Maine Coon — breed guide
The gentle giant of cats — big, shaggy and famously good with everyone.
At a glance
- Group
- longhair
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 4.5–9 kg (10–20 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Long, shaggy, water-resistant double coat
Living with a Maine Coon
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Heavy shedding, especially in season.
- Quick to learn.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Generally content living with another cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Sensitive to heat; keep summer walks short.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Gentle · Sociable · Dog-like
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
Maine Coons chirp and trill more than they meow.
Questions people ask
Is a Maine Coon good with kids?
Generally yes. Maine Coons are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Maine Coon good with other cats?
Usually yes. Maine Coons generally settle well with another cat, given a proper introduction and their own food, bed and tray.
How much exercise does a Maine Coon need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Maine Coon handle hot weather?
It is sensitive; avoid the midday heat.
Leash Life keeps a Maine Coon's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.