27 Honest Pros And Cons Of Maine Coon Cats
There’s more to owning one of these beautiful cats than you might first expect, so I’m going to spill the beans on what other Maine Coon owners just aren’t telling you!
So, hold tight! These pros and cons of Maine Coon cats might just change your mind about wanting to buy a Maine Coon kitten.
Despite their flaws, this former wild cat WILL lure you in even if you don’t want to be, as this amazing breed has an uncanny ability to captivate pet owner hearts!
Maine Coon cats, known for their friendly nature and large size, make great companions. They’re affectionate, intelligent, and good with children and other pets. However, their long fur requires regular grooming, and they may be prone to certain costly health issues like hip dysplasia. Consider these factors before bringing one into your home.
After owning three Maine Coon males for 11+ years, I’ve got a few stories to tell that’ll help prospective owners understand the reality of this popular breed.
From dangle berries sporadically left around my home and expensive veterinarian bills, to the joy of teaching this intelligent cat breed Maine Coon Tricks, this article shares the truth about your furry friend!
Pros And Cons Of Maine Coon Cats
Maine Coon cats are attractive cats renowned for their friendly disposition and impressive size, making them wonderful additions to any household.
However, prospective owners should not overlook the extra costs, more intense grooming needs, and potential health issues that these dogs of the cat world can bring.
Overall, with proper care and attention, the Maine Coon cat breed will be the best breed of cat you will ever encounter (yes, I’m biased!!), and be excellent companions for many years.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Laidback gentle nature | High grooming needs |
| Playful and energetic | Prone to certain health issues, e.g. hip dysplasia |
| Intelligent and trainable | Need more space than smaller cat breeds |
| Loyal and affectionate | Expensive cat food |
| Family-Friendly | Prone to obesity |
| Vocal felines that like to communicate with family | Expensive to purchase |
| Adaptable | Can be territorial or jealous |
| “Dog-like” behaviors | Curious and mischievious |
| Great natural hunters | Kill bird population |
| Average lifespan 12 to 15 years | Behavioral issues if not mentally stimulated |
| Healthy cat breed | Routine veterinary bills & costly emergency charges |
| Stunning looks | Need human companionship. Prone to anxiety if left alone |
| Follow you everywhere! | Dangleberries happen! |
| Not aggressive | Expensive interactive toys |
| Learn simple commands & tricks | Emotionally sensitive |
| Intelligent cat breed | High shedding twice a year |
| Get on well with household pets | Fussy eaters |
| Independent | High risk of theft |
| Form deep bonds with owners | Need extra-large cat tower and scratching posts |
Best Things About Owning A Maine Coon
These cats are not only cool because they’re the biggest cat breed on the planet (excluding hybrid felines), Main Coon cats also have awesome laid-back personalities!
All three of my large cats have had unique tendencies, preferences, and quirky Maine Coon behavior, but their most attractive traits have got to be the following:
1. Healthier Cat Breed
Maine Coon cats, as a non-hybrid or natural cat breed, typically exhibit a greater genetic diversity compared to hybrid or selectively bred cats.
This diversity can contribute to their overall health and vitality. Here’s why:
- Genetic Diversity: Non-hybrid breeds have a broader genetic pool because they haven’t undergone extensive selective breeding for specific traits. This diversity reduces the likelihood of inherited genetic disorders.
- Natural Selection: Maine Coons evolved over generations to adapt to their environment. Natural selection favors traits that enhance their survival, resulting in a hardier and more resilient breed overall.
- Hybrid Vigor: Maine Coons, as a non-hybrid breed, already possess inherent vigor due to their genetic diversity.
- Reduced Health Issues: With fewer genetic predispositions to hereditary health problems, Maine Coons are generally healthier and less prone to genetic disorders.
- Longevity: The natural genetic diversity of Maine Coons contributes to their longevity.
2. Stunning Good Looks
The Maine Coon’s striking appearance, characterized by its large size, bushy tails, tufted ears, and beautiful coats, is a significant pro for the breed.
Their attractiveness enhances their recognition and popularity and makes them photogenic. It also contributes to their charm and desirability as pets.
3. Family Friendly
The Maine Coon’s family-friendly nature means they are well-suited to households with children and other pets, even homes where your children are loud and boisterous, like mine!
Their gentle and sociable disposition enables them to form strong bonds with all family members, including children.
It’s lovely to watch Bali, our tabby Maine Coon, learn the routine of putting our son to bed each night! Without fail Bali sleeps next to him at the start of every night, successfully calming his huge energy levels!
Whilst they are family-friendly, don’t be surprised if your cat picks a favorite owner – it’s usually the one that feeds and strokes them most!
4. Crazily Affectionate
The Maine Coon’s remarkable affectionate nature is a standout trait for the breed.
Unlike many cats perceived as aloof and independent, Maine Coons are known for their dog-like loyalty and steadfast companionship.
Their affection is tangible through Maine Coon head-bumps, endearing Maine Coon kisses, rubbing against you, always staying close, following you around, and maintaining eye contact.
This level of devotion makes them exceptional companions, offering emotional support and unwavering companionship, akin to the loyalty associated with dogs.
5. Independent Beings
The Maine Coon’s independent streak is a noteworthy advantage, especially for those seeking a cat that strikes a balance between companionship and autonomy.
Unlike some breeds that demand constant attention and affection, Maine Coons are content to be near you without being overly clingy.
This independence means they won’t insist on being in your lap or on your shoulders constantly, allowing you to go about your day without feeling constantly supervised.
Here’s a picture of Mika my giant Maine Coon cat – he saw me working so opted to sit next to me.
6. Emotionally Sensitive
Maine Coon cats are emotionally sensitive little souls and have a remarkable ability to tune into their owner’s emotions. They provide invaluable comfort and support during times of distress or pain.
I experienced this firsthand with my oldest Maine Coon cat, Pippin when I suffered considerable pain from a suspected migraine.
Pippin approached me with gentle purrs and nuzzled against my side as I lay on the couch. He didn’t leave my side for the entire night and instead rested his head on my chest until the pain had subsided.
7. Loyal
Maine Coon cats exhibit a remarkable sense of loyalty towards their human companions, a trait that distinguishes them from other feline breeds.
This loyalty is evident in their constant desire to be near their owners, their eagerness to greet them after periods of separation, and their readiness to provide comfort and companionship in times of need.
Though be warned! Some Maine Coon cats get grumpy if you go away for a few days, even if you’ve employed a full-time housesitter to keep them company!
When I first went away with work my cat made me aware of his disapproval upon my return! He acted grumpy and stand-off-ish towards me for days after I returned, until he decided I was ‘forgiven’!! haha.
8. Highly Intelligent
The intelligence of Maine Coon cats provides numerous advantages for owners. For starters, it’s fun teaching these large domestic cats how to perform simple Maine Coon tricks!
Yes, you heard that correctly. You CAN train a Maine Coon cat. Make sure you follow my article on Where To Get Started.
Here are a few fun training guides that you might find useful:
- How to teach your Maine Coon to play fetch
- Teaching your cat to walk on a leash or harness
- How to toilet train your Maine Coon cat
The Maine Coons superior intelligence enables them to understand commands and adapt to new routines quickly.
9. Compatible With Other Animals
Maine Coon cats generally get along well with other household pets (including dogs), thanks to their friendly nature and love for companionship. However, owners should be cautious with small pet rodents or birds due to this cat breed’s high prey drive!
Despite their superb hunting skills, Maine Coons can peacefully coexist with other animals when introduced properly. They often go on to form strong bonds with their furry companions.
With careful supervision and gradual introductions, owners can enjoy a harmonious environment where their Maine Coon thrives alongside other pets.
10. Playful
One of my all-time favorite Maine Coon cat traits is their highly playful nature.
Although their desire to play can feel intense and never-ending at times, it brings me and my family great joy and laughter. Who doesn’t love to play fetch with a GIANT cat?!
Here’s a great video on the Maine Coon Central YouTube channel, showing my brown tabby cat chasing his mouse across the kitchen and then returning it to us.
Don’t forget to CLICK SUBSCRIBE to see more fantastic videos on the Maine Coon Central YouTube channel.
Maine Coon Central
Here are a few tried and tested cat toys that even my senior Maine Coon liked to play with. I miss him 🙁
If you need more convincing that these large cats are smarter than the average cat, click the link below to watch my big cat SOLVE a Trixie DOG TREAT toy!!
11. Not Aggressive
Maine Coon cats, despite their large size, are known for their gentle and non-aggressive nature.
Despite their intimidating appearance, they tend to seek affection and companionship rather than display aggression.
12. Sociable Nature
These incredibly sociable creatures often seek out human interaction and thrive in the company of their family members.
They enjoy being involved in household activities and will eagerly follow their owners around the home.
13. Not Very Territorial
Maine Coon cats are not particularly territorial in the same way that some other breeds might be since they often get along well with other pets and even strangers.
However, like all cats, they may exhibit territorial behavior in certain situations, especially if they feel threatened or if there are changes in their environment.
14. Vocal
The vocal chirps and trills of Maine Coon cats are endearing traits that add to their charm.
These unique vocalizations serve as a means of communication, allowing them to express various emotions and needs.
For owners, these sounds can be a source of delight and amusement, creating a special bond with their feline companions.
Here’s an awesome YouTube video of one of my three Maine Coon cats chatting away to us.
Worst Things About Living With A Maine Coon
If these gentle giants have captivated your heart, BE WARNED!!! These long-haired cats do come with some unique challenges!
1. Expensive To Buy
Maine Coon cats are notably expensive, with the average cost of a purebred Maine Coon kitten from a Registered Maine Coon cat breeder being around USD 1,000 (£720).
This cat breed’s high purchase cost put these beautiful felines out of reach for many deserving cat lovers.
The risk of encountering backyard breeders and scammers in the Maine Coon marketplace is high. Unscrupulous sellers often run kitten farms, producing as many litters as they can at the expense of their breeding cats.
Many criminals also deceive unsuspecting buyers by selling them mixed-breed Maine Coons, or worst still, long-haired cats without an ounce of Maine Coon genetics in them!
2. Crippling Veterinarian Costs
If you think the price of buying a Maine Coon cat is bad, wait till you see these beautiful cats’ annual ‘running costs’!!!
The following essentials for these precious creatures will quickly burn a hole in your trouser pocket:
- Lifetime Pet Insurance
- High-Quality Cat Food
- Extra-Large Cat Trees
- Annual Veterinary Injections
- Flea and Mite Treatments
To give you a realistic idea of Pet Insurance costs, I pay 75 USD (£60) to Petplan EVERY MONTH! This covers two male Maine Coon cats on their Lifetime package.
My plan permits a maximum claim of 5009 USD (£4000) per year, per cat. If you can afford to though, they also have some pricier options that cover up to 15028 USD (£12,000) worth of claims per year.
Maybe I’m naive, however, I selected this plan as I never foresaw a situation whereby either cat would incur anywhere near the annual claim limit. I COULDN’T have been more WRONG!
At the start of 2024, I was gobsmacked to discover Bali had rinsed through a staggering 4007 USD (£3,200) of his annual 5009 USD (£4,000) allowance by month two of his annual plan!
His unexpected urinary tract infection resulted in a 3-day stay at a Pet Hospital (including weekend days); x-rays; drips; medicine and various veterinarian visits.
3. Genetic Health Problems
Maine Coon cats, while generally robust, are susceptible to certain health issues that can detract from their desirability as pets.
According to data from various cat association bodies, such as the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA), a notable percentage of Maine Coons may be affected by health conditions like:
Diagnostic tests, medications, and potential surgical interventions can incur significant expenses for owners.
To give you an idea of possible unexpected veterinary bills if you don’t invest in the correct pet insurance. In 2023 my eldest Maine Coon cat was quoted 8766 USD (£7,000) to have his two hips replaced since he suffered from mild hip dysplasia.
I had made a fatal mistake by not buying lifetime insurance, so the insurance company refused to cover the cost. Pippin sadly died at 10 years old so we never incurred these fees, however, it was a brutal eye-opener to potential cost risks.
4. They Need More Space Than A Normal Cat
Maine Coon cats typically need more space than average-sized cats due to their large size, active nature, and explosive Maine Coon Zoomies!
Larger cat trees will take up more room within your home, but accommodate the Maine Coon breed size, whilst also providing ample climbing and scratching opportunities.
I’ve found that my huge Maine Coons also need multiple large cat scratching posts that take up a considerable amount of space. The smaller ‘normal-sized’ cat scratching posts never worked, as all three of my cats toppled them over!
5. Constantly Grooming These Big Cats Is Exhausting!
One of the key downsides of owning a Maine Coon cat is the constant need to groom their thick coat. I love my cats, but this can honestly become quite tiresome, and time-consuming!
Regular grooming sessions are also a nightmare if you own cats that WILL NOT cooperate under ANY CIRCUMSTANCES!!! Pippin (God rest his soul) was a key example of that, so his daily grooming sessions could often be stressful.
Mika has wildly improved over the years, yet still dislikes his bottom area being brushed. And, as you’d expect that’s where his fur likes to tangle and mat the most!
By comparison, grooming Bali is a dream! It’s quick and simple and he LOVES being brushed! Quite the contrast!
6. They Nag You Even If You’re Busy!
These loyal and sociable felines often exhibit behaviors that might feel like they’re “nagging” their owners.
For example, if you have a set routine of sitting down to watch TV at 9 PM, your Maine Coon may expect this and follow you around as you go about your evening tasks, hoping that you’ll adhere to the usual schedule.
They thrive on routine and can become insistent if their expectations aren’t met, even to the point of sitting on top of the washing pile you’re sorting, or tripping you up as they try to herd you to the TV!!
While this behavior can be endearing, especially considering their desire for companionship, it can also feel overwhelming when you’re busy with other responsibilities.
This is why Maine Coon Cats HERD YOU!
7. You WILL Worry About Your Cat Being Stolen
Expect to always be worrying about your cat’s safety whilst they are outside, particularly if you own a free-roaming Maine Coon cat.
A Maine Coon owner’s concern stems from the fact that Maine Coons, being a popular and recognizable pedigree breed, are at a higher risk of theft than the standard moggy.
Their striking appearance and considerable value make them targets for theft, whether for resale or breeding purposes.
Outdoor Maine Coons also face threats from predators like coyotes, or other cats.
8. Why Can’t They Just Like The CHEAP Cat Toys?!
Known for their large size and playful nature, these big cats require sturdy and engaging toys to keep them entertained.
Due to their size and strength, they can quickly destroy flimsy toys meant for smaller cats.
Additionally, Maine Coons are highly intelligent and need mentally stimulating activities to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
Investing in durable and interactive cat toys that can withstand their rough play and challenge their minds can become costly over time.
9. They Get Bored Easily
Maine Coon cats require mental and physical stimulation to thrive. When deprived of engaging activities or toys, they easily become bored, leading to destructive behaviors like scratching furniture or chewing on objects.
This need for stimulation is inherent to their nature, making it essential for owners to provide adequate outlets for their energy to prevent boredom-induced mischief.
10. They Need Extra Large Cat Towers
Known for their substantial size reaching up to 22lbs, they require sturdy and spacious cat trees designed specifically for their dimensions.
Ordinary cat trees are inadequate and pose safety risks due to their weight. Investing in expensive cat trees, towers, and condos tailored for large breeds ensures both their safety and your peace of mind.
My cats currently have an RHR Cat Tower (Available in the UK), and it cost me an eye-watering $288 (GBP equivalent). I love it, and so do they. BUT … that’s a crazy expense.
Here are some of my favorite extra-large cat trees.
11. Their Food Bill Is UNREASONABLE!
These cats thrive on high-quality cat food that avoids excessive fillers or carbohydrates.
As obligate carnivores, they require a diet rich in protein to support their muscular build and energy needs.
Opting for specialized options like Royal Canin Urinary Dry Cat Food can help prevent urinary tract infections, but be prepared for the higher price tag.
12. Dirty Bottoms And Poo On Your Floor!
The fur on a Maine Coon cat’s bottoms can be disgusting if they experience digestive issues, leading to runny stools! The poop gets tangled in their thick fur – it’s gross!!
Poor little Bali experienced it when he was sick – he wasn’t a fan of having his bottom wiped with a warm flannel!
Once or twice a month I find lumps of cat poop on my wooden floor! It’s solid and not difficult to clean, but it should be in the litter tray!! I think this happens when feces get stuck on the long thick fur around the Maine Coons bottom!
13. I Wish I Didn’t Have Wooden Floors!
The Maine Coons’ playful antics wreak havoc on wooden floors – they certainly have done on my wooden floors.
My cats love playing fetch, chasing each other, or partaking in Zoomies. Whilst this is funny to watch and they get lots of enjoyment and exercise, this Maine Coon behavior has come with a financial cost that hurts!
My beautiful wooden floors are severely scratched and scraped. I now understand why my next-door neighbors installed stone floor tiles in their house – it was clearly to protect the floor from their dog’s claws!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Maine Coon cat breed presents a blend of advantages and considerations to potential owners.
On the positive side, their non-hybrid lineage contributes to their overall health, while their stunning appearance and affectionate nature make them delightful companions.
Their intelligence, loyalty, and compatibility with other pets further enhance their appeal.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge the potential challenges, such as their high grooming needs, shedding, and higher risk of theft due to their popularity.
Ultimately, weighing these pros and cons against individual preferences and lifestyle factors is crucial in making an informed decision about welcoming a Maine Coon into your home.
As a Maine Coon owner myself, I’ve experienced firsthand the joys and responsibilities that come with this breed, and I can confidently say that their unique qualities make them a cherished addition to any family.
