⚡ 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
| Origin | USA (Maine) |
|---|---|
| Height | Large; up to about 1 m (40 in) including tail |
| Adult weight | Male 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) · Female 4–6 kg (9–13 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Activity needs | Moderate · 2 play sessions a day |
| Coat | Long, thick, water-resistant; regular brushing |
| Best suited to | Families, 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.
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
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
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.