The Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a breed of domestic cat with a distinctive physical appearance. It is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, specifically native to the state of Maine, where it is the official State Cat. Although the Maine Coon's exact origins and date of introduction to the United States are unknown, many theories have been proposed. The breed was popular in cat shows in the late 19th century, but its existence became threatened when long-haired breeds from overseas were introduced in the early 20th century. The Maine Coon has since made a comeback and is now one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. The Maine Coon is noted for its large bone structure, rectangular body shape, and long, flowing coat. The breed can be seen in a variety of colors and is known for its intelligence and gentle personality
Q: What are some of the characteristics of the Maine Coons?
A: Maine Coons are known as the "gentle giants" and possess above-average intelligence, making them relatively easy to train. They are known for being loyal to their family and cautious—but not mean—around strangers, but are independent and not clingy. The Maine Coon is generally not known for being a "lap cat" but their gentle disposition makes the breed relaxed around dogs, other cats, and children. They are playful throughout their lives, with males tending to be more clownish and females generally possessing more dignity, yet both are equally affectionate. Many Maine Coons have a fascination with water and some theorize that this personality trait comes from their ancestors, who were aboard ships for much of their lives. Maine Coons are also well known for yowling, chattering, chirping, "talking" (especially "talking back" to their owners), and making other loud vocalizations.
Q: Are all Maine Coon cats loving, calm and docile?
A: NO. Every kitten will have its own personality and there may be an aggressive type in any litter. However, this is not common and reputable breeders such as our self’s do breed for temperament that holds true to the Maine Coon breed. The first 12 weeks of a kitten's life shape its behaviour later on in life. If the kitten is raised with its mother, other pets and a friendly atmosphere including regular human contact, the kitten should be well socialized.
Q: What is the life expectancy of the average Maine Coon cat?
A: Lifespan is usually 12 - 18 years and they are generally a very healthy breed.
Q: Which sex makes a better pet, a boy or a girl?
A: Both males and females make wonderful pets. There is little variation in their personalities, once they have been de-sexed. The boys usually won’t spray once desexed. It all comes down to individual personalities. Some "generalized" cat care books state that males are more extraverted and more apt to adapt themselves with strangers. And, females are said to be more stand offish and need more time to bond with their owners or adapt to company or strangers. We have found that with the Maine Coon breed this is not always necessarily so. Part of the intrigue with Maine Coon in general is how wonderful they are with their human companions. Their main difference is size, being the boys are bigger than the girls by a couple of kilos.
Q: Why should I buy a pedigree cat from a breeder?
A: Most breeders will work on their line of breed to improve on their health, their temperament, their size and their looks, they do this by raising their breeders from kittens and knowing there background and pedigree so they are able to select the best breeders in the future. In the long run every one ends up with a stronger, healthier and better looking kitten with a great temperament.
Q: Why are pedigree cats so high priced?
A: Breeders work very hard to produce healthy, social kittens and most of your payment covers expenses such as food, litter, vet care and the obtaining of a well bred kitten. Most breeders feel payment is a reward, not a money making business.
Q: I saw a Maine Coon in a Pet Store, why is that not a good kitten to buy?
A: It is very simple, any person who would place their kittens into a pet store does not care about their babies. If they do not care who has their kittens, then just imagine how the kittens were raised. Breeders place their kittens into pet stores because they can make a quick sale, spend less money on the kitten, and not have to worry about guarantees if something should happen to the baby. On top of all this, pet stores normally charge more than one of your local breeders because they are acting as a broker and need to make money as well. In the long run, most kittens purchased in this manner end up with behaviour problems from leaving their mothers too young, health problems from the conditions they were raised in, and socialization problems from lack of love when they were tiny.
Q: Do you sell un-desexed cats?
A: No, I don't let any of my kittens go until they're desexed, unless he/she is going to a registered Breeder.
Q: Is it safe to early neuter and spay?
A: Yes, it is very safe, and easier on kittens than older kittens or adult. The concept of early spaying and neutering is not a new one, it has been practiced for over 50 years in North America and is endorsed by the American Veterinary Medical Association. There are huge benefits to altering such as; spaying a female can actually protect her against mammary cancer and uterine infections. In males, neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and enlargement of the prostate and related infections, as well as the spraying that a whole male will do.
There are many other positives, for more information, please read Early Spaying / Neutering in the cat on our Info page.
Q: Should I adopt one kitten or two?
A: It is recommend adopting two kittens at the same time if possible for many different reasons.
1. The main reason is if you have two cats, they can keep each other company and will never be lonely. Maine Coon cats are very affectionate and love constant companions. But don't worry they will still love their humans just as much!
2. The second cat does not demand much more work than having only one cat.
3. Cats love to play and having a companion with them will keep your cat in better shape and better health from exercise!
4. Two cats together will create a wonderful bond between them and will help keep each other clean with helpful grooming in those hard to reach places :-)
5. Cats also tend to have less destructive habits when they are not bored. Having another cat around gives mental and physical stimulation.
6. And most of all.... you get twice as much love!!!!
Q: Is it first come first serve?
A: No, I usually have a waiting list so the people on the list will have first priority.
Q: How do I go about putting my name down for a Maine Coon kitten?
A: You can either phone or email me. There is usually a waiting list, but not always. I would like to know a little about yourself and your family before I put anyone on my waiting list. I’m sure you can understand that I only want the best for our kittens.
Q: When do I need to pay my deposit?
A: You can pay your deposit once you've chosen your kitten or made your definite decision on owning one. Once you've made your decision you can pay via bank deposit or in person. All deposits for pets are $100 non refundable and for Breeders $500 non refundable if you change your mind.
Q: Can we visit your home again and see our new Maine Coon kitten after we have paid a deposit?
A: Yes, you and your family are more than welcome to visit. I send regular photos and updates via email, but you can visit as often as you wish. Just phone ahead. Don't forget your cameras.
Q: When can I pick up my Maine Coon kitten?
A: Our babies are ready to leave home at 10-12 weeks of age.
Q: Why do I need to wait until the Maine Coon kitten is 10-12 weeks old before I can pick the kitten up?
A: I get the kittens desexed at 10-11 weeks of age and they need time to heal. They also need to be mature enough to leave the comfort of their mother for a happy and healthy life.
Q: When are their vaccinations due?
A: They have their first vaccination at 8wks of age and a second at 12wks then yearly after that.
Q: Are the kittens litter trained before they go home?
A: Yes, all my kittens are fully litter trained before they leave.
Q: What sort of food do they eat?
A: We feed them Hills Science Diet Kitten mix dry food and VIP Gourmet mince. They also enjoy steak, chicken and steamed fish. Chicken necks or wings are good for maintaining healthy teeth. I will give more info when you get your kitten. DO NOT give them cow's milk.
Q: Why can't I give milk to my Maine Coon kitten?
A: Cats are lactose intolerant; any milk product will upset their stomach and make them sick.
Q: Will you sell Maine Coon kittens interstate or overseas?
A: Yes I do but I don't allow my kittens on a plane until they are at least 13-14 weeks old.
Q: Can a Maine Coon kitten be trained similar to that of a dog?
A: YES. Many of our new owners have written back to us how their Maine Coon cat will walk on a leash, play fetch with a ball and beg for a treat. Since the Maine Coon cat likes to please its owners, almost anything may be possible especially if started at a young age.
Q: Do they like riding in the car?
A: Yes, if you start them at an early age they will love it.
Q: Do Maine Coon cat get along well with other animals?
A: Actually, yes, very well. If they are introduced slowly, they will hiss at first, but usually after a week or so they become good buddies. Maine Coon cat are extremely inquisitive, and have very little hesitation in meeting new animals. Just as long as the existing animal is friendly and gentle, then there should be no problems.
Q: Will they scratch the furniture?
A: All cats need to scratch their claws on something, so make sure you get them a scratching post or they will find something else to use instead, like furniture.
Q: Should you bath a Maine Coon cat?
A: The Maine Coon cat has a curiosity with water, many Maine Coon cats actually enjoy being bathed, so long as they have started this process early on in life.
Q: Are you still involved with the kitten once he/she goes to their homes?
A: Yes if you want me to be. Any questions or problems please let me know and I'll do my best to help. Even if its a few years down the track. I always love getting photos and updates on them as well, so feel free to email some through from time to time. (Please!)
Q: Do Maine Coon cat lose a lot of fur and how much grooming do they need?
A: Grooming a Maine Coon cat doesn't have to be done often, as they're very fastidious in the self-cleaning department and a weekly combing is all that is usually required to keep the coat in top condition.
Q: The house is empty most days, will the Maine Coon kitten be lonely?
A: If it's just usual work or school hours, they should be fine. Although they would prefer company, whether it be humans or animals. If you work away or long hours, you would be better off with 2 pets or maybe look at a different breed. They really do love company and it would be cruel to leave them on their own.
Q: I'm interested in breeding, are you able to help?
A: Only if you are serious about breeding and have the best interest of the Maine Coon cat breed in mind, I am only too happy to help. You must be a registered breeder and abide by the QFA Code of Ethics. I won't sell to anyone who is trying to make money from the cats by selling kittens to pet shops or not desexing there kittens before letting them go.
Q: What kind of litter do you recommend using?
A: We highly recommend breeders choice or Oz-Pet Litter . http://www.oz-pet.net.au
Q: What happens if I want to change the food that my kitten is eating?
A: We recommend feeding your Maine Coon cat Hills Science Diet kitten dry food until he or she has reached at least one year of age. If in this time you choose to change the kitten's food dramatically, it could cause some stomach upset or diarrhoea. What we recommend is a gradual transition, adding a bit more each day, slowly mixing in a little of the new food with their existing food until completely switched over. This usually takes approximately two weeks. There are many good foods on the market, but of course we want to see our kittens only eating "premium" quality kitten foods.
Q: Is it true that people affected by allergies will not be affected by the Maine Coon cat breed of cats?
A: FALSE. Allergies from cats do not come from the hair, rather it is found in cat Dander (Dried skin, a bit like dandruff). Therefore if you have an allergy to cats, this will hold as true for the Maine Coon cat breed as it does for the hairless Sphynx.
Q: I am having litter box problems with my Maine Coon, what can I do?
A: See the following article by Susan Little, D.V.M., Diplomat ABVD..Feline Practice
A Practical Approach To Feline House-soiling
The Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a breed of domestic cat with a distinctive physical appearance. It is one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, specifically native to the state of Maine, where it is the official State Cat. Although the Maine Coon's exact origins and date of introduction to the United States are unknown, many theories have been proposed. The breed was popular in cat shows in the late 19th century, but its existence became threatened when long-haired breeds from overseas were introduced in the early 20th century. The Maine Coon has since made a comeback and is now one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. The Maine Coon is noted for its large bone structure, rectangular body shape, and long, flowing coat. The breed can be seen in a variety of colors and is known for its intelligence and gentle personality
Q: What are some of the characteristics of the Maine Coons?
A: Maine Coons are known as the "gentle giants" and possess above-average intelligence, making them relatively easy to train. They are known for being loyal to their family and cautious—but not mean—around strangers, but are independent and not clingy. The Maine Coon is generally not known for being a "lap cat" but their gentle disposition makes the breed relaxed around dogs, other cats, and children. They are playful throughout their lives, with males tending to be more clownish and females generally possessing more dignity, yet both are equally affectionate. Many Maine Coons have a fascination with water and some theorize that this personality trait comes from their ancestors, who were aboard ships for much of their lives. Maine Coons are also well known for yowling, chattering, chirping, "talking" (especially "talking back" to their owners), and making other loud vocalizations
Q: Are all Maine Coon cats loving, calm and docile?
A: NO. Every kitten will have its own personality and there may be an aggressive type in any litter. However, this is not common and reputable breeders such as our self’s do breed for temperament that holds true to the Maine Coon breed. The first 12 weeks of a kitten's life shape its behaviour later on in life. If the kitten is raised with its mother, other pets and a friendly atmosphere including regular human contact, the kitten should be well socialized.
Q: What is the life expectancy of the average Maine Coon cat?
A: Lifespan is usually 12 - 18 years and they are generally a very healthy breed.
Q: Which sex makes a better pet, a boy or a girl?
A: Both males and females make wonderful pets. There is little variation in their personalities, once they have been de-sexed. The boys usually won’t spray once desexed. It all comes down to individual personalities. Some "generalized" cat care books state that males are more extraverted and more apt to adapt themselves with strangers. And, females are said to be more stand offish and need more time to bond with their owners or adapt to company or strangers. We have found that with the Maine Coon breed this is not always necessarily so. Part of the intrigue with Maine Coon in general is how wonderful they are with their human companions. Their main difference is size, being the boys are bigger than the girls by a couple of kilos.
Q: Why should I buy a pedigree cat from a breeder?
A: Most breeders will work on their line of breed to improve on their health, their temperament, their size and their looks, they do this by raising their breeders from kittens and knowing there background and pedigree so they are able to select the best breeders in the future. In the long run every one ends up with a stronger, healthier and better looking kitten with a great temperament.
Q: Why are pedigree cats so high priced?
A: Breeders work very hard to produce healthy, social kittens and most of your payment covers expenses such as food, litter, vet care and the obtaining of a well bred kitten. Most breeders feel payment is a reward, not a money making business.
Q: I saw a Maine Coon in a Pet Store, why is that not a good kitten to buy?
A: It is very simple, any person who would place their kittens into a pet store does not care about their babies. If they do not care who has their kittens, then just imagine how the kittens were raised. Breeders place their kittens into pet stores because they can make a quick sale, spend less money on the kitten, and not have to worry about guarantees if something should happen to the baby. On top of all this, pet stores normally charge more than one of your local breeders because they are acting as a broker and need to make money as well. In the long run, most kittens purchased in this manner end up with behaviour problems from leaving their mothers too young, health problems from the conditions they were raised in, and socialization problems from lack of love when they were tiny.
Q: Do you sell un-desexed cats?
A: No, I don't let any of my kittens go until they're desexed, unless he/she is going to a registered Breeder.
Q: Is it safe to early neuter and spay?
A: Yes, it is very safe, and easier on kittens than older kittens or adult. The concept of early spaying and neutering is not a new one, it has been practiced for over 50 years in North America and is endorsed by the American Veterinary Medical Association. There are huge benefits to altering such as; spaying a female can actually protect her against mammary cancer and uterine infections. In males, neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and enlargement of the prostate and related infections, as well as the spraying that a whole male will do.
There are many other positives, for more information, please read Early Spaying / Neutering in the cat on our Info page.
Q: Should I adopt one kitten or two?
A: It is recommend adopting two kittens at the same time if possible for many different reasons.
1. The main reason is if you have two cats, they can keep each other company and will never be lonely. Maine Coon cats are very affectionate and love constant companions. But don't worry they will still love their humans just as much!
2. The second cat does not demand much more work than having only one cat.
3. Cats love to play and having a companion with them will keep your cat in better shape and better health from exercise!
4. Two cats together will create a wonderful bond between them and will help keep each other clean with helpful grooming in those hard to reach places :-)
5. Cats also tend to have less destructive habits when they are not bored. Having another cat around gives mental and physical stimulation.
6. And most of all.... you get twice as much love!!!!
Q: Is it first come first serve?
A: No, I usually have a waiting list so the people on the list will have first priority.
Q: How do I go about putting my name down for a Maine Coon kitten?
A: You can either phone or email me. There is usually a waiting list, but not always. I would like to know a little about yourself and your family before I put anyone on my waiting list. I’m sure you can understand that I only want the best for our kittens.
Q: When do I need to pay my deposit?
A: You can pay your deposit once you've chosen your kitten or made your definite decision on owning one. Once you've made your decision you can pay via bank deposit or in person. All deposits for pets are $100 non refundable and for Breeders $500 non refundable if you change your mind.
Q: Can we visit your home again and see our new Maine Coon kitten after we have paid a deposit?
A: Yes, you and your family are more than welcome to visit. I send regular photos and updates via email, but you can visit as often as you wish. Just phone ahead. Don't forget your cameras.
Q: When can I pick up my Maine Coon kitten?
A: Our babies are ready to leave home at 10-12 weeks of age.
Q: Why do I need to wait until the Maine Coon kitten is 10-12 weeks old before I can pick the kitten up?
A: I get the kittens desexed at 10-11 weeks of age and they need time to heal. They also need to be mature enough to leave the comfort of their mother for a happy and healthy life.
Q: When are their vaccinations due?
A: They have their first vaccination at 8wks of age and a second at 12wks then yearly after that.
Q: Are the kittens litter trained before they go home?
A: Yes, all my kittens are fully litter trained before they leave.
Q: What sort of food do they eat?
A: We feed them Hills Science Diet Kitten mix dry food and VIP Gourmet mince. They also enjoy steak, chicken and steamed fish. Chicken necks or wings are good for maintaining healthy teeth. I will give more info when you get your kitten. DO NOT give them cow's milk.
Q: Why can't I give milk to my Maine Coon kitten?
A: Cats are lactose intolerant; any milk product will upset their stomach and make them sick.
Q: Will you sell Maine Coon kittens interstate or overseas?
A: Yes I do but I don't allow my kittens on a plane until they are at least 13-14 weeks old.
Q: Can a Maine Coon kitten be trained similar to that of a dog?
A: YES. Many of our new owners have written back to us how their Maine Coon cat will walk on a leash, play fetch with a ball and beg for a treat. Since the Maine Coon cat likes to please its owners, almost anything may be possible especially if started at a young age.
Q: Do they like riding in the car?
A: Yes, if you start them at an early age they will love it.
Q: Do Maine Coon cat get along well with other animals?
A: Actually, yes, very well. If they are introduced slowly, they will hiss at first, but usually after a week or so they become good buddies. Maine Coon cat are extremely inquisitive, and have very little hesitation in meeting new animals. Just as long as the existing animal is friendly and gentle, then there should be no problems.
Q: Will they scratch the furniture?
A: All cats need to scratch their claws on something, so make sure you get them a scratching post or they will find something else to use instead, like furniture.
Q: Should you bath a Maine Coon cat?
A: The Maine Coon cat has a curiosity with water, many Maine Coon cats actually enjoy being bathed, so long as they have started this process early on in life.
Q: Are you still involved with the kitten once he/she goes to their homes?
A: Yes if you want me to be. Any questions or problems please let me know and I'll do my best to help. Even if its a few years down the track. I always love getting photos and updates on them as well, so feel free to email some through from time to time. (Please!)
Q: Do Maine Coon cat lose a lot of fur and how much grooming do they need?
A: Grooming a Maine Coon cat doesn't have to be done often, as they're very fastidious in the self-cleaning department and a weekly combing is all that is usually required to keep the coat in top condition.
Q: The house is empty most days, will the Maine Coon kitten be lonely?
A: If it's just usual work or school hours, they should be fine. Although they would prefer company, whether it be humans or animals. If you work away or long hours, you would be better off with 2 pets or maybe look at a different breed. They really do love company and it would be cruel to leave them on their own.
Q: I'm interested in breeding, are you able to help?
A: Only if you are serious about breeding and have the best interest of the Maine Coon cat breed in mind, I am only too happy to help. You must be a registered breeder and abide by the QFA Code of Ethics. I won't sell to anyone who is trying to make money from the cats by selling kittens to pet shops or not desexing there kittens before letting them go.
Q: What happens if I want to change the food that my kitten is eating?
A: We recommend feeding your Maine Coon cat Hills Science Diet kitten dry food until he or she has reached at least one year of age. If in this time you choose to change the kitten's food dramatically, it could cause some stomach upset or diarrhoea. What we recommend is a gradual transition, adding a bit more each day, slowly mixing in a little of the new food with their existing food until completely switched over. This usually takes approximately two weeks. There are many good foods on the market, but of course we want to see our kittens only eating "premium" quality kitten foods.
Q: Is it true that people affected by allergies will not be affected by the Maine Coon cat breed of cats?
A: FALSE. Allergies from cats do not come from the hair, rather it is found in cat Dander (Dried skin, a bit like dandruff). Therefore if you have an allergy to cats, this will hold as true for the Maine Coon cat breed as it does for the hairless Sphynx.