Maine Coon
Maine Coon: gentle, easy going yet active. Large, rugged cat; many colors and patterns.
Updated October 15, 2026 · 9 sources · see sources
| Weight | Males 18–25 lb, females 10–14 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | Around 13+ years [1] |
| Coat | Longhair [2] |
| Look | Large, rugged cat; many colors and patterns [2] |
| Personality | Gentle, easy going yet active [2] |
| CFA popularity (2025) | No. 1 pedigreed breed [3] |
Activity and exercise
Sociable and intelligent; CFA notes many are fond of water and will watch a dripping faucet or wash toys. [2]
Grooming
CFA says breeders recommend combing two or three times a week to control shedding, prevent hairballs and protect against matting; most don't need regular baths. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Spinal muscular atrophy, Polycystic kidney disease, Hip dysplasia, Chronic gingivitis. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [4] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [5] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [6] |
| Cat dental cleaning (owner bills) | $350–$1,450 | [7] |
| Cat heart disease treatment (owner bills) | $525–$1,250 | [8] |
| Cat kidney disease (CKD) care | $600–$3,500 total | [9] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The raccoon-cross story behind the name is genetically impossible; CFA traces the breed's roots to short-haired ship cats that landed in New England with early settlers. [2]
- At the first US cat show in 1895, a brown tabby Maine Coon named Cosey was chosen Best Cat. His silver collar and medal are displayed at the Feline Historical Museum at CFA headquarters in Alliance, Ohio. [2]
- CFA ranked the Maine Coon the No. 1 pedigreed cat breed for 2025 (based on 2024 registrations). [3]
- PetMD notes adult males can weigh up to 25 pounds. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families: CFA says they enjoy every family member and go from lap to lap rather than picking one favorite
- ✅ Owners who can comb a long coat a few times a week
Common questions
How long do Maine Coon cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of around 13 years.
How big does a Maine Coon get?
PetMD lists a weight of males 18–25 lb, females 10–14 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources
- PetMD – Maine Coon cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Maine Coon breed profile
- CFA – Most Popular Breeds for 2025
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Dental Cleaning Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- VetReceipt – Cat Heart Disease Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- VetReceipt – Cat Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)