Maine Coon Care:
Guidelines for Owners
Guidelines for Owners
Everything You Need to Know About Your Maine Coon’s Health, Nutrition, Grooming, and Well-Being
The key recommendations are provided in Appendices to Contract No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4.
These documents contain detailed explanations and practical advice to help you better understand the terms of the contract and follow the established rules.
You may:
These documents contain detailed explanations and practical advice to help you better understand the terms of the contract and follow the established rules.
You may:
Guide for Future Owners of a Maine Coon Kitten
1. Preparing for Your Kitten’s Arrival
Resting Area
Choose a quiet, calm corner in your home where you can place a bed or soft cat house. Make sure the area is protected from drafts and direct sunlight.
Litter Box and Toilet Area
Purchase high-quality litter without strong odors. Place the litter box in a quiet but accessible location, away from food and water bowls.
Food and water bowls
Ceramic or metal bowls are preferred (easy to clean and do not retain odors). Place the bowls a little apart from each other so that food does not mix with water.
Scratching post
The Maine Coon is a large breed, so it needs a stable and sufficiently tall scratching post.
Train the kitten by gently guiding its paws to the scratching surface.
Train the kitten by gently guiding its paws to the scratching surface.
Safety
Keep fragile items, wires, small objects, and hazardous substances (household chemicals, medications) out of reach. Close windows or equip them with protective screens to prevent the kitten from falling.
2. Nutrition
Food
The Cardinal Star cattery recommends continuing the food the kitten is accustomed to from the breeder. If you plan to change the diet, do so gradually by mixing the new food with the old over 7–10 days.
Feeding schedule
In the first months, the kitten should be fed 4–5 times a day. Over time, the number of feedings can be reduced to 2–3 times a day.
Water
The kitten should always have access to fresh, clean water. Change the water at least once or twice a day.
3. Health and Vaccination
Initial Check-Up
It is recommended to take the kitten to a veterinarian for a general check-up within the first 2–3 days after arrival.
Vaccination Schedule
Check with the breeder which vaccinations have already been given, and follow the vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Make sure to give booster shots on time.
Parasite Prevention
Regularly treat your kitten for fleas and worms according to the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Grooming and Hygiene
Brushing
Maine Coons have long, thick fur, so brush it 2–3 times a week. Introduce the grooming gradually and gently to avoid creating negative associations for the kitten.
Bathing
Bathe your kitten only when necessary (e.g., heavy dirt or veterinarian’s recommendation). Use shampoos specifically formulated for kittens.
Nail Care
Trim the claws as needed, cutting only the very tip (avoiding the “quick”). If you’re unsure how to do it correctly, ask a veterinarian or professional groomer to demonstrate.
Ear and Eye Cleaning
Check the ears and eyes for dirt or discharge. If needed, gently wipe them with a cotton pad moistened with a special cleaning solution. If you notice redness, excessive discharge, or an unpleasant odor, consult a veterinarian.
5. Adaptation and Behavior
The First Days
Do not scare the kitten with loud noises; give it time to calmly explore the house. If the kitten hides, do not pull it out by force—let it come out on its own when it feels safe.
Playtime and Leisure
Maine Coons are active and intelligent cats, so they need toys (balls, wand toys, interactive sets). Play with the kitten daily, but make sure to give it plenty of time for rest and sleep.
Interaction with Children
Explain to children how to handle the kitten gently: they should not drop it, pull its tail, or tug its whiskers. Show them the correct way to pet and hold the kitten.
6. Adapting to Other Pets
(If you already have other cats)
(If you already have other cats)
Separate spaces for the first few days
Separate spaces for the first days. Ideally, provide the new kitten with a separate room so it can settle in calmly, feel safe, and get used to the new scents. During this time, your existing cat(s) can also get accustomed to the “newcomer’s” scent through doors, your hands, toys, or bedding.
Gradual introduction
After a few days, once the kitten feels more confident, allow the cats to see each other under supervision. If you hear hissing or growling, do not punish them — this is their way of communicating. Simply separate them into different rooms and try again later.
Shared territory
Do not rush to force the animals to become friends. Let the introduction happen naturally. Each animal should have its own space for resting and eating to avoid conflicts.
7. Adapting to Other Pets
(If you have a dog)
(If you have a dog)
First meeting under supervision
During the first few days, the kitten and the dog should stay in separate rooms or have clearly divided areas. When it’s time for a “face-to-face” introduction, keep the dog on a leash (especially if it’s large or very active). Let the pets sniff each other first through a gate, carrier, or baby gate.
Calm atmosphere
If the dog becomes overly excited, redirect its attention to a toy or a command to help lower its arousal. Try to remain confident and calm yourself, as your emotions are communicated to the animals.
Gradual introduction
Increase the time spent together only when both sides remain calm. Reward friendly reactions (such as sniffing without aggression or staying calm nearby) with treats or affection. If one of the pets becomes nervous or shows aggression, stop the interaction and return to a safer stage of introduction.
8. Contacts and consultations
Cattery Cardinal Star
We are always available and ready to help with advice. If you have any questions about your kitten’s nutrition, health, or behavior, feel free to contact us directly.
Veterinary clinic
In advance, find and write down the contacts of the clinics nearest to you, including their opening hours and emergency numbers.
9. Useful tips
Maintain your kitten’s usual daily routine.
For the first period, try to avoid noisy events and not invite many guests, so as not to overwhelm the kitten with stress.
Monitor behavior and health.
Pay attention to appetite, stool, and activity level. At the first signs of poor health (lethargy, refusal to eat, diarrhea, vomiting), contact a veterinarian.
Create a supply of toys and scratching posts.
The Maine Coon is a curious and active breed that requires both mental and physical stimulation.
Routine veterinary visits
Have preventive check-ups at least once every six months or as recommended by your veterinarian.
Monitor behavior and health.
Share your successes and questions: at EkellinFI cattery, we are always ready to offer advice and delighted to see your Maine Coon grow!
Key recommendations
Care, feeding, and housing recommendations
The Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds, known for its friendly and balanced temperament. They are ideal for family life due to their attachment to people, tolerance of children, and ability to get along with other pets.
These cats are highly socially adaptable but require attention and care. Maine Coons enjoy observing their surroundings from a height, so it is important to provide them with access to scratching posts, stands, or shelves. They are also active, intelligent, and playful, making them wonderful companions. Without proper attention and interaction, they can experience stress.
These cats are highly socially adaptable but require attention and care. Maine Coons enjoy observing their surroundings from a height, so it is important to provide them with access to scratching posts, stands, or shelves. They are also active, intelligent, and playful, making them wonderful companions. Without proper attention and interaction, they can experience stress.
Care for kittens and adult cats
Key recommendations
- The Maine Coon’s coat requires regular maintenance to prevent mats and reduce shedding. Brushing: Use a metal comb with long teeth (for the undercoat) and a brush (for the topcoat). Frequency: 2–3 times per week. Bathing: Use shampoos designed for long-haired breeds. Bathing is recommended every 1–2 months or as needed if the coat becomes heavily soiled.
- Check the eyes daily and, if necessary, remove any discharge with a cotton pad moistened with warm water or a special solution.
- Inspect the ears once a week. Use cleaning solutions to remove dirt and debris.
- Maine Coons are prone to oral diseases, so it is important to: Brush their teeth 2–3 times per week using toothpaste made specifically for cats. Provide chew toys or treats to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Visit a veterinary dentist annually.
Regular trimming of claws helps prevent furniture damage and injuries. Trimming: Cut the claws every 2–4 weeks using cat-specific nail clippers. Be careful not to cut the quick (the pink area inside the claw), as this can cause bleeding and pain. Prohibited actions: Declawing is strictly forbidden, as it causes severe suffering and interferes with the cat’s natural instincts.
Grooming products and accessories mentioned above can be purchased from the breeder’s online store at the following link: https://mcoon.ee/shop
Key recommendations
Feeding a Maine Coon kitten
Feeding a Maine Coon from an early age plays a key role in developing a healthy skeleton and proper body proportions, as well as supporting a strong immune system and preventing diseases. Below are the main recommendations for organizing a Maine Coon kitten’s diet, including mixed feeding methods, food composition, feeding frequency, and storage guidelines.
- Large size and prolonged growth: Maine Coons grow longer than most breeds (up to 3–4 years), so their diet must be balanced in proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals throughout the growth period.
- Prone to musculoskeletal issues: To support strong bones and joints, they require increased amounts of calcium, phosphorus, chondroprotective substances (glucosamine and chondroitin), and sufficient high-quality protein.
- Special taurine requirements: Like all cats, Maine Coons need taurine to maintain heart health, vision, and reproductive system function.
In our cattery, kittens are raised on a mixed feeding regimen:
- Constant access to premium dry food: Royal Canin Maine Coon Kitten.
- Meat mixture, thermally treated (deep-frozen) and given twice a day.
- Pork (heart): valuable source of taurine.
- Chicken necks: source of minerals (calcium) and additional protein; also contains cartilage elements beneficial for joints.
- Chicken hearts: high in easily digestible protein and taurine.
- Chicken gizzards: source of protein and beneficial enzymes.
- Beef (red meat): provides animal protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- Chicken (red meat): source of high-quality protein and healthy fats.
- Turkey (red meat): easily digestible protein with low fat content.
- Quail meat: dietary protein rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Raw quail eggs (twice a day): additional source of protein, vitamins, and trace elements.
- Important: Meat undergoes deep freezing for at least 72 hours before feeding to reduce the risk of parasite contamination. After thawing, products should not be stored for more than 24 hours, even in the refrigerator.
- Deep freezing (–18 °C and below):
- Destroys most parasites and bacteria.
- Preserves the majority of nutrients.
- Thawing in the refrigerator:
- Slow thawing over 12–24 hours at +4…+6 °C.
- Avoid refreezing meat after it has been thawed.
- Heat treatment if necessary:
- If the quality of the raw meat is uncertain, it can be lightly boiled or stewed.
- Note that some vitamins and beneficial nutrients may be lost during cooking.
- Up to 4 months:
- Feed 4–5 small meals per day.
- Continuous access to dry food.
- 4–6 months:
- Transition to 3–4 meals per day.
- Establish a more structured schedule while maintaining free access to dry food.
- 6–12 months:
- 2–3 meals per day plus continuous access to dry food.
- Over 12 months (adolescent and adult):
- 2 meals per day; sometimes 1–2 full portions of wet/natural food are sufficient if the cat does not overeat dry food.
- Sealed packaging or airtight container: Protects the food from moisture, mold, and loss of flavor.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Optimal temperature up to +25 °C, away from direct sunlight.
- Check expiration dates: Always verify the date on the package; do not mix old and new food in the same container.
- Periodic inspection: Check for unpleasant odors, insects, or signs of spoilage.
- Royal Canin Maine Coon Kitten (premium):
- Specialized food for Maine Coon kittens.
- High protein content and joint-support complex.
- Hill’s Science Plan Kitten (premium):
- Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Supports coat health and immune system.
- Purina Pro Plan Kitten (premium):
- Contains the Optistart complex with added colostrum, beneficial for digestion and immunity.
- Eukanuba Kitten (premium):
- High animal protein content with supplements supporting growth and development.
- Acana Kitten & Junior (super-premium):
- Based on a high proportion of fresh meat, low in carbohydrates.
- Orijen Cat & Kitten (super-premium):
- Biologically appropriate food with a high content of meat ingredients.
- Tip: When choosing food, pay attention to formulas labeled “Kitten” and consider the kitten’s weight, coat condition, activity level, and breed-specific characteristics.
Advantages of wet food: Provides additional moisture, which is beneficial for the urinary tract and overall hydration.
Disadvantages: Overfeeding may lead to more frequent or looser stools. Wet food also spoils quickly once opened and cannot be stored for long outside the refrigerator.
Recommendation: Introduce wet food gradually without completely replacing the main dry or natural diet. Monitor stool quantity and quality; if stools become loose, reduce the proportion of wet food.
Disadvantages: Overfeeding may lead to more frequent or looser stools. Wet food also spoils quickly once opened and cannot be stored for long outside the refrigerator.
Recommendation: Introduce wet food gradually without completely replacing the main dry or natural diet. Monitor stool quantity and quality; if stools become loose, reduce the proportion of wet food.
Gradual transition: Introduce any new food (dry or wet) over at least 5–7 days by mixing the old and new food in varying proportions (starting with 10% new and 90% old, gradually increasing to full replacement).
Monitoring: Observe the kitten’s stool, appetite, and activity. If digestive issues occur (diarrhea, vomiting, gas), reduce the proportion of new food or temporarily return to the previous diet.Composition: Ensure the new food meets the kitten’s nutritional needs (protein, vitamins, minerals, energy content) according to its age, breed, and physical condition.
Monitoring: Observe the kitten’s stool, appetite, and activity. If digestive issues occur (diarrhea, vomiting, gas), reduce the proportion of new food or temporarily return to the previous diet.Composition: Ensure the new food meets the kitten’s nutritional needs (protein, vitamins, minerals, energy content) according to its age, breed, and physical condition.
Age: The younger the kitten, the more frequent and calorie-rich the meals should be. As the cat grows, the number of meals decreases, and the total daily food amount is adjusted according to its needs.
Animal category:
Pet class (household pets): Especially spayed/neutered kittens, require controlled calorie intake due to reduced energy needs.
Show and breeding class: Often require a diet higher in protein, vitamins, and special supplements to maintain show condition, coat quality, and overall health.
Physiological characteristics: Take into account potential food allergies or individual intolerances to specific ingredients (e.g., chicken or grains).
Animal category:
Pet class (household pets): Especially spayed/neutered kittens, require controlled calorie intake due to reduced energy needs.
Show and breeding class: Often require a diet higher in protein, vitamins, and special supplements to maintain show condition, coat quality, and overall health.
Physiological characteristics: Take into account potential food allergies or individual intolerances to specific ingredients (e.g., chicken or grains).
Balance: Maine Coons need a high-quality diet rich in protein and fat, supplemented with vitamins and minerals.
Mixed feeding: A good approach is combining dry food (premium/super-premium) with natural meat that has undergone proper thermal treatment (deep freezing).
Regularity: Follow a consistent feeding schedule and gradually adjust meal frequency according to age.
Monitoring weight and condition: Regularly weigh your kitten and monitor activity, coat condition, and stool. Consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Gradual transition: When changing food, introduce the new formula slowly while observing the digestive response.
Following these recommendations ensures optimal growth and development for your Maine Coon, supports its health, and lays the foundation for an active, healthy life.
Mixed feeding: A good approach is combining dry food (premium/super-premium) with natural meat that has undergone proper thermal treatment (deep freezing).
Regularity: Follow a consistent feeding schedule and gradually adjust meal frequency according to age.
Monitoring weight and condition: Regularly weigh your kitten and monitor activity, coat condition, and stool. Consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Gradual transition: When changing food, introduce the new formula slowly while observing the digestive response.
Following these recommendations ensures optimal growth and development for your Maine Coon, supports its health, and lays the foundation for an active, healthy life.
- Chocolate, coffee, and caffeinated products: Contain theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats and can cause serious heart and nervous system problems.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can lead to poisoning and damage internal organs.
- Onions, garlic, and onion skins: Contain compounds that destroy red blood cells in cats, causing anemia.
- Spices, seasonings, and excessive salt: Irritate the digestive tract lining, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
- Fish and poultry bones (hollow): Can splinter into sharp pieces, injuring the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
- Sweets and sugar: Cats cannot process excess sugar, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems.
- Fatty, smoked, spicy meats, and sausages: Contain excessive salt and spices; smoked products may include carcinogens harmful to cats.
- Mushrooms (including store-bought): Can cause serious digestive and nervous system issues due to toxic or hard-to-digest components.
- Milk and dairy products: Many adult cats develop lactose intolerance after kittenhood. If giving dairy, monitor the digestive system for diarrhea or bloating. Use lactose-free products or special cat milk if needed.
- Fish: Cats, including Maine Coons, may enjoy fish, but not all types are beneficial. Raw freshwater fish may contain parasites, and saltwater fish can have excessive salt. Only offer thoroughly processed fish (boneless and properly cooked or frozen) 1–2 times per week to avoid vitamin B1 deficiency.
- Eggs: Raw chicken eggs should be given cautiously (avidin in the white interferes with biotin absorption). Usually, only cooked yolks or quail eggs are recommended. In our cattery, raw quail eggs are used—ensure high quality and moderate amounts.
- Pork: Raw pork may carry parasitic risks, so only use verified pork that has been deep-frozen or cooked. Even then, avoid frequent feeding, as it is quite fatty.
- Exotic fruits and vegetables: Some fruits (e.g., avocado, grapes, raisins) are toxic to cats or may cause digestive upset. Other fruits and vegetables should be given occasionally in small amounts, ensuring the cat tolerates them.
- Nuts: Nuts, especially walnuts and macadamia, are potentially dangerous for cats. They may cause digestive issues, allergic reactions, and contain fats unsuitable for feline metabolism.
- Always check the freshness and quality of food. Do not risk the kitten’s health if there is any doubt about the safety of ingredients.
- Monitor your kitten’s individual reaction to foods, even approved ones. If itching, digestive upset, or vomiting occurs, eliminate the potential allergen.
- Do not feed table scraps prepared with salt, spices, sauces, etc.—cats have different nutritional needs and sensitivity to seasonings.
- Consult a veterinarian if the kitten has special dietary restrictions, chronic illnesses, or breed-specific health considerations.
- By following these recommendations and avoiding potentially dangerous foods, you will ensure your Maine Coon has a proper diet, maintaining its health and activity for many years.
Key recommendations
Transport, exercise, and living conditions for a kitten in an apartment building
This section covers the main aspects of transporting, exercising, and housing a kitten in an apartment building in Estonia. We address safety rules for transporting animals, guidelines for taking a kitten outdoors, and requirements for its living conditions in a city apartment, taking into account Estonian laws aimed at protecting animal welfare and maintaining public order.
- 1.1. Safe transport: When transporting a Maine Coon kitten, it is important to use a specially designed carrier that is appropriately sized and durable. The carrier should have a secure lock and ventilation openings.
- 1.2. Comfort and calmness: Before the trip, prepare the kitten for transportation by ensuring a calm environment, a soft surface, and access to fresh air. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.
- 1.3. Pre-trip checks: For long journeys or flights, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian, obtain the necessary documents, and ensure that all requirements of the transport company (airline, road transport company, etc.) are met.
- 2.1. General principles for walks in Estonia: According to the Estonian Animal Welfare Act, pet owners are responsible for ensuring the safety of their cat, protecting the environment, and safeguarding other animals. Temporary or permanent restrictions on animal walking may apply, especially during bird nesting periods or in protected areas.
- 2.2. Owner responsibility: If the kitten is allowed to walk outdoors, the owner must ensure that it does not damage property, disturb neighbors, or violate local nature protection rules (e.g., access to restricted protected zones).
- 2.3. Alternatives to free roaming: Due to the characteristics of Maine Coon kittens (large size, activity, and curiosity), it is recommended to conduct walks safely using a harness or in special outdoor or balcony enclosures. This helps prevent escapes and injuries while ensuring compliance with Estonian laws on pet walking.
- 2.4. Special precautions in rural areas: If the kitten is taken to the countryside (summer house or rural home), potential dangers such as wild animals, ticks, poisonous plants, and household chemicals must be considered. It is recommended to treat the kitten against fleas, ticks, and other parasites according to a veterinarian-recommended schedule before each season. It is important to remember that in rural areas, the cat may face additional risks (e.g., nearby roads, unfamiliar territory, lack of familiar shelters).
- 3.1. Adjustment to a new environment: When moving into an apartment, it is important to provide the kitten with an adaptation period: isolate a spacious and quiet room where it can get used to new sounds and smells. Maine Coon cats are fairly stress tolerant but require space and hiding places at different levels (scratching posts, shelves, special cat houses).
- 3.2. Window and balcony safety: In an apartment building, particular attention must be paid to the safety of windows and balconies. It is recommended to install protective nets or grilles to prevent falls.
- 3.3. Noise and interaction with neighbors: Maine Coons are generally calm, but they can be noisy during active play. Avoid potential conflicts with neighbors by keeping quiet late at night and ensuring common areas like stairwells are kept clean if the cat ever goes outside the apartment.
- 4.1. Veterinary monitoring: Attend regular veterinary check-ups, ensure necessary vaccinations, and follow deworming treatments. Timely diagnosis of illnesses helps prevent serious consequences.
- 4.2. Physical activity: To maintain adequate exercise, provide play structures, high shelves, and interactive toys.
- 4.3. Identification: In Finland, microchipping pets is strongly recommended. All kittens from the breeder are microchipped. A microchip makes it easier to locate the owner if the cat goes missing. You may also use a collar with an identification tag.
5.1. Risk of accidents: Free outdoor access or taking the kitten to a summer house increases the risk of the cat going missing, injuries, attacks by wild animals, or parasite infestation. The seller is not responsible for such incidents after the cat has been handed over but strongly recommends following all precautionary measures.
5.2. Compliance with local regulations: The owner must familiarize themselves with and comply with Finnish legislation and local rules regarding pet ownership (including apartment building and property regulations).
5.3. Consultation with a veterinarian and cat caregiver: If there are questions regarding the cat’s health, behavior, or care, it is recommended to contact experts immediately (veterinarian, breeder, cat caregiver).
5.2. Compliance with local regulations: The owner must familiarize themselves with and comply with Finnish legislation and local rules regarding pet ownership (including apartment building and property regulations).
5.3. Consultation with a veterinarian and cat caregiver: If there are questions regarding the cat’s health, behavior, or care, it is recommended to contact experts immediately (veterinarian, breeder, cat caregiver).
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