Maine coon

Finding healthy Maine Coon kittens for sale can be overwhelming. Kitty Land is an expert guide, not a breeder. We partner with a network of vetted, reputable breeders to help you find a healthy, socialized kitten and bypass the scams and confusion.

What is a Maine Coon cat?

A Maine Coon is one of the oldest natural cat breeds in North America, famous for being the official state cat of Maine. They are nicknamed “gentle giants” for a reason. I’ll never forget the first time I met one; it was like seeing a small lynx walk into the room, complete with ear tufts and a massive, bushy tail.

They are a giant, long-haired breed known for their rugged, “shag” coat and “dog-like” personality. Their structure is solid and muscular, built for the harsh winters of their home state. But despite their wild look, their temperament is the real prize.

What is the temperament and personality of a Maine Coon?

Maine Coons are known for being highly intelligent, playful, and incredibly good-natured. They are not typically aloof; they are curious, people-oriented, and often follow their owners from room to room.

Think of them less like a typical cat and more like a companion. They are famously “chirpy,” making a distinct meow that sounds more like a trill or chirp to communicate. They are trainable and many, like my own friend’s Coon, can even learn to play fetch. They are generally more “independent” than a lap cat, preferring to sit near you rather than on you, but they always want to be part of the action.

How big do Maine Coons get?

Get ready for a big cat! Male Maine Coons are larger, typically weighing 15 to 25 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, usually in the 10 to 15-pound range. They are slow-growing, meaning they don’t reach their full size until they are 3-5 years old.

The average lifespan of a Maine Coon is generally 12 to 15 years, provided they are from healthy bloodlines and receive proper care.

Are Maine Coons good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are one of the most recommended cats for families. Their “gentle giant” name is well-earned. They are famously patient with children and have a playful, outgoing nature that makes them a great pet.

Their easygoing personality extends to other animals, too. Maine Coons are often fantastic with other cats and cat-friendly dogs. A slow, proper introduction is key, but their non-territorial nature gives them a huge advantage. Finding well-socialized maine coon pets for sale from a breeder who raises them “underfoot” (in the home) is the best way to ensure this.

Do Maine Coons shed a lot or like water?

They do shed, but it’s not as bad as you might think for a long-haired cat. Their coat is designed to be somewhat self-maintaining, but they still need brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent mats. And are Maine Coons hypoallergenic? No, unfortunately, they are not.

One of their most famous quirks is that Maine Coons often like water. Their fur is water-resistant, and many owners find their kittens splashing in water bowls or trying to join them in the shower. I’ll never forget seeing a friend’s coon cat batting at the water in his bowl until it looked like a small lake on the kitchen floor.

What is a Polydactyl Maine Coon?

A Polydactyl Maine Coon is a Maine Coon born with extra toes. It’s a natural genetic trait in the breed and is perfectly healthy. Sailors historically prized these cats on ships, believing their big “snowshoe” paws gave them better balance on the high seas. Today, they are a unique and cherished part of the breed‘s dynasty.

What are the most common health problems in Maine Coons?

While a generally hardy breed, Maine Coons are genetically predisposed to a few serious health conditions. This is why working with a reputable breeder who does genetic testing is not just important—it’s everything.

The “big three” conditions to be aware of are Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Hip Dysplasia, and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). A good breeder will test the parent cats for all of these before breeding.

What is HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy)?

HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy) is the most common heart disease in all cats, but Maine Coons have a specific gene mutation that puts them at higher risk. It causes the walls of the heart muscle to thicken, which can lead to complications.

A reputable breeder must perform two types of testing on their breeding cats:

1. DNA Test: To check for the known HCM mutation.
2. Echocardiogram: A regular heart ultrasound (often yearly) by a veterinary cardiologist to check the physical heart health of their breeding cats.

What genetic testing should a reputable breeder do?

When we at Kitty Land vet breeders, we require proof of genetic testing. Your breeder should be able to provide clear test results for the parent cats for, at a minimum:

• HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy): DNA test and/or regular echocardiograms.
• SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy): A DNA test for this neurological condition that affects hind limbs.
• PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease): A DNA test for this kidney condition.

They should also screen for hip dysplasia, which is common in large-breed cats and dogs. This is usually done via an X-ray on the parents before breeding.

What is the co-efficiency of inbreeding (COI)?

The COI (Co-efficiency of inbreeding) is a percentage that shows how closely related the kitten’s parents are. A lower number is generally considered better, as it indicates more genetic diversity. Many reputable breeders aim for a low COI to reduce the risk of hereditary health problems.

This is why a pedigreed cat is so important. A breeder can show you the “top 5” or 5-generation pedigree, which not only shows you the kitten’s champion bloodlines but also allows the breeder (and you) to analyze the COI.

How can I find a reputable Maine Coon breeder near me?

Finding a good breeder is the hardest part. You can spend months searching online, trying to tell the difference between a high-quality small cattery and a sophisticated scam. This is precisely why Kitty Land exists—we maintain a private, vetted list of the best Maine Coon breeders.

If you’re searching on your own, start by looking for breeders registered with TICA (The International Cat Association) or CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association). This isn’t a guarantee of quality, but it’s a starting point.

What are the red flags of a bad breeder or a scam?

This is critical. When you’re looking to buy maine coon kittens, watch for these red flags:

• Kittens are always available: Good breeders have waitlists.
• No genetic testing: This is a non-negotiable. If they can’t show you HCM, SMA, and PKD tests for the parents, walk away.
• Selling on Craigslist, Kijiji, or Facebook: Reputable breeders do not sell kittens on these platforms. They are full of scams and “backyard breeders.”
• “Affordable” or cheap prices: A low price is the biggest red flag. It means corners were cut on health, food, and vet care.
• No contract: A contract protects you, the breeder, and the kitten.
• Won’t do a video call: They should be proud to show you the mother cat and the kittens in their home environment.
• Lets kittens go before 12 weeks: This is a hallmark of a “kitten mill.”

What is a TICA or CFA registered breeder?

TICA and CFA are the world’s largest cat registries. A registered breeder agrees to follow that organization’s code of ethics and standards. When you get your kitten, it should come with a TICA or CFA registration slip, which proves it is a purebred Maine Coon.

Neither registry is inherently “better” for Maine Coons; many breeders are registered with both. It’s a sign of legitimacy.

What questions should I ask a Maine Coon breeder?

A good breeder will love your questions. Here’s what to ask:

1. Can I see the parents’ genetic test results for HCM, SMA, and PKD?
2. Do you screen the parents for hip dysplasia?
3. What do you do to socialize your kittens?
4. What is your health guarantee?
5. What food do you feed the kittens?
6. Can we schedule a video call to see the kittens and their mother?

A good breeder will also ask you questions! They’ll want to know about your home, your family, your work schedule, and your vet. This is a great sign—it means they care where their maine coon babies for sale are going.

How much does a Maine Coon kitten cost?

A purebred, pedigreed Maine Coon kitten from a reputable breeder typically costs between $2,500 and $4,500.

Why are Maine Coon kittens so expensive? The maine coon kitten prices reflect the immense cost that goes into ethical breeding. This includes:

• Health Testing: Genetic tests and heart/hip screenings for parents cost thousands.
• Vet Care: Vaccinations, deworming, and health checks for all kittens.
• High-Quality Food: Feeding a nursing mother and growing giant kittens is expensive.
• Registration: TICA/CFA registration fees.
• Time: Reputable breeders pour endless hours into socializing their kittens so you get a friendly, confident pet.

What is included in the price of a kitten?

The price should include:

• First and second sets of vaccinations.
• Deworming treatments.
• A veterinary health certificate.
• A written contract with a health guarantee.
• TICA or CFA registration papers (often provided after proof of spay/neuter).
• A “go-home” kit with food, toys, and a blanket.

The difference between “pet quality” and “show quality” price is based on how closely the kitten meets the official breed standard. Most kittens for sale are “pet quality,” which has no bearing on their health or temperament.

What are the ongoing costs of owning a Maine Coon?

While finding affordable maine coon kittens for purchase is rare, the real investment is the long-term care. Be prepared for:

• Food: This giant breed eats more than the average cat.
• Pet Insurance: Highly recommended. For a Maine Coon, this can be $40-$80+ per month.
• Vet Visits: Annual checkups and any emergencies.
• Grooming: Quality brushes, combs, and occasional professional grooming.
• Supplies: They need extra-large litter boxes, tall and sturdy scratching posts, and durable toys.

What is the typical process for buying a kitten?

The first step is to find a breeder and get on their waitlist. At Kitty Land, we streamline this by matching you with breeders who have maine coon kittens available (or upcoming litters) that fit your criteria.

1. Application: You’ll fill out an application.
2. Interview: The breeder (or our team) will talk with you.
3. Deposit: A deposit is required to reserve a kitten, which is usually non-refundable.
4. Waitlist: You’ll wait for a litter to be born. The average wait for a kitten can be 3 to 12 months.
5. Contract: Once you’ve chosen your maine coon kitten, you’ll sign a contract.
6. Go-Home Day: You’ll pick up your kitten when it’s ready.

What is in a breeder’s contract?

The contract is vital. It will always include a “spay/neuter” clause, which legally requires you to sterilize your pet kitten. This is because the breeder is selling you a companion, not a cat for breeding.

It will also detail the health guarantee. This typically lasts 1-3 years and covers genetic conditions like HCM. Finally, it must include a “return clause”—if you can ever no longer keep the cat, it must be returned to the breeder.

When can I bring my kitten home?

A reputable breeder will never let a kitten go home before 12 weeks of age. Many prefer 14-16 weeks.

This time is crucial for social and behavioral development. Kittens learn “how to be a cat” from their mother and siblings during this period. Taking them too early is a major cause of behavioral problems.

What supplies do I need to buy for a new kitten?

Before you bring your maine coon kitty for sale home, you need to be prepared.

• Food and Water Bowls: Ceramic or stainless steel are best.
• Litter Box: Get an extra-large or even a high-sided storage tote. They will outgrow standard boxes quickly.
• Litter: Ask the breeder what brand the kitten is already using.
• Scratching Posts: Plural! Get tall, sturdy posts that won’t wobble.
• Grooming Tools: A steel comb and a “pin” brush.
• Toys: Interactive “wand” toys are a Maine Coon favorite.
• Carrier: A large, sturdy carrier for vet visits.

How do I introduce a new kitten to my home?

The best way is with a “safe room.” For the first 48 hours (or up to a week), keep your new kitten in a smaller, quiet room (like a bathroom or guest room) with all its supplies. This lets them decompress and learn the new sights and smells from a secure space.

Why is my new kitten hiding? This is completely normal! They’ve just left their mother and siblings. Give them space, sit in the room quietly, and let them come to you.

When introducing a Maine Coon kitten to your resident dog or cat, do it slowly. Scent-swapping (trading blankets) is the first step, followed by feeding on opposite sides of the closed door, and finally, short, supervised visual meetings.

What is the best food for a Maine Coon kitten?

Maine Coon kittens need a high-protein, high-quality diet to support their large-scale growth. Feed a food specifically formulated for kittens for their entire first year.

Many breeders (and vets) recommend a mix of high-quality wet food and dry kibble. Should I feed my Maine Coon a raw diet? This is a personal choice that requires deep research. If you’re interested, you must consult a feline nutritionist to ensure the diet is balanced.

How often do Maine Coons need to be groomed?

You should brush your Maine Coon 2-3 times a week. Their long, shaggy fur is prone to matting, especially under the arms and on the belly. A steel comb is the best tool to get down to the skin and prevent mats. A “pin” brush is good for the topcoat.

Do I need to bathe my Maine Coon? Usually, no. They are clean cats. You may only need to bathe them if they get into something messy or if their coat (especially on a light-colored cat like a silver tabby) gets greasy.

What’s the difference between a “European” and “American” Maine Coon?

You may hear breeders talk about different “types.” This just refers to the “look” they are breeding for, as they are all one breed.

• American Maine Coons: This is the classic, “original” look. They tend to have a more moderate, sweet expression and a less pronounced muzzle.
• European Maine Coons: These cats are often bred for a more “feral” or “wild” look. They may have more extreme features, like very large, high-set ears with long lynx tips, a square muzzle, and a stronger brow.

What about Maine Coon adoption or rescue?

While most people look for maine coon baby kittens, Maine Coon adoption is a wonderful option. There are breed-specific maine coon rescues dedicated to finding homes for adult coons and maine coon mixes for sale.

If you’re open to an adult cat or a mix, a maine coon rescue can be a fantastic way to bring one of these gentle giants into your home. We at Kitty Land fully support and can help direct you to reputable maine coon kittens for adoption and rescue groups.