Maine Coon
The Good
- Gentle giants with dog-like personalities
- Excellent with children and other pets
- Highly intelligent and trainable
- Beautiful, water-resistant coat
The Real
- Requires regular grooming commitment
- Not typically lap cats despite their affection
- Prone to specific genetic health conditions
- Needs substantial space and enrichment
Gallery
Breed Overview
Meet Australia's gentle giants - Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed, and honestly, they're something special. These magnificent cats combine the best of both worlds: impressive size with incredibly sweet temperaments. Originally from America's harsh northeastern winters, they've adapted beautifully to Australian homes from the Gold Coast's humidity to Melbourne's changeable weather.
What makes Maine Coons truly unique is their dog-like personality. They'll follow you around the house, play fetch in your Brisbane backyard, and even enjoy splashing in water bowls during those scorching 40°C Sydney summer days. Unlike many cats, they're genuinely social creatures who thrive on family interaction without being clingy.
These cats are slow to mature, not reaching full size until 3-5 years old, which means you'll have an extended kittenhood to enjoy. They're perfect for Australian families who want a cat with personality plus - intelligent enough to learn tricks, gentle enough for toddlers, and independent enough to handle your work-from-home schedule. Whether you're in a spacious Perth home or a well-appointed Melbourne apartment, Maine Coons adapt remarkably well to different living situations.
History
The Maine Coon's story begins in America's northeastern states over 250 years ago, where harsh winters shaped these remarkable cats into the hardy survivors we know today. Despite romantic legends about raccoon ancestry (hence the "coon" name) or Marie Antoinette's escaped ship cats, Maine Coons are 100% domestic cat - just naturally evolved to be extraordinary.
These cats earned their keep as champion mousers on New England farms and ships, developing their impressive size and weather-resistant coats through natural selection. The breed gained official recognition when a brown tabby female named Cosey won America's first cat show at Madison Square Garden in 1895.
Interestingly, Maine Coons nearly disappeared in the early 1900s when Persian cats became fashionable, but dedicated breeders preserved the line. Today, they're one of the world's most beloved breeds, and Australia has embraced them wholeheartedly.
Their working-cat heritage explains so much about their personality - they're independent thinkers who form strong family bonds, love interactive play, and retain that "helpful" attitude that made them invaluable farm cats. This background makes them particularly well-suited to Australian family life, where they can channel their intelligence into being wonderful companions rather than just working cats.
Traits & Characteristics
Maine Coon characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Maine Coons are generally robust cats, but their size and genetics do present some health considerations that Australian owners should understand. The most significant concern is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition that affects many Maine Coons. Responsible breeders screen for this, and annual heart ultrasounds with your local vet can catch issues early.
Other genetic conditions include spinal muscular atrophy (which affects mobility but not quality of life), polycystic kidney disease, and hip dysplasia. The good news? Reputable Australian breeders increasingly test for these conditions, so ask about health screenings when choosing your kitten.
Australian Seasonal Care Considerations:
During those brutal 35°C+ summer days across northern Australia, Maine Coons need extra cooling support. Their thick coats, while beautiful, can cause overheating. Ensure excellent air circulation, consider cooling mats for their favourite Brisbane balcony spot, and always provide fresh water. Watch for excessive panting or lethargy - signs they need immediate cooling.
Winter care varies dramatically by region. In Canberra's frosty mornings, these cats actually thrive, but indoor heating can dry their coats. In tropical Darwin, focus on humidity control and ventilation rather than warmth. Perth's dry heat requires different care than Melbourne's humid summers.
For eastern state owners, tick prevention is crucial during warmer months, and rural families should be aware of snake season risks. Regular vet checkups every 6-12 months help catch any issues early, and pet insurance is worth considering given their potential for genetic conditions.
Maine Coons have straightforward nutritional needs, but their size means getting feeding right is crucial for long-term health. These cats benefit from high-quality protein-rich diets that support their substantial muscle mass while preventing the obesity that can worsen hip dysplasia.
The key is controlled portions rather than free-feeding. Adult Maine Coons typically need 200-400g of quality wet food daily, divided into two meals, but this varies significantly based on age, activity level, and individual metabolism. Your Adelaide vet can provide specific guidance based on your cat's body condition.
One charming Maine Coon quirk - they prefer extra-wide food bowls because of their impressive whiskers. Whisker fatigue from narrow bowls can actually put cats off their food, so invest in some spacious ceramic or stainless steel dishes. Many Melbourne pet stores now stock "Maine Coon specific" feeding bowls.
These water-loving cats often enjoy drinking from taps or water fountains, which is fantastic for kidney health in Australia's often dry climate. Don't be surprised if your Maine Coon dabbles their paws in their water bowl - it's perfectly normal behaviour that harks back to their fishing instincts.
During Australia's hot summers, wet food helps with hydration, while in cooler southern winters, you might notice increased appetite as they burn more energy staying warm. Always transition food changes gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset, and consider life-stage appropriate formulas as these slow-maturing cats transition from kitten to adult food around 12-18 months.
Maine Coons have truly spectacular coats that require commitment but aren't as high-maintenance as you might expect. Their weather-resistant fur naturally repels dirt and rarely mats like Persian coats do, but regular brushing 2-3 times weekly is essential for preventing tangles and managing seasonal shedding.
Invest in quality tools - a slicker brush for the topcoat and an undercoat rake for that fluffy underlayer. During spring shedding season (September-November in Australia), daily brushing prevents fur tumbleweeds around your Sunshine Coast apartment. Many owners find grooming sessions relaxing bonding time, especially if you start when they're young.
These cats actually enjoy baths more than most breeds, which is brilliant for Australian summers when dust and heat can make their coats feel heavy. A monthly bath during warmer months helps keep them comfortable, though over-bathing can strip natural oils. Use lukewarm water and cat-specific shampoos.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Long with varying lengths across the body - shorter on shoulders, longer on stomach and rear legs
- Coat Colours: Almost all colours except chocolate, lavender, and pointed patterns - from classic tabby to solid colours
- Coat Patterns: Tabby, solid, tortoiseshell, calico, and bicolour patterns widely available
- Hypoallergenic: No - they do shed and produce normal levels of allergens, though some people find them more tolerable
Pay special attention to ear cleaning, especially in humid coastal areas where ear infections can develop. Their large, tufted ears need gentle cleaning with vet-approved solutions, and nail trimming every 4-6 weeks keeps those impressive claws healthy.
Maine Coons are among the most trainable cat breeds, with intelligence levels that genuinely surprise first-time owners. These cats can learn their names, come when called, walk on harnesses around your local Canberra park, and even perform tricks like high-fives or fetch games in your backyard.
Start socialisation early and keep it positive. Maine Coons are naturally confident but benefit from exposure to different people, sounds, and experiences during kittenhood. This is particularly important in Australia's varied social environments - from busy Melbourne apartments to quieter regional properties.
Mental stimulation is crucial for these intelligent cats. Puzzle feeders work brilliantly for meal times, and interactive toys help prevent boredom-related behaviours. Many Perth owners find their Maine Coons love watching birds from secure balconies or enclosed patios - just ensure your setup is escape-proof and safe.
These cats excel at clicker training, responding well to positive reinforcement with treats and praise. They're food-motivated learners who enjoy the mental challenge of training sessions. Many Australian Maine Coon owners successfully teach recall, which is invaluable for indoor cats who might accidentally escape.
Physical enrichment matters too - tall, sturdy cat trees (at least 6 feet high) give them climbing opportunities, while horizontal scratching posts satisfy their ground-scratching preferences. Consider rotating toys weekly to maintain interest, and remember that Maine Coons often prefer interactive play with their humans over solo entertainment.
Who is an ideal owner?
Maine Coons suit Australian families who appreciate cats with personality and can commit to their grooming and space needs. They're perfect for households with children - their gentle nature and patience make them wonderful family cats who'll tolerate toddler attention while being playful enough for teenagers.
These cats thrive with owners who are home regularly, whether that's work-from-home professionals in Sydney's inner suburbs, retirees in Queensland's coastal towns, or families with school-age children. They don't demand constant attention but genuinely enjoy being part of daily family life.
Space-wise, they suit larger apartments or houses better than tiny studios. A secure balcony in Melbourne's high-rises or a safely enclosed garden in Perth's suburbs gives them environmental enrichment. They're excellent for multi-pet households, often becoming best friends with dogs and other cats.
Maine Coons work well for first-time cat owners who've done their research and can handle grooming requirements. They're also perfect for experienced cat people who want a breed with more interactive personality than typical cats offer.
Consider your lifestyle honestly - these cats live 12-15 years and need consistent care. They're ideal for stable households rather than university students or frequent travellers. If you're renting in Australia's competitive market, ensure your lease allows pets, as Maine Coons' size might concern some landlords unfamiliar with the breed.
Interesting facts about the Maine Coon
Interesting Fact
Maine Coons hold multiple world records, including longest domestic cat (123 cm from nose to tail tip)
Interesting Fact
Many are polydactyl, meaning they have extra toes that work like natural snowshoes
Interesting Fact
They're one of the few cat breeds that genuinely enjoys water and may join you in the shower
Interesting Fact
Maine Coons rarely meow - instead they chirp, trill, and chatter in conversations with their families
FAQ
Maine Coons typically cost between $1,500-$4,000 AUD from reputable breeders, with show-quality cats reaching higher prices. Factor in ongoing costs like premium food ($800+ yearly), grooming supplies, and potential health issues when budgeting.
Absolutely! They're excellent with children and other pets, highly intelligent, and adaptable to indoor living. Their gentle nature and trainability make them ideal family companions, though they need space and enrichment to stay happy.
Males typically weigh 7-11 kg while females range 4.5-7 kg. They're impressively long cats too, often reaching 100cm from nose to tail tip. Remember, they don't reach full size until 3-5 years old.
Their grooming needs are moderate - 2-3 brushing sessions weekly prevent matting and control shedding. They're otherwise low-maintenance cats with laid-back personalities, though their intelligence means they need mental stimulation.
Yes, but they need adequate space and enrichment. A larger apartment with secure balcony access works well, especially if you're home regularly. They're quieter than many breeds and generally respectful of neighbours.
Surprisingly well with proper care! Ensure excellent air conditioning during 35°C+ days, provide cooling mats, and consider professional grooming in summer. Their coats actually provide some heat protection, but they need help staying cool.
Like all cats, they have hunting instincts, so keep them indoors or in secure enclosures to protect native birds and small mammals. Many councils require cat containment, making this both a legal and ethical consideration.
Brush 2-3 times weekly year-round, daily during spring shedding season (September-November). Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps during summer months, and monthly baths are often welcomed by these water-loving cats.