The 60-second version of the Maine Coon: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home. When you're ready for the deep dive, our full guide has costs, health, food and more.
Maine Coon at a glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4–11 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | 30+ minutes indoor play daily |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times weekly |
| Shedding | Heavy |
| With kids | Excellent |
| Traits | Giant, playful, long-coated |
Living with a Maine Coon in Australia
The Maine Coon is the gentle giant — up to 8+ kg of fluffy, dog-like devotion that chirps instead of meows. They’re superb family cats, tolerant of kids and other pets. Everything scales with size: bigger litter trays, bigger food bills, and a carrier you can actually lift.
Health watch-outs
Large hearts, but hearts to watch:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — the breed’s key risk; choose breeders who echo-screen annually.
- Hip dysplasia — yes, cats get it too, especially big ones; keep them lean.
- Spinal muscular atrophy — DNA-testable; reputable breeders screen.
Budget at a glance
- Kitten price: typically $1,800–$3,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $35–$70/month — see our Maine Coon insurance guide.
- Budget for the big-cat tax: food, litter and grooming all cost more at this size.
Is a Maine Coon right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Families with space for a gentle giant
- Homes wanting a sociable cat that gets along with everyone
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Everything costs more in giant size — food, litter, carriers
- That magnificent coat needs regular combing
Food, insurance & the full guide
🍖 Best food: Large-breed cat formula with joint support
🛡️ Insurance: Maine Coon insurance guide — heart & hips
📖 Full Maine Coon breed guide →
Read the full Maine Coon guide → Take the 60-second breed quiz 🏡