Most Prevalent Health Issues in the Maine Coon Breed
Most prevalent health issues in the Maine Coon breed.
As with all purebred animals, purebred Maine Coons are at a higher risk for health and genetic issues due to selective breeding. By limiting the gene pool from selective breeding versus a large gene pool when mix breeds procreate, more issues can be “in the lines” and harder to avoid. The most prevalent issues found in Maine Coons are listed below. Whether working with our cattery or another, it is important to know the possible risks of owning a purebred pet and to be able to feel confident in the breeder you choose to work with.
HCM Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy - About 30% of Maine Coons carry a gene that increases their chance of having HCM. HCM is a serious condition in which the heart walls thicken, making it more difficult for it to function properly. Blood clots or even heart failure can occur. Genetic testing and Echos can be conducted to catch HCM. Testing via echo should be done after 1 year of age since the heart is still developing prior to that age, some vet’s even recommend waiting until 2 years old for this scanning.
All of my queens and king have come from lines negative for HCM, tested through genetic tests and echos. HCM can develop at any age and so routine checks are done on all breeding lines to ensure the lines are still clear of this health issue.
Hip Dysplasia - A joint problem in the hips. Leads to pain and mobility issues.This condition is more common in larger breeds, such as Maine Coons. Many are aware of this issue in large dog breeds, such as German Shepherds and Great Danes. Hip scans are conducted at appropriate ages (between 1-2 years old) when the hip is developed enough to show signs.
All of my cats come from lines without this condition and will be scanned at the appropriate age per my veteran’s recommendation.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) - A neuromuscular issue causing muscle weakness and mobility issues. This typically shows at 3-4 months old with tremors and muscle weakness. No treatment is available however, supportive care is available.
My cats come from lines without this issue and have 0 concerns on their genetic testing.
Polycystic Kidney disease (PKD) - A condition in which cysts develop on the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. This concern can be found on genetic tests and was negative for my breeding cats.
Along with these more serious issues, Maine Coons can have gingivitis/stomatitis (bad teeth and gums). Nasal issues such as being more sensitive to environmental allergens and being more susceptible to respiratory infections (sneezing, coughing, discharge) due to the differently shaped nasal and sinus cavity are also common in the breed. Brushing teeth or dental cleanings (typically later in life), adding a teeth & gums health additive to their water, having humidifiers or air purifiers, and routine checks on your kitty can help them immensely.
With the sale of a kitten, I offer 1 month of free pet insurance through Trupanion (code given at the time of the sale of the kitten). Having pet insurance can be very helpful for recurrent issues such as teeth issues, allergies, respiratory infections, or any other issue causing routine/recurrent vet intervention.
Precautions and education on breeding lines are taken by Snowberry Maine Coons. If health concerns do crop up in a certain line, whether in my cattery or a relative of one of my cats, extra care is conducted, which may result in the early retirement of that line. It is incredibly important to us that we provide healthy kittens that can live long and happy lives. It is also incredibly important and helpful to all (ethical) breeders that if a health issue comes up with your pet, you notify the breeder so additional investigations may be conducted to support future prevention of those issues.
Tetradactyl? NOO!! Polydactyl
Maine Coons can be polydactyl meaning they have extra thumbs!
A little on polydactyl cats. Typically, cats have 18 toes, 5 on each front foot and 4 on each back foot. Polydactyl is a dominant genetic mutation, meaning only one parent cat needs to carry the gene in order for a kitten to get this gene, in which the cat has extra toes than is normal. Typically, extra “thumbs” will show up on the front feet, with as many as 7 total toes on a foot. Some speculate that this mutation developed in snowy climates and refer to it as “showshoe paws” as it gives cats extra-wide weight disbursement allowing for easier treks through the snow. Interesting fact, historically, sailors found polydactyl cats to be lucky and would bring them on ships.
While being polydactyl is not in itself a health concern, it does require additional proper care for it to not become a health issue. Typically, cats are able to scratch posts and such to keep their claws at a healthy length. Unfortunately, the paws get crowded with extra toes, sometimes the extra toes being in unique or difficult positions to actually scratch a post to shorten the claws, and the claw of the extra thumbs can continue to grow and curl up through the foot. This can resemble if they stepped on a big thorn that went through their foot. It is extremely painful for the cat.
Proper routine nail trimming is a necessity for cats with extra toes. If you are uncomfortable trimming nails or your cat unintentionally makes it difficult, you can make appointments with a groomer or at your veterinary clinic for routine nail trims. Trimming nails is a necessary commitment if you own a polydactyl cat. Nail trims are best managed if they are conducted every 2-3 weeks.
Some people have asked about the option to de-claw. Our policy (as mentioned in our sales agreement) at Snowberry Maine Coons is that de-clawing is prohibited on our cats and kittens. Aside from taking away your cats’ main source of protection, declawing is painful, traumatic, and possibly life threatening. De-clawing is a very traumatic surgery that many vets will actually refuse to conduct. The surgery requires cutting off the whole last digit of every toe. This is extremely painful and with so many open wounds on their feet and given that cats dig to use the litterbox, cats are at an extremely higher risk to become infected. Death can even occur due to sepsis.
That being said, we advocate for the individual health of every cat/kitten. Please consult with your veterinarian about any tricky extra thumbs. If the de-clawing of the extra thumb is advised due to it’s location, difficulty to trim, and its extra curling nature, please listen to your vet. A second opinion never hurts either. We say this because although we have never de-clawed any of our cats, we have had one breeding cat that had an extra thumb that needed checked weekly due to its location and extra curl. Luckily, we were able to manage this just fine, but we understand that some cats may not tolerate this type of handling/nail trimming weekly. Please consult your vet if you have a similar issue or are concerned.
The Process of Adopting Your Maine Coon Kitten
Learn how to adopt your kitten at Snowberry Maine Coons
Make sure to fill out the kitten application on the website. It is helpful to review articles on my website (like this one), see our updates on the home page, and view our cats and kitten page. If you have any questions your are welcome to reach out to us. We also have a section for your questions on the kitten application.
Once we receive and review your application, we will reach out with the most current updates on the next kittens available, as well as, payment instructions to place your deposit. Initial deposits are $500 and go towards the total of your kitten. This deposit secures your spot on the waitlist. If you are wanting multiple kittens, it is still $500 for the deposit and we confirm with you later if you still want two. This deposit is 1/2 refundable in case circumstances change.
Once the deposit is received, we will let you know your place on the waitlist. From there, depending on how long you have to wait for kittens, you will receive emails. The waitlist is also viewable on our website homepage.
The first email regarding your potential kitten will be within a week after kittens are born. In this email we will let you know potential genders (as best we can tell at that age), your place on the waitlist, and ask that you confirm or deny that you want a kitten from this litter. Once you deny your place for the litter mentioned, we cannot add you back as we have already let others know that they will get a kitten very soon. So be sure you want to wait before saying so. It is important to note that we will give a window of time (typically a weekend) and kitten must be picked up within a week of this window. We do not offer boarding at this time so if you are unavailable during the pick-up window please make arrangements with a friend, family member, or pet sitter. If you are unable or not wanting to go that route, you can wait for the next litter. If you are considering more than one kitten, this would also be the time to tell us how many you are looking to adopt.
Weekly photos will be posted on our Instagram @snowberry.mainecoons. We also will post weekly photos on the website under “kittens”.
Kittens will start to show a bit of personality traits between 6-8 weeks old, as well as, give us a better idea of their coloring. Since Maine Coons are priced based on coloring, gender, and how many toes they have, we will determine prices at this time when colors are easier to determine. I will post the price on the website until they become unavailable/reserved. We will also send out an email with all of the kittens and their price breakdowns.
If you would like a video call to view the kittens and discuss personalities, please request this asap for around 6 weeks old.
Choosing a kitten will be first-come, first-serve to those on the waitlist once we post the prices and alert everyone that picking has begun (we will give you a window when choosing can start). When choosing a kitten, we require $1,000 to secure the specific kitten. This amount goes towards the end balance. Please keep in mind that if we do not think the kitten’s personality will fit well in your home (such as a quiet, timid kitten in a home with 5 kids - a kitten will likely hide under beds or become scared of all the commotion and become a ghost in your home), we will discuss this with you. We try my best to make sure kittens will thrive in their new homes, and families adopt the kitten they always dreamed of (not one that is too scared or a little too crazy haha). We will confirm the pickup weekend before picking begins so you can ensure you are available to pick up the kitten within the allotted time.
Once we hit 6 weeks old, a lot happens for kittens. They receive their first vaccines and deworming. Their first vet appointment will be at 8 weeks old. Typically, our kittens are fully litter box trained by 6 weeks old as well.
Kittens will go home with the first round of deworming, first two vaccines of FVRCP, and their first vet exam. We do not give multiple vaccines at once since this is stressful on the kitten and it can be harder to tell which vaccine gave them a reaction if they happen to react poorly. Microchips are given with a large, and painful needle so we recommend this be done at their spay/neuter (while they are under/on pain killers). Kittens will come home with one free month of Trupanion pet insurance. This must be activated within 48 hours of the designated pick-up day. This information will be on the sales agreement.
Once your kitten is picked and secured we recommend you start shopping! We have a list of shopping wants and needs under the article “Shopping for your kitten”. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Between 8-9 weeks old we will coordinate and finalize pick-up times. We do not ship in cargo due to stress on the kitten (as well as incredibly hiked costs since COVID). You can drive or fly to pick-up your kitten. We will give coaching on whatever you choose. We am located in Bend, OR or we can meet you at the Redmond, OR airport. Kittens must be picked up within 1 week of the “go-home weekend” at about 10-12 weeks old (refer to the pick-up window given). Once we have a date/time locked in, please make sure to schedule the kitten's first vet appointment with your vet within 5 business days of picking up the kitten. Failure to do so will void the health guarantee.
We will give instructions for the first two weeks at home. Basically keep separate from other pets, especially other cats until health screenings are complete. FELV/FIV testing should be done on any current cats in the home prior to the kitten arriving. Kittens should start off in a small room for the first two weeks or so to get acclimated to this big change and to ensure litter training doesn’t regress. Introductions to other pets should be done gradually first with smells, then sight, then supervision until you are confident everyone is safe and comfortable. Fortiflora, a probiotic, should be sprinkled on you kitten’s food daily for the first two weeks to help prevent any stomach upset from the stress of the move and/or changing foods.
Reach out with any questions, concerns, or updates!
Spay/neuter between 6 and 7 ½ months old. I recommend getting a microchip at this time. Once I receive proof of altering, I will send the pedigree information. Listen to your vet on their recommendation of when to spay/neuter.
Shopping For Your New Kitten
Learn more about what items you should purchase for your kitten.
There are many items to have in your home when you welcome a kitten into your family. Some necessary items include:
Nulo Freestyle Cat & Kitten Chicken and Cod flavored dry kibble
All cats and kittens at Snowberry Maine Coons are fed the above kibble (mixed 1:1 with the next food item). Continue this food when bringing a kitten home and take 2 weeks minimum to transition to another food. The 2 weeks transition should have a ratio mix of their old food to new food such as 4:1, then 1:1, then 1:4, and finally fully new food. FortiFlora should be sprinkled on their food for the first two weeks in their new home as well as any time you switch foods to support them with any stomach upset they may have from the stressful changes. We free-feed our cats/kittens which means we leave food out at all times. Consult with your veterinarian if you would like to go on a feeding schedule.
Stella & Chewy’s Wild Caught Salmon Flavored Raw Coated kibble
See above note about feeding
Purina ProPlan Veterinary Supplements FortiFlora
Water
Dishes for food and water
Litterbox
Please keep in mind that Maine Coons are large breeds. While you can start with a smaller litterbox, the typical minimum size we recommend getting for Maine Coons would be 20-24 inches long with the sides being at least 6-8 inches tall. If you notice that your cat either gets messy paws or tail (this is common for kittens as they learn, but if it does not improve as they get older), or that they go to the bathroom right outside of he litterbox, it is too small. Some Maine Coon owners will use storage tubs with a (sanded for safety) hole cut out for entry.
At Snowberry Maine Coons, we start the kittens in open-topped litterboxes, add covers without doors, and then add the doors to the covers so the kittens are used to using many different litter box items.
Please keep in mind that the general rule of thumb for how many litter boxes to have is 1 litterbox per cat PLUS 1. Having accessible litter boxes on every floor of your home is also recommended.
We recommend scooping the litter boxes daily to reduce smells, debris, and for your cats comfort.
Having enough litterboxes, litterboxes that are easily accessible, and keeping up with the cleanliness of them can help prevent your cat(s) from accidents outside the box. If they can’t get to their box in time, or they have higher cleanliness standards, cats may use the bathroom in inappropriate locations.
Litter
We start our kittens on a pellet litter as they are being potty trained and slowly transition to a generic clumping clay litter. We do this for multiple reasons. One, so they are are used to multiple options, and two, because as kittens are learning, they sometimes decide to eat the litter and the pellets are less upsetting to their stomachs than the clay, clumping litter. They grow out of this before they go to their new homes.
Cats can have a preference to the type, texture, and smell of their litter. Some may even have reactions to the litter (sneezing or goopy eyes from the dust or smell) so pay attention to the reaction they have to their litter and make adjustments as needed.
There are even more natural litter options, some are even flushable and safe for drains! (Please follow litter instructions and be aware of your drain health in your home, especially older drains may not be able to handle flushable litter).
Litterbox scooper
We prefer large, metal scoopers for their durability and their easy cleaning (and non-absorbent material for smells and germs).
Cat trees/towers
Cats can be sensitive animals. They have their preferences and can become stressful and have not so desirable habits or emotions when they are unhappy. Providing them with their own cat trees/towers or even wall climbing options can increase their happiness.
We believe that a cat is either a “tree-dweller” (likes to be up high), or a “bush-dweller” (likes to be down low and hidden). If we notice they have a preference when they are young, we will let you know. Pay attention to your cat’s preferences so you can get them their favorite dwellings!
Scratchers (posts or floor scratchers)
If you purchase a cat tree, they often have scratching posts on the bottom.
Having scratching options through the home will help your cat’s nail health as well as deter them from scratching undesirable locations.
Toys
Pay attention to how your cat interacts with toys for preferences and safety. If your cat attempts to swallow or DOES swallow a non-edible toy, do not have keep that toy or anything similar in the home. An example: if you notice the hard foam balls have evidence of chewing pieces off but you cannot find pieces, remove that and all similar textured toys. Alert your veterinarian and ask for guidance if you assume your cat swallowed a whole or partial toy. Consuming toys can cause an obstruction and require life-saving surgery.
Many cats LOVE real-fur toys. However, sometimes this love is so strong they consume the toys. Please be aware that although natural, your cats should not consume toys that are not noted as consumable (even natural toys/materials such as fur).
Brush
Brushing your cat 2-3 times per week will help their coats stay healthy, reduce mats, reduce cat hair left on your furniture and floors, and help reduce hairballs. If you notice matting you may need to brush more often or hire a groomer for routine appointments.
Nail trimmers
Please use nail trimmers made for cats. Others can cause harm or painful hang nails
Educate yourself on nail trimming your cat if you plan to do it yourself. If you cut too far on your cat’s nails you will “quick” them, causing a lot of bleeding that is hard to stop as well as pain and trauma to your cat.
Nails need trimmed every 2-3 weeks (especially polydactyl cats - see the polydactyl article on our site under “Info”)
If you are uncomfortable or your cat makes it more difficult to safely cut their nails, ask your veterinarian or groomer about routine services. Nail trims are typically pretty cheap and quick work for these professionals.
Cat carrier
We will not send a kitten with it’s new owner without a carrier at the time of pick-up. A carrier ensures safe travels and that your cat does not escape from your hands and get lost outside.
We recommend your new kitten be in a carrier while traveling, unless another individual in the car can hold the kitten/cat. Driving by yourself with a cat loose in the car can cause a wreck due to distraction or if your cat decides to go down to your feet and get in the way of the pedals, which can cause a car accident.
We often travel with our cats in a dog crate in the back of the car to give them more safe space and a litter box for longer traveling.
If you plan to fly with your cat, there are TSA-approved carriers and crates.
Keep in mind that a Maine Coon will outgrow the typical cat carrier size, including the carry-on TSA carrier. You will need to eventually invest in a large cat carrier.
Some optional items, some of which we highly recommend include:
Chicken Gerber Baby Food
We offer this as a low-ingredient snack/treat to our cats/kittens. Other wet or raw foods are an option. Please keep in mind that adding or changing food can be upsetting to their stomach as they adjust. Follow instructions for food storage, especially if you decide to switch to a raw diet or offer raw food.
Creative Science BreathLyser Dog & Cat Dental Water Additive
We recommend getting a water additive for healthy teeth and gums. We use the additive listed above however, there are many water additive options. Please pay attention to your cat’s water intake and bathroom habits. Some cats may be sensitive to the water additive and have diarrhea and/or dislike the taste and as a result drink less water. Consult your veterinarian when choosing a water additive.
Non-absorbent Litter Mat
We recommend purchasing a litter mat for outside of the litterbox. There are many options for these. We recommend these mate for overall cleanliness, many trap litter to reduce the amount of litter your cat or kitten tracks through the house. Another reason we recommend this, is in the case your cat or kitten has an accident outside the box (as mentioned above, under “Litter box”), this protects your floors from staining and smells.
Pet Carpet cleaner - We like Woolite. We also have a handheld carpet shampooer (worth the price for how many cats we have!)
It is so wonderful that cats keep themselves clean! Unfortunately, that means that cats also throw up hair balls. There are other reasons cats may throw up. Monitor this and always reach out to your veterinarian with any concerns.
Cat beds
Some cats like their own plush or even heated cat beds. Others would prefer the couch, the middle of the kitchen floor, your bed, or a cardboard box. Don’t be offended if your cat does not like the furniture you buy them. They are very opinionated creatures.
Cat trees/scratching posts/towers
Collar/harness
Ensure these are the correct size (routinely check) and tightness so they are not too tight and not escapable
If you take your cat on walks, please make sure they are fully vaccinated (check with your veterinarian), use a harness and not the collar to attach to their leash, and ensure the harness fits correctly so your cat does not squeeze out of it
Leash
If you decide to take outside (see note under “collar/harness”)
Pricing
Pricing is based on being TICA associated, ethically bred, and the current Maine Coon market. Pricing may be updated to reflect the market/economy changes.
Some discounts are available upon review of your kitten application.
Maine Coons are priced based on coloring, gender, and whether they are polydactyl or not (extra thumbs). Snowberry’s base price for a kitten starts at $2,500 and ranges to $5,000. Pricing of individual kittens are posted at 6 weeks old on the website and Instagram. Picking kittens will be completed between 6-8 weeks old and kittens are to go home at 12 weeks old. Picking will be first-come-first-serve of deposit placed to reserve kitten (see below). A “pick-up window” of 2 days will be given and kittens must be picked up within one week of this window.
We accept Venmo, and Paypal for payments #1 and #2. Final payment must be in cash.
How to get your kitten:
Initial Deposit (holds your spot on the waitlist): $500
Initial deposits are 1/2 refundable if circumstances change, no other refunds
Specific kitten deposit (secures a specific kitten - due at 6-8 weeks old when choosing your kitten): Half of kitten total (base $1,000)
Due by pick-up in CASH (base ½ ): $1,000 + any additives
Additives:
Male: +$500
Polydactyl: +$500
Color price additive: ( see colors article )
Base price (+0): Tabbies, Torbies, Reds
+500: solids, bi-color, torties, smokes
Rare:
Two different colored eyes: +$500
Torbie/tortie male: +$500 (not including the male price increase)
Red female: +$500
Blue eyes: +$500
Colors and Mutations
Maine Coons come in a large array of colors! Colors within a cattery depend on the genetics of the queen (mom cat) and stud (dad cat). Some colors are less common or even rare, regardless of the parent genetics. This all depends on the genetics the parents carry and whether they are dominant or recessive genes.
Colors
Tabby (different variations)
Based on color (black, brown, blue, red, etc)
Based on pattern (mackerel, classic, ticked)
Tortoiseshell “Tortie”
Two-tones of black and red, no white
Calico
Mix of red, black, and white with no stripes, possibly will look mottled or brindled
Torbie
Like the tortie coloring with stripes
“Solids”
no stripes
Smoke
genetics must contain some “solid” in at least one side of family line for this look to be expressed.
Smoke refers to the undercoat pattern, not necessarily a color.
Smoke is when the base of the fur is white or silver and darkens to the original, solid coloring at the tips.
Mutations
Polydactyl
Max 7 toes each paw. Dominant trait mutation. Some believe these are “snowshoe paws” mutation
Two different colored eyes
Referred to as heterochromia, typically with white or white-toned cats. Commonly white cats with blue or heterochromia eyes may be deaf due to the mutation associated with the white fur, blue eyed genes.
Chance of deafness in white cats without blue eyes: 17-22%
Chance of deafness in heterochromia white cats: 40%
Chance of deafness in white cat with two blue eyes: 65-85%
Red/Cream females & tortie/torbie/calica males
Red is determined by the X chromosome. Red females is more rare because both parents must carry the red gene and result in two X chromosomes that present red
Tortie/Torbie/Calico males are extremely rare. This requires that the cat receives black and red alleles from the X chromosome. The X chromosome can only carry one, which is why this is generally seen in females (XX). This coloring would require the male to have XXY chromosomes rather than XY, with one X having red and the other X having black. This is known as Klinefelter syndrome. This syndrome causes: rare color patterns for males, possible infertility, possible growth delays and bone weaknesses.
Creams/diluted reds. Cream is a diluted red gene and still requires that the X chromosome carry red. A dilution gene must also be present to be cream rather than red.