Maine Coons are stunning, rugged cats – well-loved for their fluffy coats, big personalities, and larger-than-life size. They are intelligent and playful and make wonderful pets. But after a little research, you are probably asking yourself “Why Are Maine Coons SO EXPENSIVE!”.
The answer largely lies in the cost of quality breeding. Maine Coon cats are a highly sought-after breed for good reason, and breeding a healthy, well-tempered Maine Coon takes time, effort, and significant financial investment from the breeder.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the price of a Maine Coon cat and delve into the costs associated with owning one of these magnificent creatures.
Whether you are a seasoned Maine Coon owner or just considering adding this regal breed of cat to your family, read on to understand the reasons for the very high price tag.
Ok, How Much Does A Maine Coon Cost?
The cost of a Maine Coon cat can vary greatly, depending on several factors.
According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, the average price for a Maine Coon kitten is around $1000 (but that seems LOW), actual prices are more like $2000 or $3000. Show-quality Maine Coons can sell for even higher, with some breeders asking for up to $5000 or more!
Location Matters
The price tag of a Maine Coon kitty can fluctuate depending on your location. If you’re in the city, brace yourself for higher prices due to the higher cost of living in urban centers.
However, if you’re in a rural area, you might be able to snag a more affordable kitten. The cost of your Maine Coon might also depend on the breeder you select, and we’ll get into that later.
Why Are Maine Coons In Such High Demand?
Historic Cats
Maine Coon cats are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, with a history dating back to our early colonial days.
Incredible Looks
Maine Coons stand out amongst other cat breeds because of their incredible looks. Their long and luscious coats, tufted ears, and large size (with males weighing up to 25 pounds and females weighing up to 18 pounds!) make them a sight to behold.
It’s hard not to take notice of these feline wonders. Their distinctive looks set them apart from other breeds and are a major reason why they are such a coveted cat.
Fabulous Personality
The breed is known for being affectionate, gentle, and friendly with both human and animal friends. They play well with others, basically.
Long Life-Span
On top of all this, they also have a longer lifespan compared to other cats, with some living for over 15 years. Having such a gorgeous furry friend for a longer time is something that every pet lover wants!
Good Breeding Is Important
It’s all too common to hear people say that all cats are alike and that it’s pointless to pay extra for a purebred one. They might argue that all cats are equally lovable and that paying top dollar for a purebred feline is unreasonable.
However, pedigree Maine Coons aren’t just run-of-the-mill kitties. They’re the product of many generations of considered selective breeding for distinct traits and characteristics: their large size, long hair, and friendly personalities make them a special, unique, and in-demand breed of cat.
Reputable Breeders Spend A Lot On Their Cats
Pedigree cats are bred for health and temperament. Reputable breeders conduct genetic testing to ensure their cats do not carry any hereditary diseases, and they carefully select breeding pairs to produce kittens with desirable temperaments.
This level of care and attention results in cats that are not only gorgeous but also healthy and well-adjusted.
Do Your Homework Before Selecting A Breeder
When it comes to choosing a breeder for your Maine Coon, it’s important to do your research. Look for breeders who have a strong reputation for producing healthy, high-quality cats.
You can look for breeders who are certified by organizations such as the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), as this can be a sign of their commitment to breeding healthy, high-quality cats.
It’s important to keep in mind that shelling out some extra cash for a well-bred Maine Coon with a solid lineage can pay off in the long run, particularly if you’re planning on using them for breeding.
Cats with a strong family tree are more likely to have the looks and personality traits you’re after and may also avoid some of the possible health problems associated with the breed.
Plus, these good genes not only make for a better furry friend but will also be passed down to future generations if you decide to expand your furry family.
Beware of Genetic Disorders
If you’re on the lookout for a Maine Coon kitten, all good breeders have genetically tested their breeding cats and provide health guarantees for their kittens. This can ensure that your feline friend is healthy and doesn’t have any genetic disorders.
These services bump up the cost of your Maine Coon. So, when picking a breeder, weigh the value of these services.
While they may seem like an added expense, they could end up saving you a ton of money by avoiding pricey medical issues in the future.
Reputable Maine Coon breeders spend so much money on vet bills, genetic testing, cat food, etc, that even when they charge thousands of dollars for a kitten, they are usually only breaking even financially.
Good Maine Coon breeders don’t make much of a profit (if any at all). The thousands of dollars you pay for a kitten – pays for all of this testing and vet bills.
You might think Maine Coon breeders are making a fortune, but they are in fact serious hobbyists who love Maine Coon cats and want to advance the breed (even when they charge you $3000).
They Still Seem Expensive…?
In addition to the kitty’s pedigree, there are a bunch of other things that can affect how much you’ll pay for a Maine Coon.
Looks Matter
When it comes to Maine Coon cats, their looks really matter! The price of a Maine Coon can be influenced by their coat and eye color. If a cat has an unusual coat pattern or color like silver tabby or smoke, they’re considered super special and worth more money.
And if they have bright and beautiful eyes like green or gold, they might be even pricier.
So, if you’re looking to buy a Maine Coon, keep in mind that their gorgeous looks can come with a higher price tag.
Personality and Temperament
When it comes to Maine Coon cats, it’s not just their looks that determine their value. Their personality and demeanor can also affect the price tag.
If a Maine Coon is bred to be loving, playful, and sociable by its breeder, it might be considered more desirable and therefore more expensive than cats not specifically bred for these traits.
Breeder Reputation And Experience
Breeder reputation and experience will also impact the price of a Maine Coon. Reputable breeders who have a history of producing high-quality cats will charge more for their kittens.
Breeders who are certified by organizations such as the CFA or TICA may be able to charge more for their cats.
Award-winning breeders whose breeding cats have won best-in-show titles can ask for heftier prices. Kittens from these breeders are in such high demand that all you can do is add your name to a long wait-list.
Neutering, Spaying And Health Guarantees
If the cat has already had the snip or spay, it might be pricier because of the surgery costs. Furthermore, if the cat comes with a health guarantee or has had genetic testing, it might be a bit more expensive because these things add value.
But don’t worry, with a little research, you can find the perfect Maine Coon cat that fits your budget and lifestyle.
What About The Ongoing Costs?
While the initial cost of a Maine Coon cat can be high, it’s important to also consider the ongoing costs associated with owning one.
These costs can include food, grooming, insurance, and veterinary care, as you’d expect for the responsible care of any furry friend!
Big Appetites
Maine Coons are known for being big eaters, so it’s important to budget for high-quality food, and a lot of it.
Grooming
Maine Coons require regular grooming to keep their thick coats in good condition. This can include regular brushing and occasional trips to a professional groomer, but there is plenty of online material and tutorial videos to help you take care of your Main Coon, which minimizes the need for expensive grooming services.
Vet Bills
Veterinary care is another important expense to consider. Maine Coons are generally healthy cats, but they may be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and heart disease.
Regular check-ups and preventative care can help catch any issues early and prevent them from becoming more serious and expensive.
Pet Insurance
The cost of pet insurance may make your head spin, but it’s an important point to consider that your premiums are worth it.
This ensures that should a serious health situation occur, the cost will be covered (to the extent of your policy) and you won’t have to make difficult decisions between high medical bills versus your cat’s health and wellbeing.
Consider It An Investment
The main thing to remember here is that investing in a well-bred cat, in the beginning, will minimize the chance of health problems and associated costs in the future.
Maine Coons… They’re Worth It
Maine Coon cats are pricey, but they’re worth every cent.
The fancy lineage, attractive physical features, and high demand are all factors that contribute to their cost. If you’re willing to make the investment, a Maine Coon cat with a solid pedigree and health guarantee will pay off in the long run.
Don’t forget about the ongoing expenses, like chow, grooming, and vet bills.
By planning ahead, doing the research, and budgeting for these expenses, you’ll make sure your cat gets the best possible care so you can enjoy many years of companionship with your regal fur baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Maine Coon Cats So Expensive?
Maine Coon cats are expensive due to quality breeding, unique characteristics, and the breeder’s reputation. Factors such as location and specific physical features also influence the price. Reputable breeders invest heavily in health and temperament, often only breaking even.
What Are the Ongoing Costs of Owning a Maine Coon Cat?
Owning a Maine Coon involves ongoing expenses like high-quality food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Investing in a well-bred cat initially can minimize future health problems and costs.
How Can I Ensure I’m Choosing a Reputable Breeder for a Maine Coon Cat?
Selecting a reputable breeder involves thorough research, looking for strong reputations, certifications, health guarantees, and genetic testing. Investing in a well-bred Maine Coon from a reputable source ensures better health and satisfaction in the long run.