Maine Coon Cats: Size, Cost, Personality, and the Stories Behind the Breed

In this guide

Adapted from a Pet Sitters Ireland feature on the Maine Coon breed.

While putting together an earlier piece on Persian cats, it became clear that Maine Coons rank as the second most-searched cat breed in Ireland — which isn't surprising once you've seen one in person. Here's a rundown of what makes the breed distinctive.

The basics

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed, with males reaching up to 18 lbs — roughly the weight of a bowling ball or a car tyre. They average around 40 inches in length and come in an impressive 75 colour combinations. The breed is also known as the American Longhair.

Lifespan and health

On average, Maine Coons live around 10 years, with some reaching 12 or slightly beyond. They're generally considered a healthy breed, and neutering or spaying is thought to extend lifespan further. That said, a few hereditary conditions are worth knowing about: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (the most common form of feline heart disease), hip dysplasia, and spinal muscular atrophy.

Feeding

There's no breed-specific diet required for Maine Coons. Among the options that come up most often as recommended choices are Orijen Cat & Kitten dry food, Wellness Complete Health natural dry food, and Purina ONE Indoor Advantage dry food.

Growth rate

Most cat breeds reach full size by around two years old, but Maine Coons take up to four years to finish growing — and males generally end up larger than females.

Intelligence

Maine Coons are known for being sharp and quick to learn, which makes them relatively easy to train.

Shedding and grooming

Like Persians, Maine Coons are on the high-maintenance end of the grooming spectrum thanks to their thick, long coats, and they shed consistently. A few habits help keep it manageable: brushing several times a week to collect loose hair before it ends up around the house, professional grooming (including the option of a shorter trim), and regular bathing, which also helps prevent matting.

Distinguishing features

Beyond their size and long, thick coat, Maine Coons are known for lynx-like tufted ears and tufted paws — features that give them an unmistakable silhouette.

Personality and family life

Maine Coons carry the nicknames 'dogs of the cat world' and 'gentle giants' for good reason — they're highly intelligent, friendly, playful, and curious, and they tend to get along well with both children and other animals. They're also often described as hypoallergenic, making them a reasonable option for people who'd otherwise expect to react to cats.

Cost

In Ireland, Maine Coon kittens typically run €480–€750. Since a kitten's health can be tied closely to its parents' history, it's worth researching any breeder carefully — and, as always, checking local rescues and pounds first, since there are plenty of cats there looking for homes too.

Fun facts

• They don't really meow — Maine Coons 'chirp and trill,' a sound that sits somewhere between a meow and a purr.
• They love water and have water-resistant fur that makes them capable swimmers.
• One origin myth claims the breed arrived in the US aboard Viking ships.
• An old theory that they were related to raccoons has been thoroughly debunked.
• A Maine Coon named Cosey won the very first American cat show in 1895.
• The breed is built to handle harsh winter cold.
• They're notably popular in Japan.
• Mrs. Norris from the Harry Potter films was reportedly played by a Maine Coon.
• The world's oldest recorded cat, at 26 years old, was a Maine Coon.
• Some Maine Coons are polydactyl, with six toes on a paw instead of the usual five.

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