Discover the perfect Maine Coon kitten at MeoWoff Kittens in Wood Dale, IL. Our store specializes in raising healthy, well-socialized kittens for loving homes.
Explore our Maine Coon kittens for sale at MeoWoff Kittens, where we specialize in raising these magnificent feline companions. Known for their impressive size and loving personalities, our Maine Coon kittens are the perfect addition to any family. Visit our store in Wood Dale, IL, and experience our commitment to ethical breeding while finding the perfect Maine Coon kitten to bring joy and companionship to your home.
Maine Coon kittens combine striking physical presence with a gentle, social temperament, and buyers searching for “Maine Coon kittens for sale” want both pedigree and health assurances. This guide shows how to locate reputable, TICA-registered Maine Coon breeders near you, how to verify health testing and pedigree documentation, and what realistic costs and care obligations look like before and after adoption. Many prospective owners struggle to distinguish trustworthy catteries from inexperienced or fraudulent listings; this article offers practical verification steps, documentation checklists, and a step-by-step adoption timeline to reduce risk. You will learn the defining physical and temperament traits of TICA-registered Maine Coons, the genetic and veterinary screens responsible breeders provide (HCM, SMA, PKDef and hip checks), and how pricing is affected by bloodline, registration, and geography. The sections that follow cover finding and vetting breeders, price drivers and typical inclusions, TICA breed attributes, health verification checklists, adoption logistics and contract expectations, practical kitten care, and concise answers to common buyer questions including how to spot genuine online listings. Throughout, the emphasis is on evidence-based checks, sample contract items to request, and clear signals that separate responsible breeders from risky offers.
Size and Development
A defining characteristic of the Maine Coon is its remarkable size. They grow into one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, a trait that is noticeable even in young kittens. An adult male typically weighs between 13 and 18 pounds, while females weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. A unique aspect of their development is their slow maturation rate; Maine Coons do not reach their full physical size until they are three to five years old, which is significantly longer than most other cat breeds.
Coat and Colors
Beyond their size, the coat of a Maine Coon is one of its most distinctive features. Even as kittens, they have a dense, heavy, and water-repellent coat—a clear adaptation to their origins in a cold climate. The breed comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including solid black or white, bi-color, tabby, and tortoiseshell. This diversity in coat appearance makes every Maine Coon unique.
Distinctive Features
Several other physical traits make the Maine Coon stand out. They have large, expressive eyes that typically come in shades of green, gold, or copper; however, white Maine Coons may have blue eyes or two different colored eyes. Their ears are large and wide at the base, often with distinctive tufts of fur at the tips. Finally, the Maine Coon’s bushy tail strongly resembles a raccoon’s tail, which is how the breed earned part of its name. This impressive tail not only adds to their beautiful appearance but also serves a practical purpose, as they can wrap it around themselves for warmth.
Health and Lifespan
With proper care and routine veterinary visits, a healthy Maine Coon can have a lifespan of 15 years or more. They are generally a robust breed, but it is important for owners to be aware of certain genetic health conditions. These can include hip dysplasia (a condition affecting the hip joint) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a common form of heart disease in cats). Regular check-ups are essential for early detection and management, helping to ensure your Maine Coon enjoys a long and healthy life.
When it comes to their character, Maine Coon Kittens are as unique as how they look. Even with their big size and impressive look, these kittens are very gentle and have a great reputation for being friendly. They are social, loving, and known for their loyalty to the people they care about.
Even as kittens, Maine Coons show a fun and calm nature. They can play with toys for hours but are also happy to nap with their favorite person. A Maine Coon kitten often greets their owner at the door, much like a dog. They also love to play fetch.
Maine Coon kittens are very smart and curious. This shows in how well they solve problems. They learn quickly and adjust easily to new places and situations. Their natural curiosity makes them want to explore their surroundings. This trait makes them very interactive pets that enjoy being part of family activities.
However, even with their friendly nature, Maine Coon kittens also like their own space. They are happy to spend some time alone and do not ask for too much attention. This mix of being social and independent, along with their warm personality, makes them great companions.
Maine Coons are friendly with other pets and kids, making them great for any family. However, early socializing is very important. Introduce your Maine Coon kitten to various people, pets, sights, sounds, and experiences. This will help them become a balanced and well-adjusted cat.
Maine Coon Kittens are big and full of energy. They need a good diet that has plenty of protein. It is important to feed them high-quality kitten food that meets their special needs. You should pay attention to how much you give them. Feeding them too much can lead to weight gain, which many Maine Coons face. Always make sure they have fresh water, especially if they eat dry food.
Maine Coons are known for their soft, thick fur, which needs regular grooming to keep them looking great. Even as kittens, it is good to start a grooming routine. Brush your Maine Coon kitten’s fur at least once a week. This helps to stop tangles and hairballs. It also helps keep their skin healthy. Bathing is not needed very often because Maine Coons have coats that repel water. However, you should clean their ears and brush their teeth regularly. It is also important to check and trim their nails often.
Maine Coon kittens may seem strong, but they can have some health issues that owners need to know about. A common problem is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a type of heart disease found in this breed. It’s important to take them for regular vet visits, which should include heart checks. Maine Coons can also have hip dysplasia, which harms their hip joint. Make sure your Maine Coon kitten gets checked for these issues and receives the right care to prevent problems.
Maine Coon kittens can live about 10 to 15 years if you take good care of them. Many live even longer. They are a strong breed. With regular vet visits, good food, and a happy home, your Maine Coon kitten can become a healthy and happy cat.
Maine Coon kittens are large, affectionate, and intelligent cats known as “gentle giants.” They make excellent family pets. Finding a healthy, purebredkitten starts with a reputable, registered cattery or agency (like Meowoff) that provides genetic testing, a health guarantee, and lifetime support for your new pet.
The Maine Coon personality is famously described as a “gentle giant.” They are incredibly good-natured, intelligent, and often described as “dog-like.” I’ve personally known Maine Coons who play fetch, come when called, and follow their owners from room to room.
They are also very vocal, but not in the typical loud, demanding way of some cats. They communicate with a variety of soft chirps and trills. It’s an endearing sound you’ll quickly come to love. While they are affectionate, they aren’t always “lap cats.” Many prefer to be near you, perhaps sitting on the sofa next to you or “supervising” your work from a nearby cat tree, rather than being smothered.
They are one of the best cat breeds for families. Their legendary patience and sturdy build make them fantastic companions for children. They are playful and “clownish,” often retaining a kitten-like personality well into adulthood, but they are seldom aggressive.
This easygoing nature usually extends to other pets, including other cats and even cat-friendly dogs. My friend’s Maine Coon regularly naps with their Golden Retriever. Because they are so social and thrive on companionship, maine coon pets for sale are in high demand by active, busy households.
Maine Coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds. Males are noticeably larger than females, typically weighing between 15 to 25 pounds. Females are usually in the 10 to 15-pound range. They are not just heavy; they are long, muscular cats that can stretch over 40 inches from nose to tail tip.
This giantbreed takes a long time to mature, often not reaching their full size until they are 3 to 5 years old. The average lifespan for a healthy Maine Coon is around 12 to 15 years, so you are committing to a long-term companion.
They shed moderately, but their coat is surprisingly easy to manage. Unlike a Persian, their fur is shaggier and less prone to matting. A good brushing two or three times a week is usually enough to keep it healthy.
And yes, the rumors are true: many Maine Coonslove water. It’s not a universal trait, but don’t be shocked if your kitten tries to “help” you do the dishes, splashes in their water bowl, or even tries to join you in the shower. I’ve heard stories of them sitting by a lake and dipping their paws in, completely fascinated.
A Polydactyl Maine Coon is a cat with extra toes. This is a natural, harmless genetic trait that was once very common in the breed, especially in their home state of Maine. These “mitten-footed” cats were thought to be better hunters and more stable on ships.
Today, it’s a unique trait that some breeders, including us at Meowoff, cherish. A Polydactyl kitten is just as healthy as its normal-toed littermates. They, like all purebredMaine Coons, are also known for their beautiful “lynx” tips—the tufts of fur at the very end of their ears.
A responsible breeder must test their breeding cats for the most common hereditary diseases. At Meowoff, all our kings and queens are screened for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). We do this through DNA testing and, for heart health, regular echocardiograms.
HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy): This is the most common heart disease in cats. It causes the heart wall to thicken, and responsible breeders test parent cats to reduce the risk.
SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy): This is a genetic condition that affects the neurons controlling skeletal muscles, leading to weakness.
PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease): This disease causes cysts to form on the kidneys.
Ask any breeder for copies of these test results. If they can’t or won’t provide them, that is a massive red flag.
A healthy kitten should be bright, active, and curious. When you visit (in person or via video call), look for clear, bright eyes with no discharge. Their nose should be clean and slightly damp, not runny. You also want to see a clean, fluffy rear end, which indicates good digestive health.
They should be playful and confident, not overly lethargic or hiding in a corner (though a little shyness at first is normal). A reputable breeder will also show you kittens that have had their first set of vaccinations and deworming. These are all good signs when you’re looking at maine coon babies for sale.
The COI is a percentage that shows how closely related the kitten’s parents are. A lower COI number is generally better, as it indicates greater genetic diversity and a lower risk of hereditary problems. You can see this by looking at a 5-generation pedigree.
A high COI (e.g., 25%, which is a brother-sister mating) is a huge health risk. Reputable breeders work with bloodlines from around the world to keep their COI low. We focus on building a healthy dynasty of cats, and we are happy to show you the pedigreed papers for any of our maine coon kittens.
Start by looking for breeders registered with organizations like TICA or CFA.TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association) are the world’s largest cat registries.
You can often find breeder directories on the TICA and CFA websites. Be prepared to find that the best maine coon breeders have waitlists. This is a good sign; it means they don’t overbreed and their kittens are in high demand.
A “kitten mill” or backyard breeder prioritizes profit over health. Be extremely cautious if you see these red flags:
Kittens always available: Responsible breeders have planned litters, not a constant supply.
Selling on Craigslist, Kijiji, or Facebook: Reputable breeders don’t sell cats on classified sites. This is a common place to find scam ads for “kittens for sale in maine” or “coons for sale in maine”.
No health testing: If they get defensive when you ask about HCM, run.
No contract: A contract protects you, the breeder, and the kitten.
Letting kittens go before 12 weeks: This is a major shortcut that’s bad for the kitten’s health and socialization.
Selling “maine coon mixes for sale”: A reputable breeder is dedicated to the purebred line, not creating mixes.
“Won’t let me visit”: While many catteries are “closed” to foot traffic to prevent diseases, a good breeder will offer extensive video calls, photos, and updates.
A good breeder will welcome your questions. Here are the most important ones to ask:
Can I see the DNA and echocardiogram health testing for the parent cats?
What is your cattery’s registration number with TICA or CFA?
What socialization do the kittens receive?
What is the COI (inbreeding percentage) of this litter?
What food do you feed your kittens maine coon?
What does your health guarantee cover?
Be prepared for the breeder to ask you questions, too! We want to know about your home, your family, your vet, and your experience with cats. It’s our job to ensure our maine coon baby kittens go to the best possible homes.
A pet-quality Maine Coon kitten from a reputable breeder typically costs between $1,800 and $3,500. This price reflects the immense cost and effort that goes into raising healthy, well-socialized cats.
The maine coon kitten prices cover the parents’ health testing (DNA, echos), high-quality food, vet visits, vaccinations, microchipping, and TICA or CFA registration. It also covers the 12-16 weeks of 24/7 care the breeder provides. The price for a Polydactyl kitten may be slightly higher due to its unique trait.
Both “pet” and “show” quality kittens are 100% purebred and healthy. The difference is purely cosmetic and based on the official TICAbreed standard. A “show quality” cat perfectly matches the standard for things like ear set, muzzle shape, and profile.
A “pet quality” kitten is just as wonderful but might have a minor “flaw,” like ears that are slightly too big or a coat that isn’t as dense. These traits don’t affect its health or ability to be an amazing pet in any way. When you see a maine coon kitten for sale, it will almost always be sold as a “pet.”
Be extremely cautious when you see “affordable maine coon kittens.” A low price is the biggest red flag. It almost always means the breeder has cut corners on health testing, quality food, or vet care, which can lead to heartbreaking and expensive health problems for you down the road.
If the breeder price is not in your budget, please consider a maine coon rescue. There are wonderful maine coon rescues dedicated to rehoming adults and mixes. This is a fantastic, ethical way to bring one of these magnificent cats into your life. You can also search for “maine coon kittens for adoption” or “coons for adoption” at local shelters.
The process to buy maine coon kittens from a cattery is designed to ensure a perfect match.
Application: You’ll first fill out an application so we can learn about your home and lifestyle.
Waitlist: Once approved, you can place a deposit to join our waitlist. Most reputable breeders have a waitlist, which can be anywhere from a few months to a year.
Kitten Selection: When a litter is born and the kittens are about 8-10 weeks old, we will contact people on the waitlist in order.
Contract: Once you’ve chosen your kitten, you’ll sign a contract that outlines our health guarantee and your responsibilities.
Go-Home Day: You can finally pick up your kitten when they are between 12 and 16 weeks old!
You should receive a folder of important documents. This includes:
A Signed Contract: This is the most important document. It must include a health guarantee (usually 1-3 years for genetic issues) and a spay/neuter clause, which states you agree to fix your pet by a certain age.
Health Record: This will show all vaccinations and deworming treatments the kitten has received.
TICA or CFA Registration: We will provide the TICA registration slip for your kitten. Most breeders hold this until you provide proof of spay/neuter.
Pedigree: We are happy to provide a copy of the kitten’s 5-generation pedigree.
No reputable breeder will let a kitten leave its mother before 12 weeks of age. We know it’s exciting to search for “kittens for sale near me,” but this 12-16 week period is critical.
During this time, the kitten learns vital social skills from its mom and littermates, completes its initial weaning, and builds a strong immune system from its first rounds of vaccines. Sending a kitten home too early (e.g., at 8 weeks) is a major red flag and can lead to behavioral and health issues.
Before your kitten comes home, you need to see your home from their perspective. Get on your hands and knees and look for dangers. Secure all electrical cords and blind pulls, as these are tempting but dangerous “toys.”
Remove any toxic houseplants (like lilies, which are deadly to cats). Secure window screens and make sure all cleaning supplies are locked away. It’s also best to set up a “safe room” for the kitten’s first few days.
You’ll want to have the essentials ready before your kitten arrives.
Food and Water: Get the same food the breeder was using to avoid an upset stomach.
Litter Box: Get a large, uncovered box. Maine Coons are a giantbreed and they grow fast—they’ll need the space!
Scratching Posts: Plural! Get tall, sturdy posts that allow them to get a full stretch.
Toys: Interactive wand toys are a favorite for this playful breed.
Grooming Brush: A steel comb is the best tool to start with.
Carrier: A sturdy, safe carrier for vet visits.
The key is to go slowly and be patient. Start by keeping your new kitten in its “safe room” for the first few days or even a week. This lets them acclimate to the new sights and smells in a secure space.
First, “scent swap” by rubbing a sock on each pet and letting the other smell it. Then, feed them on opposite sides of the closed door. After a few days, you can do short, supervised introductions. Never force it; let them set the pace.
Maine Coon kittens need a high-protein, high-quality diet to support their rapid growth. Look for food (whether it’s wet, dry, or a raw diet) where a named meat is the first ingredient. Many breeders, including Meowoff, recommend a combination of high-quality wet food and a grain-free kibble.
These large-breed cats have specific nutritional needs. Always follow the feeding guidelines for your kitten’s age and weight, and be sure to provide plenty of fresh water.
You should plan to brush your Maine Coon 2-3 times per week. Their long, shaggy coat is beautiful but will develop mats, especially under the “armpits” and on their belly, if neglected. The best brush for their fur is a long-toothed steel comb that can get all the way down to the skin.
You generally do not need to bathe your Maine Coon unless they get particularly dirty. Regular brushing is the key to preventing mats and keeping their coat in great condition.
This refers to two different “types” or “looks” within the same breed. Both are 100% Maine Coon.
American (Classic) Maine Coons: This is the look many people in the US are familiar with. They have a more moderate, “sweet” expression and a “shaggier” coat.
European Maine Coons: These cats are often bred to have a more “feral” or wild look. They typically have a very strong, square muzzle, high-set ears, and more pronounced lynx tips.
At Meowoff, we love both, but we specialize in the stunning, wild look of the European bloodlines. A striking silver or a dark smoke maine coon with this feral look is truly a breathtaking sight.
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