Do Maine Coon Cats Really Eat?
• How Much Do Maine Coon Kittens Eat?

Skin, Coat & Allergy Problems

Maine Coons have a thick, multi-layered coat that can hide skin issues. Allergies and coat disorders are extremely common.

Common Issues

• Fleas and flea allergies
• Food sensitivities leading to skin irritation
• Oily fur
• Dandruff
• Hair thinning
• Tail alopecia
• Seasonal shedding problems

Specialist Articles

• Dangerous Maine Coon Cat Allergies
• Dangerous Causes Of Maine Coon Hair Loss
• 7 Reasons Why Your Maine Coons Fur Has Become Oily
• 7 Causes Of Maine Coon Tail Thinning
• Causes Of Crazy Maine Coon Shedding & How To STOP It!

Respiratory & Breathing Problems

Although not the most common issue, respiratory difficulties in Maine Coons can signal serious underlying diseases.

Possible Causes

• Asthma
• Heart disease (HCM)
• Lungworm
• Allergies
• Obesity
• Viral infections

Specialist Articles

• Causes Of Heavy Breathing In Maine Coons
• 7 Hidden Dangers Behind Maine Coons Breathing Heavily
• 11 Signs Of Lungworm In Cats
• Maine Coon Wheezing Or Coughing? How To Spot Asthma Before It’s Too Late!

Neurological Disorders

Seizures or neurological abnormalities require immediate veterinary care.

• Maine Coon Cat Seizures
• The Hidden Warning Sign Most Owners Miss When Their Maine Coon Has A Seizure…

Cancer Risks in Maine Coons

Maine Coons can develop:

• Lymphoma
• Oral squamous cell carcinoma
• Skin cancer (in white cats)
• Bone cancers (rare)

Full articles:
• 5 Ways To Prevent Maine Coon Cancer
• Maine Coon Mouth Cancer

Dental & Oral Health

Dental disease is extremely common – more than 70% of Maine Coons show signs by age three.

Full guides:
• Maine Coon Teeth Problems
• Maine Coon Tooth Loss

Preventative Health Care Checklist

To maintain long-term health, owners should prioritise:

• Annual or biannual vet check-ups
• Weight monitoring
• Dental care at home
• Monthly flea/worming programs
• A diet high in animal protein
• Early genetic screening, if possible
• Regular coat and skin checks
• Watching for changes in behaviour or appetite

Maine Coon Health FAQs

How common is heart disease in Maine Coons?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common inherited condition, which is why responsible breeders test for it.

Why is my Maine Coon breathing heavily?
Heavy breathing can indicate stress, obesity, asthma, heart disease, or lungworm. Sudden breathing changes require urgent veterinary advice.

Do Maine Coons get more digestive issues than other cats?
Some do, especially those with food intolerances or sensitive stomachs. Diet plays a major role in digestive health.

At what age do Maine Coons develop joint problems?
Arthritis or hip dysplasia symptoms often appear between 3-7 years, but early mild signs can begin sooner in genetically predisposed cats.

Are Maine Coons prone to cancer?
Certain cancers (oral, lymphoma, skin cancer in pale cats) are more common than average, but early detection improves outcomes.