Maine coons stand out due to their imposing size. They are also rumored to have dog-like personalities. Those are probably among the reasons many prospective cat owners wonder if Maine coon is a good breed for beginners, including first-time cat owners and novice pet owners, in general.
Maine coons are a great choice for a first-time cat owner. These cats are sociable, great with children, interactive, and playful, and they get along well with other household pets. It is important to keep in mind that Maine coons shed quite a bit and may need regular brushing. They are also very intelligent and form a bond with the owner, so it is important to spend time petting and playing with your cat.
Of course, every animal is very individual, so there is great variation in the personalities and characteristics of our pets. We do make some generalizations when discussing a breed in general.
TRAITS THAT MAKE MAINE COONS GREAT FOR BEGINNERS
Friendly, Interactive Personality
Maine coons are bright, cheerful, sociable, and known to be very dog-like cats in their typical behaviors.
These cats have a very high working intelligence and can learn a multitude of behaviors, and even commands and tricks. They are very interactive and often owner-oriented, which helps them learn to communicate with people.
Maine coons are cuddly and so fun to pet. At the same time, they are quite independent when needed and can find something to do around the house when you are busy.
Good With Kids And Household Pets
As a breed, Maine coons are sociable and friendly. In addition, they are patient and sweet around young children.
Maine coons tolerate a high level of noise and other stimuli and are known as cats who are not quick to snap or react. Relatively low reactivity is so important if you have young kids or small animals at home.
It is important to emphasize that any interactions between young children and pets should always be supervised, even if your pet is very calm and patient.
Maine coons adapt to any environment. They do very well either in the home of a solo adult with no other pets or a large family with several kiddos and pets.
Relatively Low-Maintenance
Surprisingly, these large felines do not need that much in terms of maintenance, at least in terms of their behaviors.
Let’s note that what some people consider low-maintenance could be rather overwhelming for other people – it is relative. However, if you are new to cats, a Maine coon could even be easier to welcome and keep than many other cats for several reasons:
- Maine coons are usually good at using the litter box appropriately
- They are not known to have major behavioral issues
- As we discussed above, they adapt well to various household environments and living arrangements
Of course, Maine coons do shed and they need some care for their beautiful fur, but it is not very extensive and we’ll discuss it further.
Good With Using The Litter Box
There is no way to avoid this aspect of having a kitty in your house! Cats come with a litter box.
Luckily, Maine coon are usually really disciplined in this sense. They do a good job going to the bathroom appropriately and have few soiling issues unless your cat is stressed or ill.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU WELCOME A MAINE COON
Maine Coons Are Vocal
Maine coons are known for their trilling and chirping. Their trill is adorable and most people who love cats also love the sounds these felines produce. They are chatty cats.
On the other hand, Maine coons do not meow very often, unless they need to communicate a need. So, that is a tradeoff most people are willing to make.
Consider Possible Health Issues
Maine coons are, in fact, a healthy breed. Any genetically inherited conditions are less likely to show up in a cat that is half Maine coon, rather than a purebred cat.
If you choose to purchase a kitten from a breeder, do your best to find a reputable breeder. Good breeders are kind to their animals and make sure to avoid breeding kitties who have genetic health problems.
The following are some of the most common genetic conditions affecting Maine coons:
- Hip dysplasia: it cannot be prevented but a healthy diet and weight promote joint health in general. Hip dysplasia and bad joints cause pain and eventually limit mobility. Surgical correction is possible but recovery is difficult. Most cats with hip dysplasia need medications to control pain but can live otherwise normal lives.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is another common. The problem becomes evident as the cat ages. The common first signs are fatigue and lethargy. As the condition progresses, it can be fatal.
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy: it affects kittens and causes impaired mobility of the lower limbs.
- Polycystic kidney disease: the problem is common in Maine coons and is likely to manifest itself when the animal is older. It can be managed with medications, diet, and subcutaneous fluids, but expect frequent trips to the vet for lab work. Life expectancy is shorter with this condition.
Maine Coons Are Relatively Expensive
Maine coons are an expensive breed to purchase and relatively expensive to maintain.
If you adopt your kitty from a shelter, you would pay a fraction of the cost, of course. Shelters often have pure or mixed-breed kittens and mature cats, so checking your local shelter is always a good idea.
One of the advantages of rescuing an animal from a shelter is that the cats often come with a behavioral profile prepared by staff. People who work in shelters know the animals well and provide valuable insights into their behaviors.
In addition to the initial cost of getting your kitten, purchasing the supplies, and estimating veterinarian care and pet insurance costs. Other miscellaneous costs include pet sitters, paying fees for pet-friendly hotels, flying with your cat, and so on.
Maine Coons Need Things To Do
The fact that Maine coons are very large felines is one of the reasons people find them so fascinating. Frankly, the fact that they occupy more space than most cats is not as important as the fact these kitties are very bright, curious, and adventurous. They like to explore, so you will need to find some way for your Maine coon to stay active.
If you have a secure yard, it is a fabulous feature for a Maine coon – the cat will love venturing out. If you can talk your cat outside, on a leash if your pet tolerates that, it could be a way to keep your smart feline mentally and physically stimulated.
The bottom line is that your Maine coon will get bored if he or she has nothing to do. Provide them with attention and plenty of cat toys to play with at home. Cats love cat trees – get a sturdy cat tree suitable for large cats.
Main Coons Shed And Need Brushing
This aspect of Maine coon’s is not breed-specific. They are fluffy and they shed, although, as a rule, furry cats do not shed more than short-haired ones. Their fur is just more noticeable.
- You will need to brush your coon regularly to keep the coat nice and silky and prevent matting.
- Expect to have to do some regular housekeeping because Main coons do shed, although not any more than most breeds. Regular brushing prevents the spreading of hair around the house. These cats’ hair is noticeable because it is long and thick but a simple vacuum cleaner picks it up easily.
- Even if your Maine coon does not go outside, the cat will develop a winter coat for the cold season. Be prepared for some heavier shedding during the cold season.
- Keep their litter box clean, and make sure it is a box large enough for your cat, otherwise he could have accidents.
- Just something that will happen to your cat at least on occasion: fluffy cats get poop stuck on the fur of their hind legs. Cats are clean animals and generally take care of themselves to maintain a clean appearance. However, dry feces can get stuck and go unnoticed by the cat for some time. Some cat owners choose to trim the fur in the vulnerable area of their pet but it is not usually necessary.
To Conclude
Maine coons require a commitment just like any other pet that is joining your household. There could be some individual issues that are not even common for the breed as a whole.
In general, however, Maine coons are excellent cats for a first-time cat owner who loves animals and is ready to learn and have some challenges on occasion.
