🦁 Cat breed

Maine Coon: breed facts, care and health

One of the largest domestic cat breeds. The "gentle giant" — very docile despite its size.

✍️ CanlıDostum Editorial Team📅 October 22, 2026⏱️ 3 min read

⚡ At a glance

  • Adult weight: Male 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) · Female 4–6 kg (9–13 lb)
  • Life expectancy: 12–15 years
  • Activity: Moderate · 2 play sessions a day
  • Best suited to: Families, homes with children or dogs

Key facts

OriginUSA (Maine)
HeightLarge; up to about 1 m (40 in) including tail
Adult weightMale 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) · Female 4–6 kg (9–13 lb)
Life expectancy12–15 years
Activity needsModerate · 2 play sessions a day
CoatLong, thick, water-resistant; regular brushing
Best suited toFamilies, homes with children or dogs

Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.

Temperament

Maine Coons are friendly, calm and playful, getting on with children and dogs. They mature slowly and may only reach full size at 3–5 years.

Daily exercise

Two play sessions a day and a sturdy, large cat tree. Some love playing with water.

🏃Log play time with the activity tracker and see weekly totals.
For Maine Coon ownersVaccines, weight, meals and play in one app.
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Feeding

Extra weight strains the joints of this big cat; make sure ribs stay easy to feel.

Example: a neutered adult Maine Coon at an ideal weight of 6.5 kg (14 lb) needs roughly 340 kcal a day (RER × 1.2). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.

Common health problems

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): a breed-specific genetic test exists
  • Hip dysplasia: rare in cats but more common in this breed
  • Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA): genetic test available
  • Gum disease
🚨Not every Maine Coon will have these problems; the list shows conditions seen more often in the breed. If you notice symptoms, or are getting a puppy or kitten, ask about the parents' health screening and plan regular check-ups with your vet.

Care tips

  • Brush 2–3 times a week, especially belly and hind legs
  • Large, sturdy litter box
  • Yearly heart check
  • Ask about the parents' HCM screening when buying a kitten
🪪Microchip your pet and keep your contact details up to date — in many countries it is required by law.

Frequently asked questions

How big do Maine Coons get?

Males usually weigh 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) and females 4–6 kg (9–13 lb). Weight should come from frame, not fat.

When do Maine Coons stop growing?

They mature slowly and can reach full size at 3–5 years.

Can a Maine Coon live in an apartment?

Yes, with enough play, a large cat tree and attention.

⚠️This page is for general information and is based on FCI and AKC breed standards and general veterinary sources such as WSAVA, the AVMA and the Merck Veterinary Manual. It does not replace an examination or advice from a veterinarian.

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