Top 7 Maine Coon Health Issues

Although Maine Coon cats are one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide, renowned for their large size and friendly nature, they’re not immune to a variety of health problems.

I’ve owned three Maine Coons, Pippin, Bali, and Mika over the last 12 years, and have found this hardy cat breed isn’t without its health issues. Buying the correct pet insurance is highly advisable – its better to be prepared.

In this article, I will highlight the most common Maine Coon cat health problems, identify the symptoms owners should watch out for, and explain the treatment options available.

Understanding Maine Coon Health

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest and most iconic cat breeds in North America, known for its impressive size, tufted ears, bushy tail, and gentle, friendly demeanor.

Originating in the state of Maine, where they were valued as working cats on farms and ships, Maine Coons have developed a reputation for being resilient and adaptable.

Their robust health is partly attributed to their evolution in the harsh New England climate, where only the strongest and most resilient cats survived. Despite this, certain health issues are more prevalent within the breed.

Unfortunately, these loveable cats do have some breed-specific vulnerabilities due to inherited traits. The most common Maine Coon health issues are:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
• Hip Dysplasia
• Stomatitis
• Periodontal Disease
• Obesity

Common Health Problems In Maine Coons

1. Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly, leading to joint instability and Maine Coon Arthritis over time. This condition results in ball and socket disclocation.

The disease is characterized by gradual deterioration and ultimate loss of hip joint functions. It is evident when a kitten reaches 4 months old, but is more commonly associated with older cats.

This condition is relatively common in Maine Coons (particularly the female of the species) due to their large size and genetic predisposition.

The disease is not considered life-threatening, but severe cases can lead to paralysis.

Studies suggest Maine Coon hip dysplasia health problems affect 18% of the Maine Coon population (source 1).

Breeders are advised to screen their breeding cats for hip dysplasia, even if their cats show no outward signs of the disease. This is because this condition is a hereditary disease passed down by affected parents.

Symptoms

The key symptoms include:

• Difficulty Jumping
• Limping
• Reluctant to jump, run or climb
• Signs of pain or stiffness, especially after exercise
• Less physically active
• Grating sounds when the cat moves
• Reduced thigh muscle mass
• Cat finds it difficult to get up

Early signs of cat hip dysplasia:

• Joint laxity or looseness
• Hip joint pain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a veterinarian performing physical examinations and X-rays to assess the hip joint’s structure and function.

X-rays can reveal the degree of dysplasia and any associated joint changes.

Treatment & Management

• Weight management to reduce stress on the joints
• Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
• Pain management with medications

My full guide to Maine Coon Hip Dysplasia goes into greater depth and will teach you how to help your cat.

In severe cases, surgical options such as hip replacement or femoral head osteotomy may be considered.

Sadly, my Maine Coon (Pippin) had first-hand experience of this painful condition, so I’ve shared my knowledge of what I learned.

2. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common heart condition where the heart muscle thickens, negatively affecting the heart’s efficiency levels.

HCM makes it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively and can cause sudden death in cats.

According to Cornell University:

“Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most commonly diagnosed cardiac disease in cats”.

It is not known what causes this Maine Coon health problem, however, researchers suspect a genetic component is involved since this disease only affects cat breeds where heart gene mutations are present.

Symptoms

Identifying hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is difficult since many cats with this condition show no signs of sickness. HCM can be asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage.

Although subtle, symptoms may include:

• Lethargy
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Occasional fainting spells

Additionally, a Maine Coon suffering from HCM often has some of the following health conditions:

• Blood clots in the heart
• Thromboembolism
• Acute hind limb pain or paralysis
• Rapid heartbeat
• Arrhythmias (heart beats irregularly, too slowly, or too rapidly 
• Weak pulse

Diagnosis

HCM is diagnosed through veterinary examinations, including echocardiograms (heart ultrasound) and genetic testing. These tests help assess the heart’s structure and identify abnormalities.

The prognosis for this particular disease varies significantly, though it is thought that certain treatments can improve the cat’s overall quality of life considerably.

Treatment & Management

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving the cat’s quality of life. This may include:

• Medications such as beta-blockers or diuretics
• Lifestyle changes like reduced physical exertion
• Regular veterinary monitoring to track the condition’s progression

Here’s my Complete Guide To Maine Coon Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy so you can identify and stay on top of this frightening Maine Coon cat health issue.

3. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a hereditary genetic disorder that causes the progressive loss of spinal cord motor neurons, leading to muscle wasting and weakness.

SMA is specific to Maine Coons and is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. It may shorten the lifespan of your Maine Coon kitten.

The disease is not thought to be fatal nor painful but will cause weakened muscle development. It occurs when there is a loss of motor neurons in a cat’s lower spinal cord and muscle deterioration in its hindlimbs.

SMA is characterized by a cat’s progressive instability, unsteady gait, and posture abnormalities.

Maine Coon kittens with SMA can lead normal, happy lives, provided they are kept indoors since their mental functions remain completely normal. Owners should not let kittens or cats with this condition outside since they require a higher level of care.

When purchasing an expensive Maine Coon kitten, ask your cat breeder for evidence that their breeding cats are free of this genetic defect.

Symptoms

If your Maine Coon kitten has spinal muscular atrophy, symptoms will show as early as 3-4 months of age.

By 5-6 months of age, a kitten with this condition will find it difficult to jump onto furniture and may appear somewhat clumsy when jumping down from higher surfaces.

As the condition progresses, affected cats may have difficulty performing routine activities because the kitten might be too weak in their pelvic limbs to easily jump up and down.

Kittens suffering from spinal muscular atrophy will lose muscle mass in their hindquarters.

Maine Coons with spinal muscular atrophy present the following symptoms:

• Muscle weakness (particularly in the hind legs)
• Difficulty climbing or jumping
• Abnormal gait
• The rear end of the kitten sways as they walk
• A kitten’s posture will appear abnormal
• Fine muscular tremors and fasciculations

Diagnosis

Genetic testing can identify carriers of the SMA gene. Veterinary examination and observation of symptoms also aid in diagnosis.

Treatment & Management

There is no cure for SMA. Management focuses on supportive care to maintain quality of life, such as providing a safe and accessible environment for mobility and regular check-ups to monitor the condition.

Here is my full A-Z Guide On Maine Coon Cat Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys, which can impair kidney function over time.

Tthese cysts will increase in size, at varying rates. Most grow slowly and are not usually evident until a Maine Coon reaches seven years old.

If any of these pockets of fluid grow too large though, they may impact the cat’s kidney functions, resulting in kidney failure (source 1).

Polycystic kidney disease is caused by an autosomal dominant gene abnormality. Cats only need one parent to be infected with the defective gene, to inherit PKD.

In fact, without DNA testing it may not even be evident that a breeding cat is carrying the defective gene at all, since no signs or symptoms may be visible

Symptoms

• Increased thirst and urination
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

As the disease progresses, kidney failure can develop, leading to more severe symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves ultrasounds to detect cysts in the kidneys and genetic testing to confirm the presence of PKD.

Treatment & Management

While there is no cure, PKD management involves:

• Maintaining hydration
• Following a special diet to support kidney function
• Regular veterinary care to monitor the progression of the disease

This is what I’ve learned about Polycystic Kidney Disease, I hope it helps your Maine Coon cat.

5. Obesity

Obesity in Maine Coons can result from overfeeding, lack of exercise, or metabolic issues. Their large size can make weight management particularly challenging.

Hands up! Mika, my 6-year-old Maine Coon cat has gotten a little chubby and I’ve recently changed his food to the low-calorie version of this urinary food.

Symptoms

• Excessive weight gain
• Difficulty moving
• Reluctance to play or exercise

Obesity can also exacerbate other health issues, such as diabetes or joint problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made through physical examination and evaluation of the cat’s weight and body condition score.

Treatment & Management

Management includes adjusting the cat’s diet to control calorie intake, increasing physical activity, and providing enrichment to keep the cat active.

Regular monitoring and consultations with a veterinarian can help maintain a healthy weight.

Not sure if your cat is overweight? Here are 5 Signs That Your Maine Coon Needs To Lose Weight.

6. Stomatitis

Feline stomatitis is an inflammation of the cat’s gums and mouth, causing significant discomfort and affecting a Maine Coon’s ability to eat.

It affects both male and female Maine Coon cats and is characterized by painful mouth ulcers.

Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating
• Loss of appetite
• Inflamed and swollen gums
• Excessive drooling
• Behavioral changes due to oral pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pawing at the face or mouth
• Dropping food
• Messy coat of fur
• Yelping when they eat food

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on oral examination and may involve dental X-rays to assess the extent of the inflammation and any underlying issues.

Treatment & Management

• Dental cleaning
• Medications to reduce inflammation and pain
• Possibly extraction of affected teeth

Maintaining good dental hygiene and regular veterinary dental check-ups can help prevent recurrence. Don’t forget to BRUSH your cats teeth!!

7. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease an extremely common health condition, also known as ‘gum disease’. It is made up of three stages:

• Halitosis
• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis

The disease is characterized by inflammation of the tissue around a cat’s teeth, otherwise known as the periodontium. It is commonly caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar.

Disease symptoms must NEVER be overlooked, since periodontal disease may lead to kidney and heart valve conditions.

Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Difficulty eating
• Loose teeth

Periodontal disease can lead to more severe health problems if left untreated.

Prevention & Management

Regular dental care is essential. This includes brushing your cat’s teeth, providing dental treats or toys, and scheduling regular veterinary dental cleanings.

Early intervention can prevent severe periodontal issues and maintain overall oral health.

Here’s everything you need to know about Maine Coon Teeth, Periodontal Disease and Stomatitis

Three stages of Periodontal Disease

1. Halitosis

Feline halitosis, commonly known as bad breath in cats, is an unpleasant odor coming from a cat’s mouth. While a slight odor is normal, especially after eating, persistent or severe bad breath can indicate underlying health issues.

The most common cause of feline halitosis is poor dental hygiene, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup.

This, in turn, can cause periodontal disease, gingivitis, or infections in the mouth, all of which can contribute to bad breath.

2. Gingivitis

Gingivitis in cats is inflammation of the gums, and it’s one of the earliest stages of dental disease.

It happens when plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your cat’s teeth. If it isn’t cleaned off regularly, that plaque hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and causing them to become inflamed.

If you’ve ever noticed your cat’s gums looking red, swollen, or even bleeding a little when they eat or yawn, that’s likely gingivitis.

You might also notice that your cat:

• Has bad breath
• Is drooling more than usual
• Has a decreased appetite because their mouth hurts

The good news is that gingivitis is treatable, especially if caught early. Regular brushing of your cat’s teeth, providing dental treats, and getting professional cleanings from your vet can make a big difference.

Left untreated, though, gingivitis can lead to more serious issues like periodontal disease, which can be painful and harder to manage.

3. Periodontitis

The final stage of periodontal disease is periodontitis.

Cat periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is left untreated. It goes beyond just gum inflammation.

Periodontitis affects the structures that support the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and even the bones that hold the teeth in place.

As the disease progresses, the buildup of plaque and tartar pushes the gums away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can thrive.

This leads to infection, and as the body tries to fight it, the tissues and bone that support the teeth start to break down.

If not treated, this can result in loose teeth, severe pain, and eventually, tooth loss.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, while Maine Coons are known for their strong and hardy nature, they do have their share of health concerns.

Being aware of issues like hip dysplasia, heart conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, spinal muscular atrophy, kidney disease, obesity, and dental problems is crucial for any Maine Coon owner.

Regular vet visits and early detection are your best tools in keeping these issues in check.