Your friendly guide to raising a happy and healthy "Gentle Giant."

Congratulations! Becoming a Maine Coon owner is a joyful journey, but these majestic cats aren't your average felines. Because of their impressive size and unique traits, they require specialized care to truly thrive. Based on our 11 years of experience at TigerCoonCat, we’ve summarized the most important tips for beginners.

1. Space to Grow: Think Big

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed in the world.

• Cat Trees: Invest in heavy-duty, XL-sized cat trees with wide bases. Standard trees often tip over once a Maine Coon reaches full size (which can be over 10 kg).
• Litter Boxes: You will need an "Open Top" or "Jumbo" litter box. If the box is too small, your cat won't feel comfortable, which could lead to bathroom issues.

2. The Art of Grooming: Maintaining the Majestic Mane

Their long, silky fur is beautiful but prone to matting, especially under the armpits and around the "breeches" (back legs).

• Daily Brushing: Spend 5-10 minutes a day brushing your cat to prevent knots.
• Professional Bathing: Since they have a double coat, deep cleaning is essential. We recommend a professional groomer who specializes in long-haired cats or visiting our TigerCoonCat Kingdom salon for expert care.

3. Nutrition: Fueling a Giant

To support their heavy bone structure and long-term health, diet is key.

• High-Protein Diet: We highly recommend a combination of premium grain-free kibble and our signature BARF recipes (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) to ensure they get the nutrients needed for their 3-5 year growth phase.
• Water Everywhere: Maine Coons love water! Use heavy ceramic bowls or a water fountain to keep them hydrated and prevent them from "playing" with their water dish.

4. Health Awareness: Prevention is Better Than Cure

Maine Coons are generally hardy, but as a large breed, they have specific health risks.

• Heart Health: Always ask your breeder for Pro-BNP or Echocardiogram results. Heart health is our top priority at TigerCoonCat.
• Joint Care: Because they are heavy, monitor their mobility. Avoiding slippery floors and providing joint supplements can help as they age.

5. Socialization: The Dog-Like Personality

Maine Coons are famous for being social and "dog-like."

• Don't Leave Them Alone Too Long: They crave human companionship. If you work long hours, consider getting them a feline friend to keep them company.
• Interactive Play: They are highly intelligent. Use puzzle toys or play fetch to keep their minds sharp.

A Message from TigerCoonCat

Raising a Maine Coon is a long-term commitment of 12-15+ years. While they may seem high-maintenance, the love and loyalty they give back are immeasurable.If you have questions about grooming, nutrition, or behavior, we are always here for our TigerCoonCat family