Shaving Maine Coon Cats | Advice, Risks & Tips

When I first brought our eldest Maine Coon home, I quickly noticed that his fur was prone to matting and tangles, especially if I allowed him to roam around in our wet garden.
Being new to the Maine Coon cat breed at that time, I pondered whether shaving Maine Coon cats was acceptable (or necessary), so began researching the subject in greater detail.
I discovered that shaving a cat is not advisable unless done for medical reasons, or if the cat’s fur is severely matted. With this in mind I look closer at the facts and determine – is it ok to shave a Maine Coon cat?
Professional groomers can shave Maine Coon fur so that it is shorter, easier to care for, or more fashionable. However, it’s best to shave your cat if it’s medically necessary, or their fur is severely matted. Otherwise, leave your Maine Coon’s coat intact as it helps keep your cat protected from extreme temperatures, sunburn, and injuries.
If you’re struggling to keep your Maine Coon’s coat in great condition take comfort in knowing you’re not alone! Some long-haired cats are more genetically prone to challenging fur!
So, before grabbing the trimmer, here are the rules when it comes to shaving a Maine Coon cat.
Is It Ok To Shave Maine Coon Cats?
Shaving a Maine Coon should be reserved for medical necessities only, or if the cat’s fur has become severely matted and is causing your feline distress.
Cats should never be shaved to be ”fashionable’ or if an owner prefers a different cat hairstyle for their gentle giant.
If a cat owner HAS to shave their Maine Coon, this should ONLY ever be done carefully by a professional groomer or a veterinarian experienced in handling cats.
The process should be as stress-free as possible for the cat, and proper precautions should be taken to ensure the cat remains safe during the grooming process.
While shaving may be necessary in severe cases of matting, it’s essential to address the underlying cause of the matting, such as insufficient grooming or health issues, to prevent recurrence in the future.
Why Would You Want To Shave A Cat?
Despite being one of the most popular cat breeds, many potential owners are unaware that a Maine Coon cat’s luxurious fur can develop mats and severe tangles.
Matting is more likely if the cat’s coat is not properly cared for, or if they’re genetically unlucky and inherit tangly high-maintenance fur from their parents.
Other causes of matted feline hair include:
- Lack of grooming
- Shedding
- Moisture getting trapped in the fur
While it’s generally preferable to prevent matting through regular grooming, mats can still develop, particularly in areas difficult for a cat to groom itself. In such situations, shaving is the most suitable route to take.
Personally, having owned a Maine Coon prone to tangles and matting, keeping on top of a cat with ‘challenging’ and ‘high-maintenance’ fur is difficult.
Although we never shaved our cat (apart from medical reasons), we did have to use scissors on multiple occasions to cut into the matted fur and separate the dead tangled fur from the live fur.
Daily brushing and putting salmon oil in Pippin’s food helped his fur. However, despite this keeping on top of my cat’s fur often felt like a full-time job!
The situation was made worse because my cat attacked us when we tried to brush him since he hated being brushed anywhere other than the top of his back as he suffered from arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Pain
An owner may want to shave their cat’s matted fur if it becomes severe because the mats can cause discomfort and even pain for the cat.
This is because the mats pull on the skin, leading to irritation, and can restrict movement. Shaving removes these mats, providing immediate relief.
Health Risk
Severe mats create pockets where dirt, debris, and even parasites can accumulate, which potentially cause skin infections or other health issues.
Shaving removes the mats and reduces the risk of such problems.
Hygiene
Mats can trap urine and feces, leading to hygiene issues and potential skin irritation or infections.
Shaving the affected areas helps maintain better hygiene for the cat, which ultimately means a cat feels happier and healthier.
Improved Grooming
After severely matted fur has been shaved, it becomes easier to groom the cat properly, preventing future matting issues from occurring.
Regular grooming, including brushing and combing, can help maintain the Maine Coon’s magnificent coat and prevent mats from forming.
Medically Necessary
Shaving a cat’s hair cannot always be avoided.
A veterinarian might need to shave your cat to operate on them if suffering from a skin disease or injury or to attach them to a drip.
Having part of your cat’s fur shaved away can also make it easier for owners to apply ointments or care to the cat’s affected area or injury (source 1).
To Remove Matted Fur
If a Maine Coon’s fur has become tangled shaving might be necessary to remove the matted fur and remove the distress it causes your cat.
Mats usually occur when the cat’s dead loose fur becomes tangled within the cat’s living hair. Eventually, this tangle becomes a mat and the fur becomes so tangled that owners cannot brush through it.
To Change A Cat’s Hairstyle!
Chances are you’ve seen at least one cat with a lion’s mane cut.
The Maine Coon lion cut involves shaving all the fur from your cat’s body except its:
- Mane
- Paws
- Tips of the cat’s tail
While this “cat hairstyle” might look cute (in some people’s opinion), it is not a good idea to give your cat a Maine Coon Lion Cut.
Not only is this extreme hairstyle uncomfortable, it is also completely unnecessary! This drastic shave also has many drawbacks since the sensitive areas of your cat’s skin will no longer be protected.
It’s More Hygienic!
The Maine Coon’s fur may be gorgeous, but it can present a hygiene problem at times since the extra long fur on their hind legs and tails can become soiled after your cat uses the litter box.
Even the most devoted cat owners do not want cat poop and urine spread all over the house and furniture! Ewww!! Just imagine sitting down and finding poop on your sofa!
One of my Maine Coons suffers from dangleberries every so often, so if you relate to this I fully understand why you may want to trim the fur on your cat’s bottom! Shaving the cat’s bottom and hind legs though, is just too extreme.
Instead, it’s usually a better idea to trim the long fur of your Maine Coon’s hind legs and bottom area.
This is much safer and keeps your cat’s delicate skin protected from heat, cold, or insects.
Shaving Reduces Shedding Levels
Maine Coons shed a moderate amount year-round, but they shed heavily before the winter and summer months because they are preparing for their summer/winter coat.
Some owners think it’s a good idea to shave a Maine Coons fur to reduce its shedding levels.
While this will work, cats use their fur for sun protection and temperature regulation, so we do not advise you to shave your cat’s fur off.
Why You Should NEVER Shave A Maine Coon Cat
Shaving a Maine Coon has its downsides, as I’ve listed below:
1. Skin Problems From Shaving
Shaving can give your Maine Coon skin problems, so it is best to avoid shaving a cat unless it is medically necessary.
Cats without much fur are also more vulnerable to:
- Insect Bites
- Scratches
- Scrapes
- Sun Burn
If the groomer shaves too closely to the cat’s skin this might also cause injury or skin irritation.
2. Protection From Sunburn And Insects!
A shaved Maine Coon is much more susceptible to sunburn, as their fur offers them protection from the sun’s rays.
If you shave your Maine Coon it might be more likely to get injured, scraped, or bitten, especially if it’s an outdoor cat.
3. Fur Regulates Their Temperature
Shaving a Maine Coon during hot weather does more harm than good.
The Maine Coon’s fur might have developed in the cold weather of Maine, but it also protects them from the heat since the inner layers of fur trap warm or cool air and keep it close to the skin.
When it’s hot out, your cat’s fur will trap cold air, whereas during cold weather it’ll trap warm air.
Better Alternatives To Shaving
If you’re struggling to keep your Maine Coon cats fur in great condition, you’re not alone so try not to stress.
Here are some useful tips to care for your big cat’s thick dense fur:
1. Brush Regularly
The Maine Coon’s coat may be beautiful, but it’s thick and long so needs brushing 2-3 times a week, or more if you have a cat with fur prone to knots.
Start with a plastic or metal comb to get through any tangles. Then use a slicker brush to remove the cat’s dead hair.
Finally, use a soft bristle brush to make your Maine Coon’s top coat shine!
These are my Maine Coon Cats Favorite Grooming Tools.
2. Bathe Your Cat!
Bathing helps remove dander and buildup on the cat’s skin, whilst also helping to remove dead fur. However, you shouldn’t bathe a Maine Coon too frequently as this can lead to dry skin.
Maine Coons tend to love water so if bathing is introduced while they are still kittens you’ll likely find they love bathtime!
Using one of these cat shampoos is recommended (source 1).
How To Prevent Mats
These long-haired cats have a triple coat of fur. The long outer layer of thicker guard hairs has semi-water-repellent properties and can either be a silky coat or a shaggy coat of fur, depending upon the cat’s genetics.
The other two layers are considerably shorter and more dense. They are often called insulating fur because the thick double coat traps warm or cool air for temperature regulation.
Preventing matting and tangles in Maine Coon cats requires consistent grooming and attention to their luxurious coats.
Here are some detailed tips to help you keep your Maine Coon’s fur in top condition:
1. Regular Brushing
Brush your Maine Coon’s fur at least a few times a week, if not daily, using a high-quality grooming brush designed for long-haired cats.
Start with a wide-toothed comb to detangle any knots gently, then switch to a finer comb to remove loose fur and prevent mats from forming.
2. Focus On Problem Areas
Pay close attention to areas prone to matting, such as:
- Bottom area
- Hind Legs
- Under the armpits
These spots tend to trap more fur and are more susceptible to tangling.
3. Use Detangling Spray
Consider using a cat-specific detangling spray or conditioner to help loosen knots and make brushing easier.
Spray it lightly onto the fur before brushing, focusing on areas with tangles.
4. Trimming Long Fur
Trim the fur around your Maine Coon’s hindquarters to prevent it from dragging on the ground and picking up dirt, debris, and moisture, which can contribute to matting.
5. Bathing And Drying
Bathe your Maine Coon occasionally using a cat-friendly shampoo and conditioner, especially if the fur becomes dirty or oily.
Ensure thorough drying after baths to prevent damp fur from matting.
6. Positive Reinforcement
Make grooming sessions a positive experience for your Maine Coon by offering treats, praise, and gentle handling.
This will help build trust and cooperation, making grooming more manageable for both of you.
7. Professional Grooming
If you want to shave your cat, you should never do it alone as you could cut and seriously injure your cat in the process.
Instead, the best option is to go to a professional groomer.
Professional groomers can safely shave your cat if necessary. They can also bathe, brush, and help remove much of the dead fur in your cat’s coat.
Groomers are also great because they can keep your cat’s nails trimmed and their ears and faces clean and free of gunk and buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while shaving a Maine Coon cat may become necessary in cases of severe matting or tangled fur, it should be approached with caution and undertaken only when deemed essential for the cat’s health and well-being.
The decision to shave a Maine Coon should be made in consultation with a professional groomer or veterinarian, considering the severity of the matting and any associated discomfort or health risks for the cat.
Additionally, efforts should be made to address the underlying causes of matting and to prevent future occurrences through regular grooming and proper care.
Ultimately, shaving should be viewed as a last resort to alleviate the cat’s discomfort and improve its overall quality of life.