Basic Care for a Maine Coon Cat

Diet and Nutrition
Maine Coons are large, muscular cats with slow and steady growth that can continue until they are 3 to 5 years old. They require a high-quality, protein-rich diet that supports their size, energy, and joint health. Look for food with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn or soy. Portion control is important because they can become overweight if overfed. Fresh water should always be available, and treats should be given in moderation.

Playtime and Mental Stimulation
These cats are playful and intelligent, so regular play is essential for their mental and physical health. Maine Coons enjoy interactive toys like feather wands, puzzle feeders, and even games of fetch. Play sessions twice a day can help keep them active and prevent boredom-related behavior. They also enjoy climbing and exploring, so cat trees, wall shelves, and scratching posts are great additions to their environment.

Environment and Space
Though Maine Coons adapt well to indoor life, they benefit from having enough room to move around freely. They’re curious and like to perch high to observe their surroundings, so vertical space is just as important as floor space. A safe, enclosed outdoor area or catio is ideal for giving them a taste of the outdoors without exposing them to dangers. They thrive in calm, engaging environments with places to hide, climb, and relax.

Grooming Needs
Their long, dense coats are resistant to water and weather but require regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats, especially around the neck, belly, and tail. Brushing 2–3 times per week is usually sufficient. Check behind the ears and under the arms, where mats can easily form. Occasional nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care should also be part of their grooming routine.

Veterinary Care
Routine veterinary checkups are important to monitor your Maine Coon’s health, especially as they are prone to genetic conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia. Keep up with core vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and deworming. Annual wellness exams help detect issues early and keep them healthy long-term. Spaying or neutering is recommended unless the cat is part of a registered breeding program.

Litter Box Maintenance
Maine Coons are clean and appreciate a tidy litter box. Choose a large litter box with high sides to accommodate their size and provide privacy. Scoop the litter daily and clean the box thoroughly once a week. Unscented, clumping litter is often preferred, and multiple boxes are ideal in multi-cat homes.

Other Considerations
Because they are sociable and people-oriented, Maine Coons don’t do well with long periods of isolation. If you’re away for many hours, consider providing companionship through another cat or enriching their environment with automated toys and window views. Microchipping and ID tags are also recommended for safety.

Providing the right care helps ensure your Maine Coon thrives—happy, healthy, and well-adjusted in your home.