17 Must-Have Items For Maine Coon Kittens That Most New Owners Forget

Welcoming a Maine Coon kitten into your home is an exciting and joyful experience, but it also comes with responsibility.

Maine Coons are not your average cat breed. They’re large, intelligent, and full of personality, which means they require carefully chosen supplies tailored to their unique needs.

From the right size litter box to grooming tools made for thick coats, here’s everything you’ll need to prepare your home and give your new kitten the best possible start in life.

Maine Coon Kitten Essentials Checklist

1. High-Quality Kitten Food

Maine Coon kittens grow at a slower pace than most other breeds, which means they stay on kitten food for longer – typically until they are 12 to 15 months old.

Their large frames and highly active nature require a calorie-dense diet packed with high-quality animal protein, healthy fats, and key nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus to support strong bone development.

Look for premium kitten food with:

• Real meat or fish as the first ingredient
• At least 35% protein content
• No artificial additives, fillers, or meat by-products

Grain-free is not essential unless your kitten has a diagnosed allergy, but avoid cat food containing fillers like corn, soy, or wheat. If in doubt, consult your vet for a recommendation tailored to large-breed kittens.

2. Litter Box And Cat Litter

A Maine Coon kitten can start out with a smaller, low-sided litter tray that’s easy to access. However, they outgrow these fast!

As they develop into their large adult size, they’ll need a jumbo litter box. Ideally, one with high sides to contain litter scatter and urine spray.

Choose clumping, unscented litter that’s low in dust.

Heavily perfumed litter may seem like a good idea for odor control, but it can deter sensitive cats and lead to litter box avoidance.

For households with multiple cats, provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra.

3. Tall Scratching Post

Scratching is a natural behavior that helps kittens keep their claws healthy, stretch their muscles, and mark their territory.

A Maine Coon kitten will happily shred your sofa if you don’t provide a suitable alternative!

Look for a scratching post that is:

• At least 90 cm (36 inches) tall to allow for a full-body stretch
• Weighted or wall-mounted to prevent tipping
• Covered in durable sisal rope or fabric

Place the post in a high-traffic area where your kitten spends time, not tucked away in a corner.

Scratching is also a social behavior, so they prefer to scratch where you can see them.

4. Cat Tree or Tower

Maine Coons are expert climbers with strong muscles and a love for height. A basic tree won’t cut it, they need one built for large cat breeds.

Invest in a multi-level cat tower made with:

• Reinforced platforms large enough to hold a 20+ lb adult cat
• Thick scratching posts built into the structure
• Cozy perches, hideouts, and ramps

Choose wood or high-density materials over cardboard or cheap pressboard, which won’t last under the weight and activity of a Maine Coon.

5. Durable Cat Toys

Maine Coon kittens are highly intelligent and playful, often displaying dog-like behavior when interacting with toys.

A bored Maine Coon can easily become destructive, so you’ll need a toy box filled with enrichment options.

Best toy types include:

• Wand toys with feathers or bells for interactive play
• Plush “kick” toys for wrestling and biting
• Jingle balls, tunnels, and puzzle feeders for solo entertainment

Rotate toys weekly to maintain interest and prevent overstimulation. Always supervise toys with strings or detachable parts.

6. Wide Food And Water Bowls

Due to their long whiskers, Maine Coons can suffer from whisker fatigue – a sensory overload that happens when their whiskers constantly brush against the sides of a narrow bowl.

Choose food and water dishes that are:

• Wide, shallow, and ceramic or stainless steel
• Easy to clean and tip-proof
• Designed with low rims to reduce whisker contact

A water fountain is also highly recommended. Flowing water encourages Maine Coons to drink more, which supports urinary tract health and hydration.

7. High-Protein Cat Treats

Treats are an excellent tool for training, bonding, and reinforcing positive behavior, especially during grooming or vet visits.

However, many supermarket treats are packed with sugar, carbs, and preservatives that can lead to weight gain or digestive issues.

Choose treats made from:

• Freeze-dried raw meat (like chicken, duck, or salmon)
• Single-ingredient dehydrated meats
• Grain-free soft chews with added taurine

Feed in moderation. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your kitten’s daily calorie intake.

8. Oversized Cat Bed

Maine Coon kittens will grow into some of the largest domestic cats in the world, often growing up to 40 inches in length.

Therefore, don’t forget to invest early in a large, comfortable cat bed that will still be suitable once your kitten reaches adulthood.

Look for:

• Cushioned orthopedic bases for joint support
• Machine-washable covers
• Cave-style beds for warmth, or open beds for stretchers
• Dog-sized pet beds

Many Maine Coon owners opt for medium-sized dog beds, which offer ample space and support.

9. Catnip

Not all cats respond to catnip, but many Maine Coons enjoy it as a form of mental stimulation and relaxation. Offer catnip in small doses through:

• Stuffed toys
• Sprinkle-on dried catnip
• Catnip sprays

Avoid overuse, and don’t force it on kittens who show no interest. You can also try silvervine or valerian root as alternatives.

10. Pet Insurance

Maine Coons are a generally healthy breed, but they are genetically predisposed to conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia. These issues can result in costly vet bills over the cat’s lifetime.

A good pet insurance policy will help cover:

• Accidents and emergency care
• Diagnostic testing and scans (e.g., echocardiograms)
• Lifelong treatment for chronic conditions
• Toothcare (e.g., Petplan, in the UK).

Look for coverage with a high annual limit and no breed-specific exclusions.

11. Cat First Aid Kit

Every owner should keep a basic first aid kit on hand since Maine Coon kittens are adventurous and curious, therefore accidents can happen quickly.

Your kit should include:

• Antiseptic wipes or pet-safe wound cleaner
• Gauze, self-adhesive bandages, and scissors
• Tweezers and a digital thermometer
• Saline solution for eye and wound rinsing
• Styptic powder for nail bleeds

12. Extra-Large Cat Carrier

Even as kittens, Maine Coons grow rapidly, so it’s best to purchase a carrier that fits them into adulthood. Standard carriers will quickly become too small.

Look for a carrier that is:

• Rated for cats up to 25 lbs
• Well-ventilated with a secure latch
• Easy to clean and padded inside for comfort

Soft-sided carriers with shoulder straps are great for short vet trips, while hard plastic carriers offer more protection for longer journeys.

13. Grooming Brushes And Combs

Maine Coon coats are long, dense, and prone to tangling, especially around the belly and armpits.

Start grooming early to prevent mats and get your kitten used to being handled and brushed.

Essential tools include:

• A slicker brush for detangling surface fur
• A wide-tooth metal comb for deeper grooming
• A deshedding tool (like the FURminator) for seasonal shedding

Aim to brush your kitten at least twice a week, increasing frequency during spring and fall when they shed more heavily.

14. Nail Clippers

Keep your kitten’s claws trimmed to reduce accidental scratches and protect your furniture.

Use cat-specific nail clippers, not human ones, and trim just the pointed tip of the claw.

Clip nails every 2–3 weeks, and always have styptic powder on hand to stop bleeding in case you cut too close to the quick.

15. Harness And Leash

Maine Coons are one of the few cat breeds that often enjoy exploring the outdoors on a leash.

Start training your kitten early with a soft, vest-style harness that distributes pressure evenly across the chest.

Practice indoors before going outside. Pair harness time with treats to create a positive association.

16. Calming Diffusers Or Sprays

Big changes like moving to a new home or visiting the vet can trigger stress in kittens. Use calming aids to help them adjust.

Effective options include:

• Feliway pheromone diffusers
• Calming sprays for carriers or bedding
• Herbal or natural treats for anxiety

Always consult your vet before using calming supplements.

17. Playpen Or Baby Gate

During the early weeks, a playpen or baby gate is helpful for managing your kitten’s safety. This is especially important if you have other pets or small children.

Use it to:

• Contain your kitten to one room at night
• Separate them during introductions with resident pets
• Prevent access to stairs or dangerous areas

Choose a gate tall enough to prevent jumping, and make sure it’s securely fastened.