If you have decided to get a cat soon, you might be comparing the Maine Coon vs regular cat before making a decision.
While all cats share some similarities, there are a lot of key differences between Maine Coons and normal cats that can make it difficult to decide.
The Maine Coon is much larger and fluffier than regular cats. They have a triple coat of semi-water-repellant fur and long tufts of fur on their paws and ears. Maine Coons tend to be friendlier, cuddlier, and much more intelligent than the average cat. They also communicate in odd trills instead of regular meows.
For those of you having a hard time choosing between a Maine Coon or a normal cat, you are not the only one!
While Maine Coons are expensive, they also have so many unique traits that regular cats do not, which makes them well worth the price to many owners.
Read on to find out whether a Maine Coon or a regular cat is the right choice for you!
Maine Coon Vs Regular Cat
Even though all domestic cats today are descended from the wildcat known as Felis silvestris, different cat breeds vary wildly from one to the next.
Most cats, however, do not have a breed at all and are instead considered either domestic longhairs or domestic shorthairs.
So, how does the magnificent Maine Coon compare to regular cats?
Here are some of the key physical differences and similarities between Maine Coons and regular cats.
Click on the link to jump straight to the subject matter of your choice:
1. Maine Coon Size Compared To Normal Cat
When comparing a Maine Coon vs regular cat size, the Maine Coon is undoubtedly much larger.
The enormous Maine Coon size can make it a bit more difficult to find litter boxes and appropriately sized cat furniture.
But in most cases, owners find the Maine Coon’s size to be a positive factor!
The average Maine Coon weight ranges between 8 and 25 pounds, while regular cats only weigh between 6 and 10 pounds on average.
The average Maine Coon height is usually between 8 and 16 inches, and the Maine Coon length typically measures 19 to 40 inches.
Here is a chart that more specifically illustrates the size differences between Maine Coons and regular cats:
| By Maine Coon Central | Maine Coon | Regular Cat |
| Weight | 8 – 25 pounds | 6 – 10 pounds |
| Height | 8 – 16 inches | 8 – 10 inches |
| Length | 19 – 40 inches | 15 – 20 inches |
| Tail Length | 12 – 18 inches | 10 – 11 inches |
2. Maine Coon Body Shape Vs Normal Cat
In a comparison of Maine Coon vs regular cat, Maine Coons are obviously bigger, but that is not the only physical difference.
Normal cats tend to have tubular bodies with limbs of medium thickness.
By comparison, the Maine Coon’s body type is closer to a cobby cat, meaning it has a thicker torso and limbs. Maine Coons also have a more rectangular appearance.
While regular cats are primarily made of soft, curved shapes, Maine Coons appear more angular, possibly due to their thicker limbs and torso.
3. Maine Coon Fur Coat Vs Regular Cat
Maine Coons are longhair cats, but even domestic longhair cats’ coats are quite different from the Maine Coon’s.
Regular longhair cats have the following two layers of fur:
- Protective outer coat
- Soft, fluffy undercoat
This is very different from the Maine Coon cat which has three fur coat layers, which include:
- One semi-water-repellant outer layer
- Two dense, plush undercoats
Maine Coons’ fur length also ranges from medium to long throughout the body. Their fur is longer on their neck and shoulders, as well as their haunches.
Maine Coons also have extra tufts of fur on the tips of their ears and on their paws.
4. Maine Coon Face Vs Regular Cat
Both Maine Coons and regular cats have wedge-shaped faces, but Maine Coon faces are more square in appearance than regular cats.
They also have a larger, more powerful muzzle and chin, as well as a wider nose that makes them look more like wild cats than domestic cats.
5. Maine Coon Eyes Vs Normal Cat
When comparing Maine Coon vs regular house cat eyes, the Maine Coon’s eyes are usually considered to be more expressive and beautiful.
Maine Coons have large, wide-set eyes that are slightly oblique, which gives them their characteristic serious expression.
Regular cats have smaller, more round eyes that are closer together.
Here are some important facts about Maine Coon eyes.
6. Maine Coon Whiskers Vs Normal Cat
The whiskers of the Maine Coon compared to normal cat whiskers are typically much longer. This is because cat whiskers are the same width as the cat’s body.
Since whiskers are so sensitive, a cat can poke its head into a space, and if its whiskers brush against the side, it will know if it is too wide to fit.
Since Maine Coons are much larger on average than most cats, their whiskers are longer, as well.
Learn more about the Maine Coon cats whiskers, in this article.
7. Maine Coon Teeth Vs Regular Cat
Maine Coon teeth vs normal cat teeth are not all that different.
While Maine Coon teeth tend to be a bit larger since these cats are larger on average in general, they have the same number and kinds of teeth as regular cats.
Just like normal cats, Maine Coon’s teeth are also prone to periodontal disease if they are not brushed regularly.
Learn the most important Maine Coon cat teeth facts, in this article.
8. Maine Coon Tail Vs Regular Cat
The tail of a Maine Coon vs regular house cat tail is much longer.
Maine Coons have incredibly long tails that are very large and fluffy. This is why!
The tail appears narrower at the base, and its long fur flows outward so that its tail looks almost like a big feather.
Maine Coon tails measure, on average, between 12 and 18 inches. Regular cat tails, however, usually only measure between 10 and 11 inches long (source 1).
9. Maine Coon Paws Vs Normal Cat
Maine Coons have significantly larger paws than normal cats.
This difference is even more apparent in kittenhood when the Maine Coon has yet to grow into its enormous paws!
While some think the Maine Coon’s huge paws are simply due to its long, thick fur, their paws are significantly larger and wider even without fur.
This is because the Maine Coon originated in the snowy, cold climate of Maine.
They developed wide paws like snowshoes so they could more easily traverse through the snow. Their big paws also made it easier to catch and grasp prey, like this.
Sailors and farmers in the 1800s found the Maine Coon’s paws to be so helpful, in fact, that they preferred polydactyl Maine Coons (which means Maine Coons who have extra toes).
Today, many breeders have bred out polydactyl toes, but there are some breeders who specialize in polydactyl Maine Coons.
10. Maine Coon Ears Vs Regular Cat
When comparing the Maine Coon vs house cat, one of the most distinctive Maine Coon physical features is its ears.
Maine Coons have incredibly large ears with wide bases and distinctive tufts of fur on the tip of each ear, known as Lynx tips.
Even regular longhair cats do not usually have tufts of fur on the ends, and their ears tend to be shorter and narrower both in general size as well as proportion.
Like their paws, Maine Coon ears tend to appear even bigger during kittenhood until the cat finally grows into them.
Personality Traits Of Maine Coon Cats Vs Normal Cats
Maine Coons and regular cats are easy to tell apart in appearance, but did you know that the character traits of Maine Coon cats are just as distinctive, if not more so?
When comparing Maine Coon vs domestic cat personalities, Maine Coons tend to be:
- Much Friendlier
- Gentler
- More Intelligent
Part of this can be owed to the Maine Coon’s natural temperament, but personality also plays a role.
While one’s temperament is determined by biology, one’s personality forms based on our environment and personal history.
Some regular cats found at shelters have chaotic and tumultuous kittenhood.
By comparison, the majority of Maine Coons are raised by loving breeders in large catteries, where they are socialized to other cats, humans, and often dogs from a young age.
Cats which grow up in a safe environment are more likely to be social, friendly, and accepting of new or strange circumstances.
Cats who grew up in a violent, dangerous, or scary environment tend to be warier and more resistant to change.
Maine Coon Temperament Vs Regular Cat
While the fact many Maine Coons are raised in catteries can account for their unique personalities to some degree, their overall temperament tends to be very different from regular cats.
Here are some aspects of the Maine Coon’s temperament and how they compare to regular cats:
Social
Maine Coons are typically more social and friendly than regular cats.
They are more likely to become fast friends with strangers, and they also tend to get along well with other cats and dogs, while regular cats are generally more reserved and wary.
Territorial
Maine Coons are, on average, less territorial than most cats. This is because they tend to view other humans and animals as potential friends rather than threats.
If you notice territorial behavior in your Maine Coon, you should consider providing your cat with more private space or getting a larger house or apartment.
Independent
While Maine Coons are capable of occupying themselves, they are generally less independent than the average cat.
They spend more time around their owners and require more playtime.
While they are usually not considered clingy, if you are looking for a cat that’s low maintenance, then you should avoid getting a Maine Coon.
But, are Maine Coon cats high maintenance? Read the article to find out!
Patient
While most cats would rather live on the street than be dressed in doll’s clothes, the Maine Coons gentle and patient disposition means they often make ideal companions for children.
They do not mind joining tea parties or being rolled around in a stroller, and they are so laid back that they are less stressed by major changes such as moving or getting a new pet.
Is it ok to dress a Maine Coon? Find out here!
Devoted
The Maine Coon is an incredibly loyal breed.
These faithful cats tend to choose one owner who they bond with most closely, but they are still loving to all of their family members.
Unlike the average cat, Maine Coons tend to follow their owners around from room to room.
Intelligent
The Maine Coon is considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds in the world.
They are much smarter than the average cat and can be trained to perform tricks, go on walks, or play fetch!
Here are a few tricks you can teach your Maine Coon cat:
- Teach your Maine Coon to play fetch
- How to train your Maine Coon cat
- Teach your Maine Coon to walk on a leash
- How to toilet train your Maine Coon cat
These large cats require more interactive toys such as motorized mice or puzzles, and they also need more interesting and challenging furniture to climb, or else they are prone to boredom.
Playful
Maine Coons also tend to be much more playful and active than regular cats.
Since these cats became prized by farmers and sailors as working cats in the 1800s, this breed is no stranger to a hard day’s work!
Since most Maine Coons are pets nowadays, they spend most of their energy running around and pretending to hunt.
Maine Coons tend to play rougher than regular cats, due to their activity levels and size.
They tend to need more exciting and durable toys.
These are my favorite Maine Coon cat toys which have stood the test of time with our three Maine Coon cats.
Maine Coon Price Vs Normal Cat
Perhaps the biggest reason why someone might choose to get a regular cat over a Maine Coon is the price.
As beautiful and gentle as Maine Coons are, their appearance and personality come at a steep price.
Here is a table illustrating just how different the Maine Coon price is from regular cats:
| By Maine Coon Central | Maine Coon | Regular Cat |
| Kitten | $1,000 – $2,500 + | $50 to $200 |
| Adult | $1,000 – $2,500 + | $50 to $200 |
| Adoption | $100 – $250 | $100 – $250 |
While you can adopt a Maine Coon, finding a Maine Coon at a shelter or even a Maine Coon rescue can be a long and difficult process.
Of course, if you are determined to get your dream cat but you cannot afford it, it might be well worth combing local shelters until you find a Maine Coon!
Alternatively, take a look at your local Maine Coon Rescue Centre.
Maine Coon Lifespan Vs Normal Cat
The Maine Coon’s lifespan lasts, on average, between 12 and 15 years.
The lifespan of a regular cat is about 13 to 14 years, which is not much different.
However, since Maine Coon health problems are a bit more predictable than the average cat, they are less likely to have unexpected life-threatening health conditions (source 1).
Maine Coon Health Vs Normal Cat
Many cat breeds are quite unhealthy because breeders rely on inbreeding to preserve unique traits such as interesting coat colors or textures.
Since the Maine Coon originated naturally in the state of Maine, however, they are considered much healthier than the average cat breed.
There are a few genetic conditions that Maine Coons are prone to, although responsible breeders screen for these conditions before allowing cats to produce more offspring.
Regular cats, however, are much less predictable, and listing all the possible ailments or genetic conditions they can have would be impossible.
Here is a list of the conditions that Maine Coon cats are prone to:
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, also known as HCM, is the most dangerous and deadly disease associated with Maine Coons.
This genetic condition causes the walls of the cat’s heart to slowly thicken over time.
Sadly, this condition is incurable and always leads to death.
Thankfully, this genetic condition can be tested for, so responsible Maine Coon breeders only breed cats that are fully negative for HCM.
Learn more about this Maine Coon health issue, in this article.
2. Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy, also known as SMA, causes degeneration of the muscles around the base of the cat’s spine.
Symptoms of this condition appear as early as a few months old, causing a swaying gait to a cat’s hind legs.
Eventually, as the muscles deteriorate, the affected cat will have severe mobility issues and will likely need some extra stairs and stools to help it get onto the:
- Couch
- Cat Tree
- Favorite resting place
3. Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic Kidney Disease, also known as PKD, causes cysts to form in the affected cat’s kidneys.
In milder cases, you might never notice that your cat has cysts, and it may die due to natural causes unrelated to the condition.
In other cases, however, these cysts can grow large enough to impact the kidney’s functioning, sometimes leading to death.
Learn more about Maine Coon PKD here.
4. Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency is a condition that complicates the production of Pyruvate Kinase, an enzyme that is vital to providing energy to the body’s red blood cells.
Since the cat’s red blood cells’ lifespan is greatly reduced, Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency causes anemia which can lead to:
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Pale Gums
- Weight Loss
Mild forms of PKDef can be managed, but more severe forms can lead to death.
Learn more about Maine Coon Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency, in this article.
5. Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a chronic, painful condition that greatly reduces a cat’s mobility.
Hip dysplasia is caused by a malformed hip or femur, which leads to grinding against the ball-and-socket joint as the cat moves.
Over time, this grinding will cause the joint to become loose, and the cat will have a difficult time walking.
While the only way to treat this condition fully is with invasive surgery, physical therapy, and low-impact exercise can slow this condition.
Many cats with hip dysplasia still live long and happy lives, though they usually need help climbing or jumping.
Here are the key symptoms of Maine Coon hip dysplasia.
Are Maine Coons The Friendliest Cats?
When comparing differences between Maine Coon and regular cat behavior, the Maine Coon is considered much friendlier.
While the average cat is still quite friendly, Maine Coons are so social and easygoing that they tend to make friends more quickly and easily than most cats.
Not only are Maine Coons great at making friends with humans, but they also love to make friends with other cats and even dogs!
Are Maine Coons More Vocal?
Some cat breeds are known to be nearly silent, while others are much louder.
When it comes to regular cats, most of them communicate with medium-loud meows, and they tend to be vocal when they want attention or food.
Maine Coons are about as vocal as regular cats, but in their own unique way.
Instead of communicating in meows, Maine Coons tend to:
- Chirp
- Trill
- Chatter
- Squeak
Their voice is usually a bit quieter than the average cat, but they communicate about as often.
They tend to vocalize when they want something like attention or playtime, but they also occasionally squeak back to their owners in “conversation.”
What Makes A Maine Coon Cat Different?
Maine Coons are wildly different from regular cats in many ways, but there are a few Maine Coon traits that are especially unique.
Here are the three main reasons why Maine Coons are so different from most cats:
Doglike Personality
Maine Coons are often called the dogs of the cat world due to their open, devoted, and intelligent personality.
They like to play fetch and go on walks, and they are often more outgoing than the average cat, which tends to be reserved and subtle.
Love Of Water
It is no secret that most cats hate water, but for some bizarre reason, most Maine Coons love it!
In fact, some Maine Coons love water so much that they even learn to turn on faucets just so they can play in it!
This also means that Maine Coons often like to swim in a backyard pool or join their owners in the bath!
Unique Voice
Cats are so famous for meowing that the Ancient Egyptian word for cat is “Mau.”
Maine Coons, however, rarely meow. Instead, they have a unique, birdlike voice and tend to communicate through squeaks, chirps, trills, and warbles.
Caring For A Maine Coon Vs Regular Cat
Even though Maine Coons are highly sought after for their personality and appearance, do you have what it takes to care for them?
Here are the differences between caring for a Maine Coon vs a regular cat:
1. Diet
Both Maine Coons and regular cats require a diet made up of:
- 35% to 50% protein
- 20% to 30% fat
- Maximum 12% carbohydrates
Protein strengthens the immune system and also helps a growing cat gain muscle mass.
Fats, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids provide a solid source of energy. They are also essential to keeping a cat’s skin and fur hydrated and shiny.
Carbs provide energy as well, but too many carbs serve as empty calories that can lead to weight gain or, if the cat is not getting enough fat and protein, malnutrition.
Regular cats and Maine Coons require between 25 to 34 calories per pound of body weight a day.
This means, of course, that most Maine Coons need more calories than the average cat, not only because they are much bigger, but because they are more active.
A Maine Coon is more likely to need 30 to 34 calories per pound of body weight a day than a regular cat.
Maine Coon dietary needs tend to be more difficult to meet since they are so large and active.
If you want to know what do you feed a Maine Coon, you will need to provide a mix of:
- High-Quality Dry Food
- High-Quality Wet Food
The best dry food for Maine Coon kittens has lots of protein and hardly any carbs.
The best-wet food for Maine Coon kittens is soft mousse from brands like Royal Canin or Hill’s Science Diet. Alternatively, these products are great!
Once you find the best food for Maine Coon kittens, you will need to provide an endless amount of dry food as well as portions of wet food three to four times a day.
My favorite dry foods are these!
As the kitten grows, you can start feeding wet food just twice a day. After about a year, you will only provide dry food twice a day, as well.
Raising Maine Coon kittens vs regular kittens means you will have to provide more food.
Although all cats require high-quality food with lots of protein, it is even more critical for Maine Coon cats.
Since they are so large and active, they are more prone to malnourishment, and their growth can be stunted if they do not get enough protein (sources 1,2,3,4,5).
2. Grooming
When caring for Maine Coon kittens, you will have your hands full with all that fur!
During kittenhood, their fur will be softer and finer, but they will still be more prone to tangles and mats than regular cats, even domestic longhairs!
When comparing Maine Coon kitten vs regular kitten grooming requirements, Maine Coon kittens need to be brushed more often, ideally with these grooming brushes.
You may also need to trim the extra tufts of fur on their paws if they tend to get tangled or dirty. Here’s how to do this!
The long fur on their haunches can collect clumps from the litterbox, so many owners opt to trim the hair beneath their tail to avoid trailing litter across the house.
Both regular cats and Maine Coons should have their claws trimmed every few weeks if the cats do not have access to scratching posts, or scratching cat trees.
You should also gently wipe out their ears with a damp cloth once a month or so, and all cats need to be brushed at least once a week.
Conclusion
When comparing Maine Coon vs regular cat traits, the Maine Coon is much more popular due to its enormous size and lovable personality.
While the Maine Coon cat price is so steep that many owners cannot afford them, the personality characteristics of Maine Coon cats make them hard to resist.
Unlike regular cats, Maine Coons tend to be more patient, loving, friendly, and intelligent.
However, the Maine Coon’s dietary and grooming needs can be challenging to meet, so they may not be the best option if you are looking for a cat that’s relatively low maintenance.