Approved Maine Coon Rescue Centers 2024

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I adopted my Maine Coons, Mika, and Bali when they were 4 years old, via a Facebook Maine Coon Rehoming Page. While I didn’t use a Rescue Center specifically, the process made me intrigued to discover other ways to rescue these dog-like cats.

This article aims to guide potential adopters through the journey of rescuing a Maine Coon, providing useful tips, information on rescue centers, and what to expect throughout the process.

What Is A Maine Coon Rescue Center?

A Maine Coon rescue center is a specialized organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming both purebred and mixed Maine Coon cats.

These centers may operate out of a single physical location or function primarily online, coordinating foster homes and adoptions through virtual means.

They provide care for abandoned, surrendered, or stray Maine Coons, ensuring they receive necessary medical treatment, proper nutrition, and socialization.

Adopting from a Maine Coon rescue center typically involves an adoption fee, which can vary depending on the organization and the cats:

• Age
• Health
• Specific Needs

Adoption fees usually range from $100 to $400, covering essential services such as:

• Vaccinations
• Spaying/Neutering
• Microchipping
• Medical Treatment

Potential adopters should consider ongoing costs, including:

• Food
• Grooming
• Veterinary Care

These rescue centers work diligently to match Maine Coons with suitable adoptive families, offering support and guidance throughout the adoption process.

By adopting from a rescue center, you provide a loving home to a cat in need and support the ongoing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate more Maine Coons.

Understanding Maine Coon Cats

Maine Coon cats have a fascinating history and distinct characteristics that set them apart from other feline breeds.

Originating in the United States, the Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America and is the official state cat of Maine.

Many myths surround their origins, including tales of them being descendants of long-haired cats belonging to Marie Antoinette! Learn more, here.

However, the more likely story is that they result from natural selection and interbreeding between domestic short-haired cats and long-haired breeds brought over by seafarers.

Physical Traits

• Size: Maine Coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds. Males typically weigh between 18 to 22 pounds (8.2 to 10 kg), while females usually weigh between 12 to 15 pounds (5.4 to 6.8 kg).
• Coat: They have a long, thick, sem-water-resistant coat with a ruff of fur around their neck, which is well-suited to cold climates. Their fur is silky and can come in almost any color or pattern. Find your favorite color HERE!
• Tail: Their bushy tails are one of their most distinctive features, often as long as their bodies, which helps them keep warm by wrapping it around their bodies.
• Eyes: Maine Coons have large, expressive eyes that can be green, gold, or copper, and blue or odd-eyed if the cat is white.
• Ears: They have large, tufted ears, often with lynx-like tips, which help to protect them from the cold.

Personality

• Affectionate and Social: Maine Coons are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They tend to get along well with children, dogs, and other pets.
• Intelligent and Playful: They are highly intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks and play fetch. Their playful demeanor lasts well into adulthood.
• Vocal: Maine Coons are quite vocal and are known for their distinctive chirps and trills rather than the typical meows of other cats.
• Loyal: They are often described as “dog-like” in their loyalty to their owners and enjoy being involved in family activities.

Why Rescue A Maine Coon?

Adopting a Maine Coon from a rescue center rather than buying from a breeder has numerous benefits both for the cat and the new owner.

1. Saving A Life

By adopting from a rescue center, you are giving a cat a second chance at life. Many cats in shelters are there through no fault of their own and are simply looking for a loving home.

2. Health Benefits

Rescue centers often provide initial veterinary care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and health checks, ensuring the cat is in good health before adoption.

3. Cost Effective

Adoption fees from rescue centers are generally much lower than purchasing a kitten from a registered breeder. Their fees usually cover basic veterinary care, which can also be a significant saving.

4. Reducing Overpopulation

By adopting, you help reduce the number of cats in shelters and the demand for breeders, which can help combat overpopulation and unethical breeding practices.

5. Adult Cats

Adopting an adult cat means you can see their full personality and physical traits, reducing the uncertainty that comes with raising a kitten.

Maine Coon Rescue Organizations

Discover a network of dedicated Maine Coon rescue centers spanning the globe, committed to rehoming these majestic cats in need of loving homes.

United States

1. Maine Coon Rescue (MCR)

A dedicated network rescuing and rehoming Maine Coons. They work with volunteers and foster homes nationwide to provide care and placement for Maine Coons in need.

• Location: Based in Kentucky, but available at various locations across the US
• Contact: info@mainecoonrescue.net
• Email: rescue@mainecoonrescue.net

2. Purebred Cat Rescue

Specializes in rescuing and rehoming purebred cats, including Maine Coons. They provide veterinary care, foster homes, and adoption services for cats across the Midwest.

• Location: Midwest region
• Website: purebredcatrescue.org

3. East Coast Maine Coon Rescue

The East Coast Maine Coon Rescue is a comprehensive, online-based organization that combs through shelters across a variety of states on America’s East Coast.

This organization specializes in both purebred and mixed Maine Coons, and they’re dedicated to helping fanciers of this breed get connected with a forever friend!

5. Only Maine Coons Rescue

This rescue center is a New Jersey-based organization that reaches far and wide across a variety of states, including Maryland, Washington D.C., and Delaware.

They also work in portions of other states including Connecticut, Massachusetts, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York.

This shelter mostly rescues Main Coon mixes, but they also occasionally rescue purebreds, as well.

• Location: Absecon, NJ
• Email: info@omcrescue.org
• Website: Omcrescue.org

United Kingdom

1. Maine Coon Cat Club

A UK-based organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Maine Coons. They provide support and resources for Maine Coon owners and potential adopters throughout the UK.

• Location: Nationwide
• Contact: rescue@mainecooncatclub.com

2. Maine Coon Breed Society

The Maine Coon Breed Society is primarily a breeding organization, but they’re also dedicated to helping cats in need!

They provide information on Maine Coons stuck in local shelters so that people who can’t afford a Maine Coon from a breeder can instead adopt a cat in need!

• Contact: www.mainecoonbreedsociety.com

Germany

1. Maine Coon Rescue Germany

German organization specializing in Maine Coon rescues. They focus on finding suitable homes for Maine Coons and providing education about the breed.

• Contact: info@mainecoonhilfe.de

Australia

1. Australian Purebred Rescue

Focuses on the rescue and rehoming of purebred cats, including Maine Coons, in Australia. They operate with volunteers and foster homes to rehabilitate and place cats in loving environments.

• Contact: www.purebredrescueaustralia.com

Preparing For Adoption

Before embarking on the journey to adopt a Maine Coon or any cat breed, it’s essential to assess your readiness for a long-term commitment.

Cats, including Maine Coons, can live well over a decade, so ensuring you’re prepared for this commitment is paramount.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare your home and mindset for welcoming a new feline friend:

Evaluate Your Commitment

Consider the responsibilities of cat ownership, such as regular feeding, grooming, veterinary care, and companionship needs.

Maine Coons, known for their sociable nature, thrive on interaction and attention.

Prepare Your Home

Create a safe and welcoming environment for your new cat. This includes designating quiet spaces for them to retreat to, away from noisy areas or other pets if necessary.

Ensure windows and balconies are secured, and hazardous plants or substances are out of reach.

Essential Supplies

Set up necessary supplies before bringing your Maine Coon home. This includes:

• Litter Boxes: Provide at least one litter box per cat, plus an extra, ideally placed in quiet, accessible locations.
• Scratching Posts: Maine Coons enjoy scratching to maintain their claws and mark territory. Invest in sturdy, tall scratching posts and cat trees.
• High-Quality Food: Choose premium cat food appropriate for Maine Coon’s nutritional needs. My Maine Coons love these dry cat foods.
• Transitioning Smoothly: When I prepared to adopt Mika and Bali, these steps were crucial for their smooth transition into my home. Creating a predictable routine for feeding and playtime helps them settle in faster.

Here are some other Things You Need To Buy BEFORE Adopting A Maine Coon.

Ask The Rescue Centers These Questions

Here’s a detailed guide on what to inquire about and observe during your interactions with feline rescue centers:

1. Health and Medical History: Ask detailed questions about the cat’s health, including any past illnesses, vaccinations, and current medical needs. Understanding the cat’s medical history helps you prepare for any ongoing care they might need.
2. Temperament and Behavior: Inquire about the cat’s temperament and behavior. Ask how they interact with other cats, dogs, or children if applicable. Understanding their personality traits helps determine if they’ll be a good fit for your home environment.
3. Reason for Surrender: Learn the reasons why the cat was surrendered or rescued. This information provides insight into their background and any potential behavioral or health issues to be aware of.
4. Facility Conditions: During your visit or interaction, observe the cleanliness and overall condition of the rescue center. A well-maintained facility suggests a commitment to animal welfare and hygiene.
5. Staff Knowledge and Interaction: Assess the knowledge and friendliness of the staff or volunteers. They should be able to provide detailed information about the cats in their care and answer any questions you have about adoption.
6. Cat Interaction: Spend time observing how the cat interacts with staff and potential adopters. Look for signs of socialization, such as curiosity, responsiveness to attention, and comfort around people.
7. Making a Good Match: By gathering comprehensive information about the cat’s health, temperament, and environment, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your expectations and lifestyle.

The Adoption Process

Adopting a Maine Coon or any cat from a rescue center involves several steps designed to ensure both the welfare of the cat and the suitability of the adopter.

Here’s a detailed overview of the adoption process:

Application Forms

Begin by filling out an adoption application form provided by the rescue center. This form gathers basic information about your home environment, lifestyle, and experience with pets.

Interviews

Expect to participate in one or more interviews with adoption coordinators or volunteers. These interviews help assess your readiness for pet ownership and ensure that you understand the responsibilities of caring for a Maine Coon.

Home Visits

Some rescue centers may conduct home visits to evaluate your living conditions and assess if it’s a safe environment for a cat. This step ensures that your home is suitable and meets the needs of the adopted cat.

Adoption Fees

There are typically adoption fees associated with bringing a cat home from a rescue center. These fees help cover the cost of veterinary care, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and other expenses incurred by the rescue center.

Veterinary Care

Upon adoption, your new Maine Coon may already have received initial veterinary care, including vaccinations and a health check-up.

Be prepared for ongoing veterinary expenses, such as annual check-ups, flea prevention, and unexpected medical needs.

Transitioning Your Cat

Bringing your new cat home requires patience and careful planning. Create a safe space for them initially, equipped with a litter box, food and water bowls, scratching posts, and comfortable bedding.

Gradually introduce them to other areas of your home to help them adjust.

Is It Cheaper To Adopt A Maine Coon?

Adopting a Maine Coon from a rescue center typically involves several costs, which can vary based on the organization and region.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of potential adoption costs:

Adoption Fees

Adoption fees generally range from approximately $75 to $200. This fee helps cover the expenses incurred by the rescue center for the cat’s care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.

Prices around the world vary though, as in the UK I paid £450 ($593.93) for my two Maine Coon cats (Mika and Bali), in a private Maine Coon Rescue Facebook group.

Initial Veterinary Care

This includes essential medical procedures such as:

• Vaccinations: Cats are usually vaccinated against common diseases like rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (FVRCP).
• Spaying/Neutering: To prevent unwanted cat litters and promote good health.
• Microchipping: Provides permanent identification in case the cat gets lost.
• Health Check: A comprehensive health examination by a veterinarian to ensure the cat is healthy and ready for adoption.
• Deworming and Flea Treatment: Often included to address common parasites.
• Some rescue centers may also provide:
  • Temporary foster care before adoption.
  • Behavioral assessment and training, if needed.

These costs can vary widely depending on the rescue center’s policies, the cat’s age and health status, and the region’s cost of living. It’s essential to inquire about all fees and services covered during the adoption process.

If we compare these costs to that of buying a Maine Coon kitten from a Registered Maine Coon Cat Breeder, it’s easy to see why so many cat lovers want to adopt!

The average price of a Maine Coon kitten from a registered breeder is a staggering $1,000, with breeders charging anywhere up to $2,500 per kitten! WOW!!

Summary

Maine Coon rescue centers play a crucial role in providing loving homes to these majestic cats.

By opting to adopt from these centers, not only are you giving a Maine Coon a second chance at happiness, but you’re also contributing to animal welfare.

Remember, each adoption journey begins with careful consideration and preparation.

Whether you’re drawn to their gentle nature, striking appearance, or unique personality traits, rescuing a Maine Coon is a rewarding experience that enriches both your life and theirs.