Emily Flores
Maine Coons often capture hearts with their playful nature and impressive size. These furry companions come with unique needs and quirks that deserve attention. So, taking a moment to reflect on the realities of their care and lifestyle can prevent surprises down the road. Here’s a look at 10 important points to consider before bringing a Maine Coon home.
Escape Artists
These cats are like little engineers who quickly figure out how to unlatch doors or sneak out windows. Because of their strength and persistence, it’s smart to secure openings, especially in multi-story homes. Moreover, their love of exploration can lead to risky, unplanned adventures.
Oversized Litter Needs
Standard litter boxes often feel like a tight squeeze for a Maine Coon. Therefore, they need high-sided, oversized trays to prevent messes. A tight fit leads to missed spots or litter flung across the floor. Some owners also switch to self-cleaning boxes to handle the extra volume and daily cleanup.
Travel Challenges
Traveling with a Maine Coon isnât simple. Most carriers donât fit their size, and air travel can be tricky with weight restrictions. From finding the right bag to navigating airline policies, every step is a hassle. Even by car, the stress of movement and noise can rattle them. Calming sprays or familiar items may help, but itâs still a challenge.
Destructive Playfulness
Although Maine Coons love to play, their strength can make things chaotic. They often topple objects, scale cabinets, and leave claw marks. Without scratching posts or climbing zones, theyâll find their own outlets, usually at your furnitureâs expense. Toys and towers are essential to redirect all that energy.
Requires Space
Though Maine Coons can adapt to apartment life, their size and energy demand more than just floor space. These cats need room to roam, climb, and perch. Without vertical space or designated zones, even a large home can feel too small for those natural instincts.
High Grooming Demands
Grooming a Maine Coon means committing to regular brushing, usually two to three times weekly. Their thick coat tangles fast without it, leading to discomfort. Fortunately, they generally tolerate baths better than other cats, which can help keep their long fur clean and healthy.
Separation Anxiety
Maine Coons form deep bonds with their humans, so being left alone for long periods can take a toll. Some vocalize loudly or chew on furniture out of stress. Others lose their appetiteâor eat more than usual. Either way, the emotional impact is hard to miss.
Endless Chatter
Expect constant commentary. Maine Coons aren’t quiet companionsâthey chirp, trill, and vocalize at all hours. This ongoing âconversationâ can be charming or overwhelming, especially if youâre sensitive to noise. For those craving a peaceful home, all that chatter might wear thin fast.
Fur Everywhere
Hope you like wearing furâbecause you will. That luxurious coat comes with nonstop shedding, and no surface is safe. Forget black outfits and spotless couches. With a Maine Coon around, you’re basically living in a snow globe of cat hair.
Bigger Appetite
Maine Coons have appetites as big as their bodies. Consequently, they need more calories than the average catâtypically around 25 to 35 calories per pound of body weight. However, overfeeding can lead to weight problems, so itâs important to measure portions carefully.