VetLens
Try Free

Maine Coon Health Guide

These gentle giants are the largest domestic cats, and their size puts extra stress on their hearts and joints.

12-15

Years Lifespan

10-25

Pounds (Adult)

Medium

Health Risk

#3

CFA Popularity

Heart Screening Is Essential

Maine Coons have a genetic predisposition to HCM, the most common feline heart disease. Regular echocardiograms and DNA testing for breeding cats are strongly recommended.

What Makes Maine Coons Unique

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed with several characteristics affecting their health:

  • Giant size: Males can exceed 25 lbs; puts stress on joints and heart
  • Slow maturity: Take 3-5 years to reach full size; extended growth period
  • Long, thick coat: Water-resistant fur requires regular grooming
  • Tufted paws: Extra fur between toes needs monitoring
  • Active, playful nature: Need exercise despite large size; helps maintain weight

Major Health Conditions

1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

~30% at risk

The most significant health concern for Maine Coons. HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken, reducing pumping efficiency. A specific gene mutation (MyBPC3) has been identified.

Watch for:

  • • Rapid breathing at rest
  • • Lethargy, weakness
  • • Open-mouth breathing
  • • Hind leg paralysis = emergency (clot)

Prevention:

  • • DNA test before breeding
  • • Annual echocardiograms
  • • Medications can help manage
  • • Avoid breeding positive cats

2. Hip Dysplasia

18-24% affected

Maine Coons have the highest incidence of hip dysplasia among cat breeds. Their large size puts significant stress on the hip joints, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.

Signs:

  • • Reluctance to jump
  • • Stiff gait, limping
  • • Difficulty climbing stairs
  • • Decreased activity

Management:

  • • Maintain healthy weight
  • • Joint supplements (glucosamine)
  • • Pain medication as needed
  • • X-ray screening for breeding cats

3. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Genetic

A hereditary condition causing progressive weakness of the trunk and limb muscles. Symptoms appear around 3-4 months. Affected cats have normal lifespans but reduced mobility.

Signs:

  • • Muscle wasting (hind legs first)
  • • Wobbly gait
  • • Difficulty jumping
  • • Progressive weakness

What to know:

  • • DNA test available
  • • Recessive gene—test carriers
  • • No pain, normal lifespan
  • • Adapt environment for mobility

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Lower risk

While less common than in Persians, Maine Coons can carry PKD. Cysts gradually form in the kidneys, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease in middle age or later.

Warning signs:

  • • Increased thirst/urination
  • • Weight loss
  • • Poor appetite
  • • Lethargy

Prevention:

  • • DNA test for breeding cats
  • • Ultrasound screening
  • • Annual bloodwork
  • • Early intervention helps

5. Dental Disease & Gingivitis

Common

Maine Coons are prone to periodontal disease, gingivitis, and tooth resorption. Their larger mouths don't prevent dental crowding and plaque buildup.

Signs:

  • • Bad breath
  • • Red, swollen gums
  • • Difficulty eating
  • • Drooling

Prevention:

  • • Annual dental exams
  • • Professional cleanings
  • • Dental treats
  • • Home brushing if tolerated

6. Obesity & Joint Stress

Risk factor

Already large, extra weight on Maine Coons worsens hip dysplasia, stresses the heart, and increases diabetes risk. Weight management is critical for this breed.

Concerns:

  • • Worsens hip dysplasia
  • • Strains heart (especially with HCM)
  • • Increases diabetes risk
  • • Reduces mobility and quality of life

Management:

  • • Measure food portions
  • • Interactive play daily
  • • Weight checks at vet visits
  • • Know your cat's ideal weight

Bloodwork Considerations for Maine Coons

When reviewing your Maine Coon's bloodwork, consider these breed-specific factors:

  • ProBNP or NT-proBNP: Cardiac biomarker that can indicate heart stress; useful for HCM monitoring
  • Kidney values (BUN, Creatinine, SDMA): Monitor for PKD, especially after middle age
  • Glucose: Monitor for diabetes, especially in overweight cats
  • T4 (thyroid): Hyperthyroidism can mask heart disease; check in senior cats

Use our cat blood test value checker to interpret your Maine Coon's results, but always discuss breed-specific concerns with your veterinarian.

Preventive Care for Maine Coons

Daily Care

  • Regular brushing — 2-3 times weekly minimum to prevent mats
  • Interactive play — keep them active to maintain healthy weight
  • Monitor breathing — watch for changes in respiratory rate at rest
  • Check paw tufts — trim excess fur, check for debris
  • Measure food portions — prevent overfeeding despite large size

Recommended Health Screenings

✓
HCM DNA test
Essential before breeding
✓
Echocardiogram
Annually, starting at age 1
✓
Hip X-rays
For breeding cats
✓
SMA DNA test
Before breeding
✓
Annual bloodwork
Including kidney panel
✓
Dental exam
Annual with cleaning as needed
✓
Senior wellness screening
Bi-annual exams for cats 7+

When to See the Vet Immediately

Emergency Signs - Seek Immediate Care:

  • Sudden hind leg paralysis or coldness (blood clot)
  • Open-mouth breathing or severe respiratory distress
  • Collapse or extreme weakness
  • Rapid breathing at rest (over 40 breaths/minute)
  • Not eating for 24+ hours
  • Straining to urinate or no urination
  • Severe vomiting or bloody stool

Understand Your Maine Coon's Health Better

Upload your Maine Coon's bloodwork or medical records to VetLens for instant, AI-powered explanations tailored to your cat's results.

Upload Your Cat's Records Free

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average lifespan of a Maine Coon?

Maine Coons typically live 12-15 years. Their lifespan is affected by genetic conditions like HCM, hip dysplasia, and SMA. Responsible breeding and regular health screenings can help identify issues early.

What is HCM in Maine Coons?

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats and Maine Coons are genetically predisposed to it. It causes thickening of the heart muscle, reducing efficiency. A DNA test can identify the mutation, and echocardiograms can detect the disease.

Do Maine Coons get hip dysplasia?

Yes, Maine Coons have a high incidence of hip dysplasia—approximately 18-24% are affected. Their large size puts extra stress on joints. X-ray screening is recommended, and maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce symptoms.

What is SMA in Maine Coons?

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disease causing progressive muscle weakness starting around 3-4 months of age. It's caused by a recessive gene mutation. DNA testing can identify carriers. Affected cats have a normal lifespan but may have mobility issues.

How big do Maine Coons get?

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Males typically weigh 15-25 pounds, while females weigh 10-15 pounds. They can take 3-5 years to reach full size. Their large size contributes to certain health issues like hip dysplasia.