Care and Medical Needs

The Maine Coon coat is fairly long and flowing, but it normally doesn't need more than a weekly brushing as they are mostly self-grooming. If they are not brushed, matting of thier coat will occur and will need special care to remove them. The Maine Coon will enjoy a lengthly brushing session as they roll, sniff, and play with the brush and can associate the activity as play time.

Most Maine Coons can be trained to accept a leash as they are creatures of habit and train easily if they associate the activity with something they want. Beware as this is a two-way road since they train humans easily too! Some Maine Coon owners can easily claim that their Maine Coon owns the house while their people take care of the business end of the payment.

Individuals within any breed are fairly closely related, and have many characteristics in common. This includes genetic strengths and weaknesses. Certain genetic health disorders may be more or less of a problem in a particular breed than in other breeds. For example, a breed may have a slightly higher incidence of gum disease than the cat population as a whole, but have a lower incidence of heart disease or liver disease.

Genetic problems generally only affect a tiny minority of the breed as a whole, but since they can be eradicated by careful screening, reputable breeders try to track such problems, both in their breeding stock and the kittens they produce. By working with a responsible breeder who will speak openly about health issues, you are encouraging sound breeding practices and help assure that breeders are honest and dedicated to the breed.

In the Maine Coon, the most common inherited health problems are hip dysplasia, which can produce lameness in a severely affected cat, and cardiomyopathy, which can produce anything from a minor heart murmur to severe heart trouble. Any breeder you talk to should be willing to discuss whether they've had any problems with these diseases in their breeding stock or in kittens they've produced.

As with any cat, please consult your cat's veterinarian with any suspected medical problem, schedule periodic checkups, and be alert to any sudden changes in your cat's general health. Your dedication to your cat's well being will enrich both of your lives and encourage a longer and healthier life for both of you.