What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Maine Coon Cat? | 2024 Research

When I lost my first Maine Coon, Pippin, at just 10 years old due to health issues, I was determined to learn more about the lifespan of this breed. Like many cat owners, I wondered how long I could expect my other fur babies, Mika, and Bali, to live.

As the oldest natural living cat breed in America, was I being greedy hoping they would live to 20 years old?

This article explores what is the average lifespan of a Maine Coon cat, and how does it compare to other popular breeds?

Brief History Of The Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is one of the oldest and most beloved cat breeds in North America.

Originating in the northeastern United States, this breed likely developed through natural selection, where only the hardiest cats could survive the frigid winters of Maine.

Their rugged origins are reflected in their thick, semi-water-resistant fur, large size, and bushy tails, which helped them endure the cold climate.

Known for their friendly and sociable nature, Maine Coons quickly became popular as farm cats hunting mice and rodents, and then companions.

What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Maine Coon Cat?

On average, Maine Coon cats live between 12 to 15 years, although some live longer if the tips I’ve detailed below are followed. The oldest Maine Coon reached 27 years!

Here’s a study I did on my Maine Coon Central YouTube channel – I asked owners how long their Maine Coon cats had lived for.

I was surprised to find that 29% of the 127 voters had a Maine Coon cat that lived 15-16 years! Wow! Better yet, an eye-watering 26% of voters owned a Maine Coon that lived for 17+ years. Now, I’m jealous!!

This lifespan is comparable to many other domestic cat breeds, however, it’s worth noting that individual factors can influence how long a Maine Coon might live.

During 2003 – 2006 a Swedish pet insurance company identified that the median lifespan of a Maine Coon cat was >12.5 years.

This figure was supported by their research which discovered that 74% of Maine Coons lived for 10 years or more, and 54% survived to 12.5 years or over (source 1).

Factors Influencing Lifespan

Several factors impact the lifespan of a Maine Coon

1. Genetics

Genetics plays a pivotal role in determining the Maine Coon cat’s lifespan.

Although known for their robust size and gentle temperament, they sadly have a predisposition to certain hereditary health issues, including:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Hip Dysplasia

Learn more about these health conditions by reading my article ‘Top 7 Maine Coon Cat Health Issues‘.

When buying a Maine Coon it’s crucial to research the breeder’s practices and the health history of the kitten’s parents. This helps mitigate the risk of buying a Maine Coon kitten with serious health problems.

2. Diet

Feeding your Maine Coon a high-quality diet is crucial for their health and longevity.

This large breed has specific dietary needs, including a diet high in animal protein to support their muscular build. Buy cat food that:

• Lists meat as the first ingredient
• Is high in protein
• Has no fillers
• Contains low carbohydrates
• Has a balanced mix of nutrients, including taurine

Feed your cat high-quality cat food appropriate for their age, weight, and activity levels to avoid health problems such as obesity and promote a longer lifespan.

Here are 5 signs your cat may need to lose a few pounds!

After years of first-hand experience choosing the best food for Maine Coon cats, I found these dry cat foods to be the best, for my three furry friends.

Consider incorporating 2-3 sachets of wet food each week into their diet to maintain hydration, as Maine Coons can be prone to urinary tract issues.

3. Routine Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for monitoring and maintaining the health of a Maine Coon. Early detection of issues allows for timely intervention, which can significantly extend a Maine Coon’s lifespan.

Ensure your cat is up to date on vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

4. Exercise

Maine Coons are naturally playful and active cats, so regular exercise is essential to keep them healthy.

Exercise helps prevent obesity and related conditions such as diabetes and joint problems which are particularly common in large cat breeds like the Maine Coon.

Provide your cat with plenty of opportunities for climbing, chasing, and interactive play to help keep them in top physical condition. Vertical spaces like cat trees and shelves encourage climbing and jumping.

Here’s a picture of my Maine Coons HUGE cat tree:

Regular play sessions help with weight management and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior or depression.

Interactive toys, such as feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders, can stimulate their hunting instincts and keep them engaged.

5. Home Environment

Keep your cat’s living environment clean and free from hazards.

A safe, stress-free home environment is vital for a Maine Coon’s well-being and longevity. These cats thrive in stable, calm surroundings where they feel secure. Stress can weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to illnesses.

Maine Coons are known for their sociable nature, so a home with plenty of interaction, enrichment, and space to explore is ideal.

6. Health Issues

Several health issues can affect the lifespan of a Maine Coon, with some conditions being more prevalent within the breed than others.

For instance, hip dysplasia is a significant concern, affecting approximately 20% of Maine Coons. Here are the most important facts about feline hip dysplasia.

My cat developed mild hip dysplasia at 10 years old. This made it difficult for him to move comfortably and impacted his quality of life.

Another common health issue in Maine Coons is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition that affects roughly 10% to 15% of the breed. HCM can lead to heart failure if not detected and managed early.

These are the Signs Of HCM.

Both hip dysplasia and HCM can shorten a Maine Coon’s life if not properly addressed, making regular veterinary care crucial.

7. Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for maintaining your Maine Coon’s well-being. These intelligent cats need regular mental challenges to stay sharp and content.

Providing a variety of toys, like these stimulates your cat’s senses.

Interactive puzzles, treat-dispensing toys, and even simple cardboard boxes can keep your cat entertained. Rotating toys and introducing new ones regularly also helps to prevent boredom.

Spending time interacting with your Maine Coon through play, grooming, and affection strengthens your bond and ensures they remain mentally and emotionally fulfilled.

Oldest Maine Coon Cat

The oldest living Maine Coon cat was named “Corduroy,”. Corduroy was born on August 1, 1989, and lived in Oregon, USA, with his owner, Ashley Reed Okura.

At 26 years old he was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2015 as the world’s oldest living cat.

Corduroy’s longevity is quite remarkable, as the average lifespan of a Maine Coon is typically 12 – 15 years. His long life was attributed to a healthy diet, regular veterinary care, and a loving, stress-free environment.

His owner, Reed Okura, confirmed that Corduroy was an outdoor Maine Coon all his life, and he still loved to hunt prey in the wild at 26 years of age.

Sadly, in December 2016 the Daily Mail reported that Corduroy (now 27 years old) was suspected dead, after 7 weeks’ absence from his owners.

Comparison To Other Popular Cat Breeds

The average lifespan of other popular cat breeds doesn’t vary a great deal.

Here’s a quick summary of what I found:

1. Siamese (12-20 years):
   The Siamese cat is one of the longest-lived cat breeds, with an average lifespan ranging from 12 to 20 years. Their longevity is attributed to their robust health and active lifestyle.
2. Persian (12-16 years):
   Persian cats typically live between 12 to 16 years. While they can enjoy a relatively long life, Persian cats are prone to specific breed-related health issues that affect their lifespan, e.g. brachycephalic airway syndrome.
3. Ragdoll (12-17 years):
   Ragdoll cats have an average lifespan of 12 to 17 years. They are generally healthy cats but are prone to hereditary conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and urinary tract issues.
4. Bengal (12-16 years):
   Bengals have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Their active nature often keeps them in good physical shape, however, they are prone to health issues, e.g. progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Do Indoor Maine Coons Live Longer?

Indoor Maine Coons generally live longer than their outdoor counterparts.

The average lifespan of an indoor cat, including Maine Coons, is typically around 12 to 15 years, with some living well into their 20s. Outdoor cats often have shorter lifespans, averaging around 5 to 7 years. Here’s why:

1. Reduced Risk of Accidents

Outdoor cats are exposed to various dangers, such as traffic, which is a leading cause of injury and death for outdoor pets.

2. Lower Exposure To Diseases

Outdoor cats are more likely to come into contact with other animals that may carry infectious diseases, such as Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

Indoor cats have a lower risk of contracting these diseases since they are less likely to encounter infected animals.

3. Protection From Predators And Other Animals

Outdoor cats face threats from larger animals, such as dogs or wild predators, which can lead to injury or death. Additionally, fights with other cats can result in wounds or the transmission of diseases.

Indoor Maine Coons are shielded from such encounters.

4. Controlled Diet

Indoor cats are more likely to receive regular, balanced meals, and their diet is typically more controlled. This helps prevent obesity and related health issues.

However, outdoor Maine Coon cats are less prone to:

• Overeating
• Lack of exercise
• Psychological issues

5. Less Stress

The outdoor environment can be stressful for cats due to the constant need to navigate territorial disputes, find food, and avoid dangers.

Indoor cats typically experience a more stable and less stressful environment, which can contribute to a longer life.

However, there are advantages for a Maine Coon to access their natural habitat since it is full of excitement, scents, and smells for them to investigate.

Conclusion

The average lifespan of a Maine Coon cat typically ranges between 12 to 15 years, although some can live well into their late teens or even early twenties.

Factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary visits play crucial roles in determining a Maine Coon’s longevity.