21 Truth Bombs About Maine Coons That EVERY Cat Owner Needs To Know
Maine Coons are legendary. Known as “gentle giants”, they’re one of the largest and most affectionate cat breeds in the world.
Their dramatic looks – tufted lynx-like ears, long flowing coats, and bushy tails make them instantly recognizable. But behind that striking exterior lies a cat with:
- Unique needs
- Surprising quirks
- Challenges that first-time owners rarely expect
Before you rush into buying one of these magnificent cats, it’s crucial to understand what living with a Maine Coon is really like.
Below, I’ll reveal 21 things you absolutely must know about Maine Coons, explained in detail so you know what’s adorable, what’s demanding, and what could catch you off guard.
21 Things To Know About Maine Coons
So let’s get started, this is what YOU NEED TO KNOW:
1. Maine Coons Are Expensive
Owning a Maine Coon isn’t cheap. Kittens from registered breeders typically cost between $1,000-$3,000 USD (£800-£2,000 in the UK).
The price reflects pedigree, vaccinations, early vet care, and sometimes genetic testing. Adult cats, rescues, or retired breeding cats are often cheaper, but they’re harder to find.
And the purchase price is only the beginning – ongoing costs for food, grooming, and healthcare can quickly add up.
2. They’re Social Butterflies
Unlike aloof cats who vanish for hours, Maine Coons often want to be where the action is.
They’ll follow you from room to room, sit beside you on the sofa, and join you while you cook or work.
This breed thrives on companionship and doesn’t like being left alone for long periods.
Owners who travel often or work long hours may want to consider adopting two, so their cat has company.
3. Health Issues Are Possible Despite Their Hardiness
Maine Coons are generally robust compared to many pedigree breeds, but they are prone to some serious hereditary and lifestyle-related conditions.
These include:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A heart disease common in large breeds.
- Hip Dysplasia: Due to their size, joint issues can appear earlier.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Cysts on the kidneys that affect function.
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): A genetic disorder impacting muscle development.
Good breeders screen for these, but owners must commit to regular vet check-ups and weight control to reduce risks.
4. They’re Hugely Popular For Good Reason
Maine Coons consistently rank among the top three most popular cat breeds in the U.S. and Europe. Their popularity stems from their affectionate nature, intelligence, and adaptability.
Families, singles, and even households with dogs often find Maine Coons easy to integrate.
But their popularity also makes them prime targets for scammers, so be cautious when buying. Here are 30 Maine Coon cat scams to watch out for.
5. They’re Very Talkative
Maine Coons don’t just meow – they chirp, trill, and warble in ways that almost sound like conversation.
Owners often report that their Maine Coon seems to “talk back”, responding when spoken to.
This can be charming but may surprise people expecting a quiet cat. If you’re after peace and silence, this breed may not be ideal!
6. Grooming Is A Serious Commitment
That long, luxurious coat looks effortless, but it requires work.
Maine Coons need brushing at least 2-3 times per week to prevent mats and tangles, and during seasonal shedding, you may need to brush daily. Without this, fur can clump painfully and even lead to skin infections.
Grooming also reduces hairballs, which are more likely in such a heavy-coated breed.
7. They Can Be Adorably Clumsy
Because Maine Coons grow slowly and reach full size between 3 and 5 years old, their bodies often grow unevenly. This can leave them hilariously uncoordinated – misjudging jumps, slipping off counters, or crashing into furniture.
Owners find this clumsiness endearing, but it also means you’ll want to cat-proof shelves and avoid placing fragile items where your Maine Coon roams.
8. They’re Obsessed With Water
Don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon tries to drink straight from the faucet, paddle in your bath, or scoop water from their bowl with their paws. Unlike most cats, Maine Coons are fascinated by water. Some even like swimming!
Owners should keep toilet lids down and expect playful splashing in sinks.
9. Their Size Requires Special Equipment
Maine Coons are among the largest domestic cat breeds. Males often weigh 18-22 lbs.
Their sheer size means normal cat trees, carriers, and litter boxes may be too small.
You’ll need heavy-duty scratching posts, jumbo litter boxes, and sturdier cat furniture to support their weight and keep them happy.
10. Great With Families And Kids
Maine Coons are famously patient, gentle, and tolerant, which makes them excellent with children.
Many families report their Maine Coon acts almost like a “nanny cat”, supervising kids and even becoming protective.
Still, as with any pet, interactions should always be supervised with very young children.
11. They Need Lots Of Play And Exercise
These cats may look like majestic couch ornaments, but they’re highly active. Without daily play – chasing toys, climbing towers, running through tunnels, they can become bored, overweight, and even destructive.
Owners should set aside 15-20 minutes twice daily for interactive play sessions to keep their cat healthy and mentally stimulated.
12. Pet Insurance Is Worth Considering
Vet care for Maine Coons can be expensive, especially if genetic conditions surface later in life.
Hip dysplasia surgery or lifelong heart medication can cost thousands. Pet insurance helps cover emergencies, surgeries, and long-term treatment. Many owners consider it an essential investment.
13. Usually Good With Other Pets
Maine Coons are generally friendly toward other cats and even dogs, especially if raised together. However, their strong hunting instincts mean small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, and birds may not be safe.
Always supervise interactions with prey animals.
14. They Stay Playful Into Old Age
Maine Coons have a reputation for never truly “growing up.” Even as seniors, they’ll still chase toys, squeeze into boxes, and play hide-and-seek.
This youthful spirit is one of the breed’s most endearing traits and keeps them engaging companions for many years.
15. Highly Intelligent Cats
These cats are problem solvers. They can open cupboards, figure out how to get treats, and manipulate their environment to get what they want.
Intelligence makes them fun to train, but also means they need regular mental challenges i.e. puzzle feeders, training sessions, or rotating toys.
16. Surprisingly Trainable
Unlike many cats, Maine Coons can learn to walk on a harness, play fetch, or follow simple commands.
Training works best with positive reinforcement (treats, toys, praise). This trainability deepens the bond between owner and cat.
17. Lifespan Of 10-15 Years
The average Maine Coon lifespan is slightly shorter than that of smaller breeds, typically 10-15 years.
Some live beyond this with excellent care, but obesity, genetic conditions, and poor diet can reduce their longevity. Owners must prioritize preventative health.
18. Neutering And Spaying Is Standard
Most breeders recommend neutering around 4-6 months to prevent unwanted litters and reduce behavioral issues like spraying.
Early neutering also minimizes roaming instincts, which can be dangerous for outdoor cats.
19. Two May Be Better Than One
Because Maine Coons are so social, having two cats often helps prevent loneliness, especially in busy households.
While doubling the responsibility, two Maine Coons can entertain each other and reduce the risk of destructive behavior.
20. They Don’t Tolerate Long Absences
Leaving a Maine Coon alone for 8-10 hours daily is not ideal. Loneliness can lead to stress behaviors such as over-grooming, clinginess, or aggression.
If you work long hours, consider enrichment strategies like puzzle toys, window perches, or a second pet.
21. They’ll Change The Way You Think About Cats
Many Maine Coon owners report that after living with one, “normal” cats seem different. Maine Coons are often described as “dog-like,” thanks to their loyalty, playfulness, and love of following owners around.
Be warned: once you’ve had a Maine Coon, it’s hard to imagine life without one.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Maine Coon is a joy and a responsibility. Their size, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them one of the most rewarding cat breeds, but they demand time, attention, grooming, and money.
If you’re ready to meet those needs, a Maine Coon will reward you with years of companionship unlike any other cat.
