FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MAINECOON KITTEN
Can we add a kitten to a household with a mature cat already in residence?
As far as the older kitty, receiving a kitten, it is all about the introductions. There is a common 'myth' that older cats don't like kittens. It has not been our experience. And we are hard pressed to find our breeder families confirming this. It is all about the introduction. First impressions are lasting. In our personal experience, having a youngster (who is respectful of food, toys and sleep) brightens the older kitties. Just our anecdote. So, the key is to go very slowly. This is MUCH harder for humans than the cats whose life you are about to disrupt. The kitten is coming from a home surrounded by siblings, Aunties and Uncles. So having a new friend is not as big a deal for the newbie. Be patient and let them sniff each other under door jams. See elsewhere in our FAQs about "how" to introduce.
How can kittens travel to our home if we live a distance away?
1. Pet Transport Services
Many breeders offer pet transport services or can recommend certified pet transport companies. These services specialize in safely delivering pets to their new homes. They ensure that the kitten is comfortable and well-cared for during the journey. For example, some breeders may meet you at an airport for a fee, making the transition easier
.
2. Driving the Kitten Home
If you prefer to pick up the kitten yourself, consider driving to the breeder's location. Make sure to prepare your vehicle with a secure and comfortable carrier for the kitten. Bring along familiar items, such as a blanket or toy that smells like the kitten's mother, to help ease anxiety during the trip.
3. Air Travel
If the distance is significant, flying may be the best option. Check with airlines about their pet travel policies, as many allow pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. Ensure you have an appropriate carrier that meets airline regulations. It's also wise to book a direct flight to minimize travel time and stress for the kitten.
4. Preparation for the Journey
Regardless of the method of transport, prepare the kitten for the journey. Ensure they are comfortable in their carrier, and consider taking short trips beforehand to help them acclimate. Keep the environment calm and quiet during travel to reduce stress.
5. Health Considerations
Before traveling, ensure your kitten has had a health check-up and is up-to-date on vaccinations. Some transport services may require a health certificate from a veterinarian, so it's best to confirm this in advance.
6. Post-Arrival Care
Once you arrive home, give your new kitten time to adjust to their new environment. Set up a quiet space where they can feel safe and secure. Gradually introduce them to the rest of your home and any other pets you may have
What is it like to live with a Maine Coon Cat?
You have to live with a Maine Coon Cat to experience their unique personalities. And every cat has a unique personality. They are a definite presence in a home, not to be ignored. They truly improve the quality of your life in a very real way, providing a flood of affection to warm your heart and home. They are smart and become accustomed to routines and ensure they are part of them. Eventually their families ponder if they trained the cat or vice versa. – courtesy Judy Friedman, Coons’Kin Cattery .
Our cats are part of the family. If the doorbell rings, they often asnwer it before their humans. They naturally assume they have visitors and of course, they’re correct. Maine Coon Cats are the centers of all parties and often display antics for the entertainment of the human audience. They learn tricks and will respond to their names---- when they are so inclined. Cats respond to positive reinforcement. They don’t respond to typical negative reinforcement, as used with dogs. Cats know they are correct and if you chastize them it is surely your error. However they have short attention spans and can be easily distracted from something they ought not to be doing with a new shiny object.
What about toys and Maine Coon Cats?
One thing we love about Maine Coons is their play. If they are the dogs of the cat world they are also the Peter Pans. They act like kittens throughout their lives. As for toys, things that make noise & entice, like bells. Little waffle balls like golf balls with holes. Best deals are in golf sections (vs. animal areas) of stores like Target. Of course any box especially with paper packing. Hiding things in boxes is great fun. Coiled plastic springs are a big favorite (Amazon). Scratching boards/posts are absolutely critical. They will use these for “sharpening” nails, but are also instinctually marking territory. You must have an alternative to your furniture for scratching. Pet sections of most outlet stores have great options. Chewy.com has many toys too. Kittens and cats get bored with toys, like children, so keep rotating them to keep them entertained. The best “string” toys are “Neko” (RompiCatz) toys. They are expensive but the cats love them and they survive the test of time.
Cats love to have a place to observe their realm. And they like being eye-level with you or minimally watch what you’re doing. So high stools or short cat trees are welcome in kitchens . They are natural climbers, so cat trees are a necessity. They will get up and have a bird’s eye view somehow, even without a tree otherwise. So it is best to give them the device to climb of your choosing, lest they find their own objects to climb.
What do Maine Coon Cats eat?
Food: In general we urge a diet of as much wet food as possible. But little ones need the grain free kibble as a supplement. Wet food is the nearest to their natural diet. In the wild their diet is largely meat. They are obligate carnivores. If they eat grains or vegetables, it is because their prey had it for lunch. In general, any near, human quality food is good for a Maine Coon Cat. We recommend limiting seafood, despite their liking this. Mercury is in our seas and absorbed by deep sea fish. Shallow water, short lived fish is not a problem, like mackerel or sardines. Mercury cannot be metabolized by cats and is thought to contribute to cancer risk. Read labels of food. If there are many non-understandable words, don’t buy it. If products say “animal by-products” replace it on the shelf. Look for familiar words and the first ingredients ought to be those you understand.
None of these foods are the cheapest. But your Maine Coon deserves the best.
Wet: Applaws products are all great. Best flavors are; chicken, turkey, duck and duck with chicken. Applaws kitten is good or cut up the adult kind, especially chichekn. It is human grade, only three ingredients. Petco frequently has the best price for canned Applaws. We add some canned puréed pumpkin as well. It is very good fiber for the little ones. Be sure the pumpkin is plain, not seasoneed.
Pet Kingdom in central San Diego has lots of these wet foods & is locally owned. Fromm, Origen and Instinct both are high quality wet foods. See notes above regarding seafood. Cats unlike dogs will “wait you out” until they get the kind they like. Like humans, they get bored, and yesterday’s favorite is ignored today. They have massively developed organs of smell, and less so taste buds. So fragrance is everything. Be wary of other scents that might be near meals. Why we don’t eat in our bathrooms, neither will they want to do so. We top meals with Fortiflora at least daily or more. It is a Probiotic. This can be acquired at Amazon and often your local vet. Your kittens have been getting wet food three times a day. Until they are weaned they eat nearly continually. Ultimately, as adults, will only need two wet meals a day. Some breeders believe raw food is essential. Some colleagues feed their cats organic calves liver, or wild boar. If you decide to try this, be cautious to ensure they get all nutrients and vitamins needed to be healthy. Also ensure it is safe from potential bacteria and pathogens. Cleanliness is critical. All dishes for food (never plastic), ought to be in dishwasher regularly.
Dry Food: Grain free. Also Fromm is grain free & great. The rabbit flavor is Yoffi’s FAV! (I can’t pronounce it). Orijen has excellent kibbles and so is their “wet” food. Instinct carries a dry food also and we recommend it. Amazon carries all. Chewy does too.
How large do Maine Coon Cats become?
Males can be as large as 25 pounds, there have been bigger. However, on average end up around 15 pounds. Females, average 12-16 pounds.
How to acclimate a Maine Coon kitten or cat to new home?
Recall kittens are just little babies. We keep them till 12 weeks at least, as will most reputable breeders. At their young age the kitten is still developing their immune system. Despite all efforts to provide socialization and interaction, travel to a new home is a major stressor for a little one. It is recommended, as hard as it is, to limit stimulus within their new home for the first day, or longer. Some breeders recommend limiting kittens to only one room for as long a week. Allow them to explore the small room with only a few people at a time, like a bathroom without places to hide. We realize it’s nearly impossible to wait. Regardless one of the first things you must do is show them is their litter box. Introduce new house-mate animals very very slowly, maybe even wait several days. The most friendly cats may find a new addition a threat to their
How Do I Activate My Account?
Recall kittens are just little babies. We keep them till 12 weeks at least, as will most reputable breeders. At their young age the kitten is still developing their immune system. Despite all efforts to provide socialization and interaction, travel to a new home is a major stressor for a little one. It is recommended, as hard as it is, to limit stimulus within their new home for the first day, or longer. Some breeders recommend limiting kittens to only one room for as long a week. Allow them to explore the small room with only a few people at a time, like a bathroom without places to hide. We realize it’s nearly impossible to wait. Regardless one of the first things you must do is show them is their litter box. Introduce new house-mate animals very very slowly, maybe even wait several days. The most friendly cats may find a new addition a threat to their reign. First impressions are a big deal to cats meeting each other for the first time. Kittens have been taught they are the center of the universe and are fearless. The current reigning king of queen of your house might have another opinion when a kitten wants to share dinner. Give the newbie their sleep area, water and some snacks and private litter box. They likely will rest after the journey, that to a kitten is HUGE deal. Allowing this rest time after all the stimulus is really helpful stress management. This “pause” in introducing to the new home is hard on the new human parents, but great for the new baby. Certainly stay with the little one and get to know one another, quietly and slowly. Carry them on walking tours of the home. Current animal residents will begin introducing themselves under door jams.
A note from us kitty mainecoon are lovingly handled from the time they are born. By the age at which they go to their new homes they are used to being picked up and held, kissed, combed and bathed. They are used to loud noises such as hair-dryers, vacuums, the snap of a large plastic trash bag being opened, the neighbors remodeling, etc. They are comfortable with children and dogs. They have been visited by 'strangers.' They are used to riding in the car, getting into a crate without a fuss and going to the vet (where they are the center of affectionate attention from all the employees - not just poked and prodded by the doctor). They even allow you to brush their teeth.
What about vaccinations for our Maine Coon Cats?
Vaccinations are mandatory. Purrcificoon kittens have had their first two sets of FVCRP shots and are due for the last at 16 weeks. A final booster is given about a year later from the 16 week vaccinations. All information about the timing and lot numbers etc of the vaccines are provided. Our vets recommend modified living vaccine. These vaccinations are required. We respect the personal relationship people have with their vets. However, we recommend NOT administering the rabies or the feline leukemia vaccine. These are not necessary for inside cats. It is expected these cats stay inside. Minimally be educated regarding risks of feline vaccination.
My kitten is biting! HELP!
Biting? Is never permitted. From early on in the life of a kitten it has to be remembered that fingers and hands are never toys. A light tap on the nose, offering other things to chew on or simply removing yourself helps extinguish the behavior. It is natural and feels good when teething. The baby teeth start coming in at three weeks. And adult teeth start around 11-13 weeks. All 30 teeth are in at 6 months. Here is useful piece from “Chewy” about kitten biting.
What about neutering and spaying?
Neutering and spaying is expected.
However, timing can differ. We always defer to local veterinarians. However we have strong opinions as well. These are based on experience, our interpretation of research and the years of wisdom of our many experts.
Females are generally spayed after 6-7 months. However, they can wait as late as one year. If they do experience their first heat prior to these dates then the spaying should occur.
Males are different. The latest research identified rapidly growing large animals like Maine Coons, actually need testosterone for the growth of the formation of the bone plates of the hips. So males can wait as late as one year. The downside is males spraying once reaching puberty. The first indicator of puberty, in a male, is their urine having a strong odor. The prediction of spraying is based on father behavior. None of the males in this lineage have ever sprayed. Thus, waiting to neuter till after puberty is recommended.
Therapy Cats for Comfort and Support What is a therapy cat?
Therapy cats have particular skills and are trained to offer comfort and support in various settings including schools, nursing homes or centres for disabled people. The best cats for the job have calm, mild demeanours and can help people emotionally and physically by reducing stress, anxiety and increasing their mobility.
Small in size, perfect to snuggle with and fairly low maintenance, cats seem specially made for relieving stress. And some of them really take on this job. Therapy cats and emotional support cats can play an important role in the recovery and comfort of many people dealing with illnesses, disabilities or for those simply looking for a cuddly companion.
As if we needed another reason to love our furry friends even more, these amazing cats can be found snuggling elderly people for a bit of extra support, playing with autistic children to offer them that much-needed friendship or even going for walks with people dealing with mobility issues or those who need exercise.
WHY ADOBT A MAINECOON
Temperament: The Maine Coon is renowned for its trainable, sociable, and intelligent nature. These agile felines are not just playful companions; they are also vocal, engaging with their owners in charming conversations.Size: Adult male Maine Coons typically weigh between 8.2 to 10 kg, while females range from 3.6 to 5.4 kg. Their impressive size adds to their majestic appearance, making them stand out as one of the largest domesticated cat breeds.Origin: Hailing from the picturesque state of Maine in the United States, the Maine Coon is not only a symbol of the region's rich history but also a testament to the beauty of American cat breeds.CFA Standards: The Maine Coon is recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and is celebrated for its distinctive features and friendly disposition.Common Nicknames: Often referred to as "Gentle Giants," Maine Coons are beloved for their affectionate nature and easygoing personality.Other Names: This remarkable breed is known by several names, including Coon Cat, Maine Cat, Maine Shag, American Longhair, American Coon Cat, and American Forest Cat, reflecting its diverse heritage and widespread popularity.If you're looking for a loving, playful, and intelligent feline companion, the Maine Coon may just be the perfect addition to your home! Explore more about these gentle giants at Kitty Mainecoon and discover why they are adored by cat lovers around the world.