Maine Coon
The dog of the cat world — huge, shaggy, and far too friendly to sulk.
Vital stats
| Size | Large · body 25–41 cm tall |
| Weight | 4–8 kg · toms often heavier |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Energy | Moderate — playful, not frantic |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy, seasonal |
| Coat | Long, shaggy, water-resistant |
| Group | Longhair |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Maine Coons act less like aloof cats and more like a dog that happens to purr. They pick a person, follow them from room to room, and want in on whatever you're doing — usually narrating it in chirps and trills rather than meows. They stay playful for years (kittenhood runs to about four), take to harness walks and fetch, and are patient enough for children and confident enough to share a house with dogs. Big, yes, but soft: this is a lap cat that no longer quite fits the lap.
Habits & quirks
Water paws
Many will dunk toys, paw at running taps, or drink from a moving stream — a leftover of that weatherproof coat.
The trill
Instead of meowing they chirp and trill, keeping up a running commentary as they trail you around the house.
Slow grower
Won't reach full size until three or four — expect a gangly 'teenager' stage that lasts a while.
Fetch and walks
Bright and biddable enough for clicker tricks, harness walks and a genuine game of fetch.
Care
| Grooming | Comb the coat two or three times a week — more in spring shed — paying attention to the britches and the ruff, where mats form. |
| Health | A responsible breeder screens for HCM (a heart condition) and hip dysplasia, both seen in the breed; ask to see the results. |
| Play & space | Big cat, big furniture: a sturdy tall tree, room to run, and daily play keep the weight off and the mischief down. |
| Feeding | Large frame and slow growth mean steady, measured meals; watch portions once they hit adulthood to avoid piling on weight. |
Common questions
Are Maine Coons good with children and dogs?
Unusually so. They're sturdy, patient and social, which is why they're a common pick for busy family homes with kids and dogs — supervise early introductions as you would with any pet.
How big do Maine Coons actually get?
Females run 4–6 kg, males often 6–8 kg or more, with a long body and tail that make them look bigger still. The record-holders you see online are outliers, not the norm.
Do Maine Coons need a lot of grooming?
Less than you'd think for the coat length — it's silkier and less prone to matting than a Persian's. A thorough comb a couple of times a week keeps it healthy.