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Maine Coon: temperament, health and care
Maine Coon: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Large, about 4–8 kg (males can be larger) |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | Moderate: enjoys play and climbing |
| Grooming | Long coat: brush several times a week |
Temperament and who it suits
Gentle, sociable and dog-like; matures slowly over 3–5 years.
Often suits: families wanting a gentle, sociable large cat.
Ask the breeder for heart screening and DNA test results.
Health problems to know about
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Hip dysplasia
- Spinal muscular atrophy (test available)
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Maine Coon
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Maine Coon live?
A Maine Coon typically lives 12–15 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Maine Coon need?
Moderate: enjoys play and climbing.
What health problems are common in a Maine Coon?
Common concerns include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), hip dysplasia and spinal muscular atrophy (test available). Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Maine Coon need?
Long coat: brush several times a week.
Who does a Maine Coon suit?
It often suits families wanting a gentle, sociable large cat. Ask the breeder for heart screening and DNA test results.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.