Maine Coon cats are a beloved breed known for their large size, playful personalities, and beautiful coats, but before you decide to adopt one, you might be asking yourself, how much are Maine Coon cats?
Well, firstly, Maine Coon cats are not just any ordinary feline, they are a true treasure. I cover this in great detail in my guide, ‘What is a Maine Coon cat?‘ if you are interested.
Maine Coons are known as the “gentle giants” of the cat world, with their large size and friendly dog-like personality. They have a distinct wild appearance with their bushy tail, tufted ears and long, shaggy coat and are known for their intelligence, playfulness and love of water, often referred to as “the dogs of the cat world”.
The Maine Coon Cat is a very ancient breed, with roots dating back to colonial America and are the official state cat of Maine. They have a rich history and folklore, with stories of their courage and intelligence.
So before you decide to bring a Maine Coon into your home, it’s important to understand the cost associated with owning one.
- How Much Are Maine Coon Cats in 2023?
- Factors Affecting the Price Of A Maine Coon Cat
- What Are Polydactyl Maine Coon Cats?
- Pet Quality Maine Coon Cats
- Show Quality Maine Coon Cats
- Breeder Quality
- Additional Costs to Consider When Buying A Maine Coon Cat
- How To Find A Reputable Breeder?
- Questions To Ask Any Maine Coon Breeder
- Red Flags To Be Aware Of When Adopting A Maine Coon
- Conclusion
- FAQ Summary
How Much Are Maine Coon Cats in 2023?
The average cost of a Maine Coon cat can range anywhere from $600 to $2,500 (£485 to £2000), depending on various factors such as breeder reputation, location, coat colour and pattern, size, gender and age, show quality and breeder quality.
And if you live in the UK, then the Cost Of Living Crisis will definitely have an effect on Maine Coon price.
In this blog post, I’ll break down these factors in more detail to give you a better understanding of the costs associated with owning a Maine Coon cat.
By the end of this guide, you should have a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment involved in owning a Maine Coon cat and be able to make an informed decision about whether this is the right breed for you.
Factors Affecting the Price Of A Maine Coon Cat
Several factors can affect the price of a Maine Coon cat, because each one plays a role in the overall quality and value of the cat.
A breeder’s reputation, location, cat’s coat colour and pattern, size, gender, age, and the cat’s intended use (show or breeding) all contribute to the final price. Reputable breeders may charge more because they invest in genetic testing and health screenings. And cats with rare coat colours or patterns are more expensive due to their rarity.
Maine Coon cats are celebrated for their unique eye colouring, which comes in shades of gold, copper and green. Some Maine Coon cats, such as pure and partially white, can have blue, or bi-coloured eyes. Maine Coon eye colour can play a large role in determining the final price.
The Maine Coon’s size and weight, gender, and age can also play a role in determining its value. Show-quality cats also have different physical characteristics that make them stand out and are typically more expensive than pet-quality cats.
Let’s explore these various factors that affect the price of a Maine Coon in more detail.
Breeder Reputation
Firstly, taking into account the reputation of a Maine Coon breeder greatly affects the price. A breeder with a good reputation and standing within the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy will produce healthy, well-socialised kittens.
This comes down to Maine Coon breeders investing time and money to carry out health screenings and genetic testing. A strong bloodline is crucial when breeding high-standard Maine Coon cats. The price of these majestic cats reflects the standard of breeders and should come with a health guarantee.
A certified Maine Coon breeder will provide you with all the necessary documents and family tree about your desired cat. This includes a history of their parents, lineage and health. This is the perfect opportunity to ask any questions or concerns you might have in relation to your Maine Coon’s health and care. A great breeder will be knowledgeable and put your mind at ease.
Important: A less reputable Maine Coon breeder, or ‘backyard breeder’ will not do the above. (I’ll go into more on backyard breeders further on). They have a reputation for cutting corners, including not carrying out genetic testing and health screenings. Kittens are often too young when they leave their mothers and often they don’t meet breeding standards.
Choosing to purchase a Maine Coon cat from a reputable breeder will cost you more, but this guarantees a cat well-raised. Pedigree cats are typically healthier and well-socialised.
Cost Of Maine Coon Cats In Different Locations
A significant factor in determining the price of a Maine Coon cat often comes down to location. Taking into account the Cost of Living Crisis in the UK, and demand in certain areas will affect cat/kitten prices.
You might find that it’s cheaper to purchase a Maine Coon in the countryside, whereas, in the city, it’s more expensive.
The table below outlines typical Maine Coon prices based on different countries. Please be mindful that these are estimates and other variables can affect the final price. Outwith location, coat colour, pattern, gender and size of cat and age all affect Maine Coon prices.
| Country of Maine Coon Adoption | Average Price of a Maine Coon Cat |
|---|---|
| United States | $600 to $2,500 |
| Canada | $800 to $2,000 |
| United Kingdom | £800 to £2,500 |
| Australia | $1,000 to $3,500 |
| Germany | €800 to €2,500 |
Maine Coon Coat Color and Pattern
Maine Coon coat colour and pattern vary, and so this is a direct correlation to price. There are certain coat colours and patterns that are deemed rarer, and more desirable.
The “Van Maine Coon pattern” is a perfect example. A Maine Coon with this coat will have a white base with a coloured head and tail. Tabby and tortoiseshell Maine Coon patterns are also rarer and sought after more.
Maine Coons that are born with unique colours like red and cream can also command a higher price. They are not as easy to find and can sell quickly.
On the other hand, solid-coloured Maine Coons like black or white will command a lower price. They are found in most cat litters.
The table below summarises the typical price ranges of a Maine Coon cat, based on its coat colour and pattern.
| Maine Coon Coat Colour and Pattern | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Solid coloured black or white | $1000 (£800) |
| Tabby | $1,205 (£950) |
| Tortoiseshell | $1500-$2000 (£1205 – £1600) |
| Red or Cream | $1800-$2500 (£1400 – £2000) |
| Van Pattern | $2000-$3000 (£1600 – £2400) |
| Silver or Smoke | $2000-$3500 (£1600 – £2800) |
| Bi-Colour | $1,500-$2500 (£1205 – £2000) |
Although it’s an exciting time deciding on a Maine Coon cat or kitten based on their coat colour and pattern, it shouldn’t be the only factor.
Genetic Make-Up of a Maine Coon
When it comes to the genetic makeup of a Maine Coon cat, expect to pay a lot! Maine Coons from a champion bloodline are desirable to any potential buyer. They carry a great potential for breeding and showing, which increases their value significantly.
What exactly does it mean when a Maine Coon comes from a champion bloodline?
Maine Coons with a champion bloodline come from parents that have successfully achieved certain requirements. These include conformity, health and temperament. (I will cover these in detail further in this guide).
Therefore, a Maine Coon with a champion bloodline is of higher quality and will command a higher price.
Size And Weight Of A Maine Coon Cat
It’s common knowledge that Maine Coons are famous for being a large cat breed – Often called the gentle giants of the cat world. So, it’s no surprise that potential size of a Maine Coon directly affects its price. You can expect a male Maine Coon to weigh between 13 to 18 pounds. A female Maine Coon normally weighs in smaller, between 8 to 12 pounds. That is not to say that there doesn’t exist larger female Maine Coon out there!
Some breeders that anticipate a large Maine Coon at maturity may command a higher price. This, for obvious reasons can’t be guaranteed and is only an estimation based on genetics.
So whilst a larger Maine Coon is a desireable trait for potential buyers, it’s necessary to consider what this means in terms of cost. A larger Maine Coon might have health issues further down the line, including a larger appetite which means more food.
Gender Of A Maine Coon Cat
One might wonder why female Maine Coon cats are more expensive than their male counterparts. And the reason is simple. Female Maine Coon cats are considered more desireable for breedings reasons, and are therefore valuable to any breeder.
Female Maine Coon cats are usually smaller in size and have a more docile personality. If you’d like to read more on Maine Coon personalities, then you’re in luck as I have the perfect guide for you.
Age Of A Maine Coon Cat
It’s no surprise that Maine Coon kittens are generally more expensive than seniors. Kittens come with less or no health issues, and an expected longer lifespan. Kittens are also deemed cute, and therefore are more adoptable.
You can expect Maine Coon kittens to range from $1000 to $3000 (£800 to £2400) depending on the color, pattern, and breeding quality. Adult and senior cats are less expensive depending on their age and condition of health. But regardless of their maturity, they are great companions and have a lot of love to give.
An adult/senior Maine Coon generally costs around $500 and $1500 (£400-£1200).
What Are Polydactyl Maine Coon Cats?
A Polydactyl Maine Coon has extra toes caused by a genetic mutation. Despite this being considered a rare trait, it’s not recognised by some cat breeding organisations. They are considered unique amongst breeders, and was once deemed perfectly normal in the past.
Contrary to common belief, a Polydactyl Maine Coon is not inbred, as it is classed as a dominant trait. In fact, it’s typical for a Non-Polydactyl Maine Coon to have a Polydactyl family member when looking at their pedigree.
If you are looking to adopt a Polydactyl Maine Coon, exerting caution with breeders that might falsely claim their cat is “pedigree”. Ask for documentation and proof of pedigree before purchasing.
Many non-polydactyl Maine Coons have a polydactyl member of their genetic lines in their pedigrees, and breeding these polydactyl cats is still fully accepted and recognized as purebred worldwide.
Pet Quality Maine Coon Cats
Pet quality is a term used to describe Maine Coon cats that may not meet the breed standard for conformation or color, but still make great companion animals.
These cats are often sold at a lower price than show-quality cats. Pet quality cats may have a small physical imperfection, such as a slightly crooked tail, or a coat color that does not conform to the breed standard. They might also have a temperament that is not suitable for showing or breeding.
Pet quality Maine Coon cats usually range from $500 to $1000 depending on their age, color, and pattern. For example, a pet quality black Maine Coon may be less expensive than a pet quality red Maine Coon.
It’s important to note that pet quality does not mean that the cat is of lower quality or less healthy. Pet quality cats can make great companions and have the same loving and playful personalities as show-quality cats. They are also just as capable of providing love, companionship, and entertainment to their owners as show-quality cats.
When choosing a Maine Coon cat, whether it’s a pet quality or show quality, you should also consider the cat’s overall health, personality, and temperament.
Show Quality Maine Coon Cats
Show quality refers to Maine Coon cats that meet the breed standard for conformation, color, and pattern. These cats are often considered more valuable as they can be used for breeding or showing. Show quality cats are expected to have a specific set of characteristics like a large size, long fur, and a specific coat color and pattern.
Show quality Maine Coon cats usually range from $1000 to $5000 depending on their age, color, pattern, and breeding quality. For example, a show-quality Maine Coon kitten from a champion bloodline may command a higher price than a show-quality Maine Coon kitten from an unknown bloodline.
The following list is typical of what is expected in a Maine Coon of show quality.
Conformation
Show quality Maine Coon cats should have a well-proportioned body, with a large size, long fur, and a rectangular shape. They should have a strong jaw and chin, large ears with tufts, and a long, bushy tail.
Coat Colour and Pattern
Show quality Maine Coon cats should have a specific coat colour and pattern that conforms to the breed standard. Acceptable coat colours include black, red, silver, and smoke. Acceptable coat patterns include solid, tabby, and tortoiseshell.
Health
Show quality Maine Coon cats should have good overall health, with no visible signs of illness or disease. They should also have a good temperament, and be friendly and sociable.
Breeding Quality
Show quality Maine Coon cats should have good breeding potential, with a strong genetic history of producing kittens that conform to the breed standard. They should also be free of any genetic disorders.
Temperament
Show quality Maine Coon cats should have a good temperament, they should be friendly, sociable and easy to handle.
Important note: Show quality does not necessarily guarantee that a cat is of higher quality or health. Show quality cats should also be evaluated for their health, temperament and overall well-being.
Additionally, not all show-quality cats are suitable for breeding or showing, it’s also important to consider the cat’s personality and temperament when choosing a Maine Coon cat.
Breeder Quality
The quality of the breeder can also affect the price of a Maine Coon cat. Breeder quality refers to the level of care and attention that the breeder gives to their cats and the breeding program. A reputable breeder who is dedicated to producing healthy, well-tempered cats that conform to the breed standard will generally charge more for their cats than a less reputable breeder.
Reputable breeders invest a lot of time and money into their breeding program, and they are selective in choosing cats to breed. They also invest in genetics testing, and veterinary care and provide proper socialization for the cats. They also provide a health guarantee for their cats. All these factors contribute to the higher price of the cats from a reputable breeder.
On the other hand, less reputable breeders may not invest as much time or money into their breeding program, and may not be as selective in choosing cats to breed. They may not provide as much care and attention to their cats, and as a result, their cats may not be as healthy or well-tempered. They may also not provide a health guarantee.
It’s important to research the breeder and their breeding practices before purchasing a Maine Coon cat. A reputable breeder should be open and transparent about their breeding program, and should be willing to provide information about the cat’s health, temperament, and genetic history.
What Are Backyard Breeders?
Backyard breeders are individuals who breed cats without proper knowledge, experience or dedication to the breed. They do not have the same standards as reputable breeders and may not invest in genetics testing, veterinary care, or proper socialization for the cats.
They do not have a proper breeding program and are not selective in choosing cats to breed. They may not be familiar with the breed standard or the genetic health issues of the breed, and the cats they breed may not conform to the breed standard.
When looking to adopt a Maine Coon, there are several red flags to look out for when dealing with backyard breeders:
- The breeder does not ask you any questions about your lifestyle or home environment.
- The breeder does not provide any information about the cat’s health, genetic history or lineage.
- The breeder does not provide a health guarantee for the cat.
- The breeder does not have any references or does not provide any information about their breeding program.
- The breeder is selling cats at a significantly lower price than other breeders, which may indicate that they are not investing in the cat’s care and well-being.
- The breeder is selling cats at a very young age, before they are fully weaned or vaccinated.
- The breeder is not willing to provide any information about the cat’s personality or behavior.
Additional Costs to Consider When Buying A Maine Coon Cat
When considering adopting a Maine Coon cat, it’s important to not only consider the cost of the cat itself, but also the additional costs that come with owning a cat. Some of the additional costs to consider include initial veterinary expenses, ongoing care costs, and grooming costs. These costs can add up quickly and should be taken into account when budgeting for a new pet. It’s important to have an understanding of these costs and be prepared to financially support your new companion.
Initial Veterinary Expenses
Initial veterinary expenses are an important factor to consider when adopting a Maine Coon cat. These expenses include the initial health check-up, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any other necessary medical treatments.
Here are a few examples of the initial veterinary expenses you may encounter when adopting a Maine Coon cat:
- Initial health check-up: This is a general examination by a veterinarian to assess the cat’s overall health. This typically costs around $50 to $100.
- Vaccinations: This is a series of shots that protect the cat from various diseases. The cost of vaccinations varies depending on the area but generally cost around $50 to $200.
- Spaying or neutering: This is a surgical procedure that prevents the cat from reproducing. The cost of spaying or neutering varies depending on the area but generally cost around $150 to $400.
- Any other necessary medical treatments: This may include treatments for fleas and ticks, deworming, and treating any other medical issues that the cat may have. The cost of this varies depending on the treatment but can range from $50 to $300.
It’s important to keep in mind that these costs are just estimates and may vary depending on the area, the veterinarian, and the specific needs of the cat. Additionally, these are one-time costs and should not be considered as ongoing costs.
On-Going Care Costs Of A Maine Coon
Ongoing care costs are an important factor to consider when adopting a Maine Coon cat. These costs include regular veterinary check-ups, food, litter, and other necessities. These costs can add up quickly and should be taken into account when budgeting for a new pet.
Here are a few examples of the ongoing care costs you may encounter when adopting a Maine Coon cat:
- Food: The cost of food for a Maine Coon cat can vary depending on the brand and type of food, but it can range from $20 to $50 per month.
- Litter: The cost of litter can vary depending on the brand and type, but it can range from $10 to $20 per month.
- Annual veterinary check-up: A yearly check-up including vaccinations, blood test and health check-up can cost around $200 to $300
- Flea and tick prevention: Monthly or bi-monthly flea and tick prevention treatment can cost around $50 to $100 per year
- Grooming: Regular grooming to keep the coat of a Maine Coon cat can cost around $50 to $100 per month.
It’s important to keep in mind that these costs are just estimates and may vary depending on the area, the veterinarian, and the specific needs of the cat. Additionally, these are ongoing costs and should be considered as a part of your overall budget when adopting a Maine Coon cat.
Grooming Costs Of A Maine Coon Cat
Grooming costs are an important factor to consider when adopting a Maine Coon cat. These costs include regular grooming, such as brushing and trimming, as well as occasional grooming such as bathing and hair clipping.
Maine Coon cats have a long and thick coat that requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition.
Here are a few examples of the grooming costs you may encounter when adopting a Maine Coon cat:
- Brush and comb: Maine Coon cats have long and thick coat that requires regular brushing and combing to remove tangles and mats. This can cost around $10 to $20 per month.
- Haircut: Regular haircuts to keep the coat of a Maine Coon cat can cost around $50 to $100 per month
- Nail trim: Regular nail trimming to keep the claws of a Maine Coon cat can cost around $10 to $15 per month
- Ear cleaning: Regular ear cleaning to remove wax and debris can cost around $10 to $15 per month
- Bath: Occasional baths can be necessary to keep the coat of a Maine Coon cat can cost around $50 to $100
It’s important to keep in mind that these costs are just estimates and may vary depending on the area, the groomer, and the specific needs of the cat. Additionally, these are ongoing costs and should be considered as a part of your overall budget when adopting a Maine Coon cat.
How To Find A Reputable Breeder?
Finding a reputable Maine Coon breeder is crucial to ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-tempered cat that conforms to the breed standard. There are several ways to find a reputable breeder, including researching online, asking for recommendations from veterinarians or other Maine Coon owners, and visiting cat shows.
Here are a few examples of how to find a reputable Maine Coon breeder:
- Research online: Look for Maine Coon breeders on websites such as the Cat Fanciers Association or the International Cat Association, both reputable organizations that have strict breeding standards.
- Ask for recommendations: Ask your veterinarian or other Maine Coon owners for recommendations on reputable breeders.
- Visit cat shows: Visit cat shows to meet breeders and see their cats. This can give you an idea of the quality of the breeding program and the cats produced by the breeder.
When visiting a breeder, it’s important to ask questions about their breeding program, their cats’ health, and their cats’ temperament. A reputable breeder should be able to provide information about the cat’s health, genetic history and lineage, and should provide a health guarantee for the cat. A reputable breeder should also be open and transparent about their breeding program and should be willing to provide references.
It’s also important to visit the breeding facilities and see how the cats are raised, how they are socialized and how they live. Observing the cats’ behavior and how they interact with the breeder and other cats can also give you an idea of their temperament.
Questions To Ask Any Maine Coon Breeder
When visiting a Maine Coon breeder, it’s important to ask several questions to ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-tempered cat that conforms to the breed standard. Here are some examples of important questions to ask a Maine Coon breeder:
- Can you tell me about the cats’ health and genetic history?
- Do you provide a health guarantee for the cat?
- Can you provide references from previous buyers?
- Can you tell me about your breeding program and what steps you take to ensure the health and well-being of your cats?
- Are the cats socialized and exposed to different environments?
- Can I see the parents of the cat I am interested in?
- What do you recommend for diet, exercise and grooming for this breed?
- Are the cats up to date with vaccinations, deworming and flea/tick treatments?
- Are the cats spayed or neutered?
Asking these questions can give you an idea of the quality of the breeding program and the cats produced by the breeder. A reputable breeder should be able to provide information about the cat’s health, genetic history and lineage, and should provide a health guarantee for the cat. They should also be open and transparent about their breeding program and should be willing to provide references.
Red Flags To Be Aware Of When Adopting A Maine Coon
When adopting a Maine Coon, it’s important to be aware of red flags or warning signs that may indicate a less-than-reputable breeder or unhealthy cat. Here are some examples of red flags or warning signs to look out for:
- Breeder is unwilling to provide references or answer your questions.
- Cats are kept in unsanitary or overcrowded conditions.
- Breeder seems to have multiple litters available at all times or have too many cats.
- Cats appear to be sick or unwell.
- Breeder is unwilling to provide a health guarantee or information about the cat’s health and genetic history.
- Breeder is unwilling to let you see where the cats are kept or meet the parents of the cat.
- Breeder is unwilling to answer questions about diet, exercise, and grooming for this breed.
- Breeder is unwilling to provide proof of vaccinations, deworming and flea/tick treatments.
- Breeder is unwilling to provide proof of spay/neuter of the cat.
It’s important to trust your instincts when visiting a breeder and to walk away if you have any doubts or concerns. A reputable breeder should be open and transparent about their breeding program, provide references and be willing to answer your questions. Avoid buying a cat from a breeder who cannot meet these basic requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, Maine Coon cats are a large and popular breed that can make loving and loyal pets. However, their price can vary depending on a number of factors such as coat color and pattern, size and weight, gender, age, and breeding quality.
On average, the price of a Maine Coon cat can range from $500 to $2000, but it can be higher for show quality cats or cats with rare coat patterns.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the ongoing costs of owning a Maine Coon cat such as veterinary expenses, grooming, and food. These costs can range anywhere from $200 to $1000 per year.
When adopting a Maine Coon cat, it’s important to research and find a reputable breeder, be aware of red flags and warning signs, and budget accordingly to ensure that you can provide the best care for your new pet.
FAQ Summary
The price of a Maine Coon cat can range from $500 to $2000, but it can be higher for show quality cats or cats with rare coat patterns.
Ongoing costs include veterinary expenses, food, litter, and grooming. These costs can range anywhere from $200 to $1000 per year.
Research online, ask for recommendations from veterinarians or other Maine Coon owners, and visit cat shows. Ask questions about their breeding program, their cats’ health, and their cats’ temperament.
Be aware of red flags or warning signs that may indicate a less-than-reputable breeder or unhealthy cat, such as cats kept in unsanitary or overcrowded conditions, breeder is unwilling to provide references or answer your questions, cats appear to be sick or unwell.
