If you’re just discovering the magnificent Maine Coon breed, you might be wondering, “Are Coon Cats good pets?” It’s a question many potential cat owners ask themselves when they first encounter these impressive felines.
Can Maine Coon Cats Handle Alone Time?
Maine Coon cats are known for their love of human companionship and their sociable nature. Introducing them to periods of owner absence from kittenhood can help them adapt better as adults. It’s all about preparing them for the reality of life with human schedules.
If your Maine Coon is accustomed to a pet sitter or a trusted friend checking in on them, being alone while you’re at work or away for short trips becomes less stressful. However, a sudden shift from constant companionship (like in households with retirees or work-from-home individuals) to prolonged solitude, such as a week-long vacation, can be unsettling for a two-year-old Maine Coon. Gradual introduction to alone time is key.
Are Maine Coons High Maintenance?
As a devoted Maine Coon owner, I can attest that the most demanding aspect of their care is undoubtedly their glorious coat. Regular grooming is essential. They require brushing and combing 2 to 3 times a week to prevent matting, which can be uncomfortable and unhealthy for your cat.
Beyond their grooming needs, Maine Coons are generally no more demanding than any other feline companion. Providing them with a stimulating environment, quality food, and regular veterinary care are the standard responsibilities of any cat owner.
Do Maine Coons Get Along with Dogs?
The Maine Coon is often nicknamed the “dog of the cat world,” and for good reason. They exhibit many dog-like traits, such as enjoying games of fetch, and some even have an affinity for water, happily splashing in sinks or even joining you in the shower!
Generally, Maine Coons coexist wonderfully with dogs, provided the canine companion is friendly and well-socialized. A thoughtful and gradual introduction is always recommended to ensure a harmonious multi-pet household and foster a positive relationship between your Coon Cat and dog.
Life Before Maine Coon Companionship
Before my life was enriched by Maine Coons – a truly memorable discovery – I was owned by a Flame Point Himalayan named Jack. He was a Christmas gift from my husband in 1998.
Jack had a perpetually grumpy expression, reminiscent of the famous Grumpy Cat. Despite his appearance, he was a laid-back and gentle cat, though not particularly social. He preferred quiet solitude under the bed to interacting with guests. Sadly, Jack passed away in 2008 at the age of 14 from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
A year later, yearning for feline companionship again, my son and I began researching different cat breeds. Derek stumbled upon a “Top 10 Most Affectionate Cat Breeds” list, and the Maine Coon stood out.
He was immediately captivated by their impressive size, a feature that often initially draws people to this breed. Now, my home is filled with the joy of several Maine Coon Cats, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to welcome these gentle giants into my life.
Photo Credit to Sue Salisbury / Flickr
Which brings us to the heart of the matter…
Coon Cats and Their Humans: A Love Story
Since my first Maine Coon, I’ve been completely captivated by these extraordinary cats. They are far from ordinary felines. Their unique personalities are incredibly social, often described as dog-like, and wonderfully expressive!
There’s an undeniable magic to sharing your life with a Maine Coon. They redefine what it means to be a cat owner. Their special qualities are abundant, making them beloved companions for many.
It’s challenging to fully convey the experience of living with a Maine Coon (or several!). Let’s explore some compelling reasons why Maine Coons make exceptional pets.
A white Maine Coon cat lying with its owner, receiving a kiss on the nose.
Top 16 Reasons Why Coon Cats Are Fantastic Pets
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Highly Social Butterflies: Maine Coons are social creatures who want to be in the center of your world. Wherever you go, they’ll be there, casually observing and ensuring you’re not causing mischief. Moving from the living room to the kitchen? Expect your Coon Cat to follow, eager to be part of the action and perhaps hoping for a snack.
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Natural Winter Warmers: These furry giants, especially males who can reach 20+ pounds, are like living, breathing, furry hot water bottles in winter. Tuck one under the covers, and your bed will be toasty warm in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for cuddling on chilly evenings.
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Built-in Weighted Blankets: Coon Cats often enjoy sleeping in bed with their humans, frequently at the foot of the bed. Their substantial weight makes them excellent living weighted blanket additions, keeping your blankets securely in place.
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Intimidatingly Impressive: Guests unfamiliar with the breed might mistake your Maine Coon for a wild cat like a bobcat or lynx, due to their size and striking appearance. It can be quite amusing to let them wonder! 😜
Just the First Four! Twelve More Reasons to Come…
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Reliable Alarm Clocks (of the Feline Variety): Maine Coons operate on an internal breakfast clock, often stirring around 4:00 am, driven by a powerful hunger. This biological programming turns them into remarkably effective (if somewhat insistent) alarm clocks. Expect gentle paw pats, trills, chirps, and meows to rouse you. Ignoring them might escalate to bed-jumping, hallway sprints, and wall collisions. Even closed doors are no match for a determined, hungry Coon Cat, who will quickly learn to knock.
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Never a Doubt About Hunger: There will be no mystery when your Coon Cat is hungry. They will station themselves near their food, whether it’s the pantry or cupboard, and give you “the look” until you comply. They are also surprisingly adept at opening cabinets, front doors, and even car doors when motivated!
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Affectionate Head Butts (Proceed with Caution): Coon Cats express affection with head butts. While endearing, be mindful of their grapefruit-sized heads – enthusiastic head bumps can sometimes be surprisingly forceful! However, there’s something undeniably comforting about a headbutt from such a substantial feline.
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Born to be Photogenic: Bad photos of Maine Coons are practically nonexistent. Whether they’ve just woken up or are mid-yawn, they always seem to look fantastic in pictures. And they are usually quite tolerant of being tagged in your social media posts! For visual proof, check out these pictures of Maine Coon Cats.
Halfway There! Ready for More Coon Cat Cuteness?
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Stampede Sounds Included: If you enjoy the sound of miniature elephants roaming your house, a Maine Coon is your breed! They are not light-footed and possess impressive heft. They are, in fact, the largest domesticated cat breed in the world.
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Refrigerator Royalty: Maine Coons have a penchant for heights, the higher the better. They will claim the tops of cabinets, refrigerators – any elevated perch they can reach. From their lofty vantage points, they survey their kingdom with majestic poise.
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Water Lovers (Mostly): Many, though not all, Maine Coons are drawn to water. Some enjoy showers, and even full baths. My own Coon Cats are fascinated by running water and have a dedicated water fountain. Sometimes they gather around it like it’s a feline bonfire. Note the “most, not all” caveat – one of mine despises water and once attempted to scalp me during a bath attempt!
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Kitten Perfection: Maine Coon Kittens are undeniably the most adorable baby animals on the planet. It’s simply an undeniable truth.
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A Newfound Cat Appreciation: Even if you weren’t a “cat person” before, or even if you have cat allergies (like me!), Maine Coons are worth the daily allergy medication. Their charm and companionship are that compelling.
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Years of Love: The average life expectancy of a Maine Coon is a generous 10 to 15 years. That’s a decade or more to cherish your magnificent furry friend.
Shall We Continue? Absolutely!
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Like Potato Chips, But Furry: Maine Coons are addictive – you can’t just have one! Due to their social nature, they thrive in pairs, especially if you’re away from home for extended periods. Two Coon Cats provide each other with company and feline conversation. Unlike potato chips, however, Coon Cats won’t expand your waistline.
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Unlimited Furry Fun: Your Coon Cat will generously shed enough fur to create a cat hair hat or even a fur sausage (if you’re so inclined!). The list of wonderful Maine Coon traits could go on and on.
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Goofy Entertainers Extraordinaire: Maine Coons are renowned for their goofy and entertaining personalities. Some are cool and collected, others are endearingly clumsy, and some are outright hilarious. Regardless of their individual quirks, your Maine Coon will provide endless laughter and entertainment – a lifetime of live feline comedy.
For further amusement, here’s a tutorial video on How to Make a Cat Hair Cat Hat – [Just in Case!].
I could easily continue listing reasons why Maine Coons make exceptional pets, but I believe you get the picture. Life with a Maine Coon is life with the most majestic, goofball cat imaginable.
Are Coon Cats Superior to Other Cats?
In short? Yes! It’s hard to articulate the difference without experiencing it firsthand. But a Maine Coon is simply an all-around exceptional cat, surpassing other breeds in countless ways. They are, quite simply, awesome.
If you’re considering Bringing a Kitten Home, a Maine Coon is a truly wonderful pet choice. The Characteristics of a Maine Coon outshine many other breeds in personality, beauty, social aptitude, and their ability to become cherished family members!
