About Us
WHO WE ARE
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Dark Moon is SACC registered Maine Coon cattery, run by a husband and wife team.
We are situated in the seaside suburb of Muizenberg on the outskirts of Cape Town, South Africa. OUR PRIORITY is to breed healthy, well-socialized Maine Coons that adhere to the breed standard. OUR GOAL goes beyond breeding; it's a commitment to play a part in preserving and improving this wonderful breed. We believe in contributing actively to its well-being and standards. This involves ongoing education, collaboration with other enthusiasts, and participating in initiatives that support the breed's health and characteristics. It's not just a hobby; it's a responsibility driven by passion to ensure the breed's legacy continues positively for future generations. |
By consistently expanding our understanding of feline breeding practices and genetics, we empower ourselves to make well-informed decisions that contribute to the overall health, well-being, and genetic soundness of our feline companions. Our engagement in cat exhibitions not only grants us valuable insights into show trends and standards but also provides a platform to showcase the distinctive qualities of our breeding program to a broader audience. This comprehensive approach highlights our dedication to continual improvement and the high standards that define our commitment to feline welfare and responsible breeding practices.
Our cats hold a special place in our home, living harmoniously in a loving and stress-free environment as a integral part of our family. Our garden, a secure haven, offers them the extra space to roam, climb trees, roll in the grass, and engage in playful pursuits like chasing butterflies. To ensure each of our feline family members don't get bored, we rotate the spaces between our boys and girls. This means they take turns exploring the house, catio, and garden. This routine ensures they receive ample exercise and mental stimulation, keeping them content and fulfilled.
The journey for our kittens begins in one of our bedrooms, surrounded by love, cuddles, and attention from their earliest days. Around the age of 5 weeks, they 'graduate' to the Kitten Playroom, equipped with lots of toys, kitten-friendly gyms and scratch posts. Once our kittens receive their first vaccinations, they gain access to the entire house. They explore the catio, meet our other cats, mingle with dogs, and get to know extended family members and friends. This deliberate exposure to various sounds and playmates, both big and small, in our bustling family environment ensures they quickly adapt and seamlessly settle into their new homes.
The journey for our kittens begins in one of our bedrooms, surrounded by love, cuddles, and attention from their earliest days. Around the age of 5 weeks, they 'graduate' to the Kitten Playroom, equipped with lots of toys, kitten-friendly gyms and scratch posts. Once our kittens receive their first vaccinations, they gain access to the entire house. They explore the catio, meet our other cats, mingle with dogs, and get to know extended family members and friends. This deliberate exposure to various sounds and playmates, both big and small, in our bustling family environment ensures they quickly adapt and seamlessly settle into their new homes.
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ABOUT THE MAINE COON BREED
- Origins: The Maine Coon is one of the oldest and largest domestic cat breeds. Its origins are somewhat mysterious, but it's believed to have originated in North America, particularly in the state of Maine.
- Physical Characteristics: Maine Coons are known for their large size, tufted ears, bushy tails, and tufted paws. They have a semi-longhair coat that is water-resistant and can come in a variety of colors and patterns.
- Personality: Maine Coons are often described as friendly, sociable, and intelligent. They are known for forming strong bonds with their human families and can get along well with children and other pets.
- Adaptability: These cats are adaptable to various living situations, making them suitable for both apartment living and homes with more space. Their tufted ears and long, thick fur help them adapt to colder climates.
- Communication: Maine Coons are known for their distinctive chirps, trills, and "chirrup" sounds. They are quite vocal and may engage in conversation with their owners.
- Maintenance: Due to their semi-longhair coat, Maine Coons require regular grooming to prevent matting. Despite their size, they are generally good self-groomers and enjoy the attention during grooming sessions.
- Intelligence: Maine Coons are considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds. They can be trained to perform tricks and may even enjoy interactive toys that stimulate their minds.
- Health: Overall, Maine Coons are a healthy breed. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions and health issues.
- Growth Rate: Maine Coons have a slow growth rate, and they may not reach their full size until they are three to five years old. Males are generally larger than females.
- Popularity: The Maine Coon is one of the most popular cat breeds globally and is recognized by cat registries worldwide.
- Lifespan: On average, Maine Coon cats have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. With proper care, some may even live beyond this range.
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MAINE COON HEALTH
Maine Coon cats are generally considered a healthy breed. However, like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. While we make every effort to ensure the good health of our kittens by testing and screening our cats for breed-specific genetic diseases, it's important to note that this doesn't guarantee immunity from these conditions. Non-genetic factors such as age, gender, weight or environmental influences (diet, injuries, activity level etc.) can also contribute to overall health problems in Maine Coons.
Ensuring the health and well-being of Maine Coon cats requires proactive measures from owners. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced and appropriate diet, proper grooming, and a safe, stimulating environment are essential elements of responsible care. To further safeguard your feline companion, it is strongly recommended to invest in pet health insurance. This coverage proves invaluable in handling unforeseen veterinary expenses or emergencies, ensuring that your beloved pet receives optimal care without straining your budget.
Maine Coon cats are generally considered a healthy breed. However, like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. While we make every effort to ensure the good health of our kittens by testing and screening our cats for breed-specific genetic diseases, it's important to note that this doesn't guarantee immunity from these conditions. Non-genetic factors such as age, gender, weight or environmental influences (diet, injuries, activity level etc.) can also contribute to overall health problems in Maine Coons.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a common heart condition in cats, including Maine Coons. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor heart health, especially as they age. Responsible breeding practices, including genetic testing, can help minimize the risk.
- Hip Dysplasia (HD): Given that Maine Coons are among the largest domestic cat breeds, they can be susceptible to joint issues, including hip dysplasia. Responsible breeding practices, coupled with regular veterinary care, are essential for managing and addressing this condition.
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): This is a genetic disorder that affects the spinal cord's motor neurons. Responsible breeding practices, including genetic testing, can help minimize the risk.
- Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKDef ): This is an inherited condition caused by a mutation in the PKLR gene, leading to the insufficient production of an enzyme called pyruvate kinase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the energy metabolism of red blood cells. Responsible breeding practices, including genetic testing, help to minimize the risk.
- Spinal Osteoarthritis: Larger cats like Maine Coons may be prone to arthritis, especially in the spine. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and weight management can help reduce the risk.
- Obesity: Maine Coons, like many large breeds, can be prone to obesity. Maintaining a balanced diet and providing regular opportunities for exercise are essential for weight management.
- Dental Issues: Maine Coons can be prone to dental problems. Regular dental care, including teeth brushing and appropriate chew toys, can help prevent issues.
- Renal (Kidney) Issues: As with many cat breeds, Maine Coons can be susceptible to kidney issues, particularly as they age. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can support kidney health.
Ensuring the health and well-being of Maine Coon cats requires proactive measures from owners. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced and appropriate diet, proper grooming, and a safe, stimulating environment are essential elements of responsible care. To further safeguard your feline companion, it is strongly recommended to invest in pet health insurance. This coverage proves invaluable in handling unforeseen veterinary expenses or emergencies, ensuring that your beloved pet receives optimal care without straining your budget.
WHAT WE FEED
Maine Coons take up to 4 years to reach maturity and a proper nutrition is the key to ensuring a happy and healthy cat.
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet requires nutrients found only in animal flesh. While they may ingest small amounts of plant matter, their physiology is not equipped to digest it efficiently. As predators, their natural diet consist of birds, rodents and even small rabbits. Unfortunately, many commercial diets are loaded with carbohydrates, leading not only to food allergies or digestive issues, but also to excessive weight. This in turn can contribute to medical conditions such as diabetes, hip dysplasia or heart issues.
Our cats and kittens are fed exclusively with nutritionally balanced raw diet.
Benefits of feeding balanced raw diet:
It's crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure your meals are well-balanced, or alternatively, purchase from reputable
and DAFF registered pre-made raw food suppliers.
Maine Coons take up to 4 years to reach maturity and a proper nutrition is the key to ensuring a happy and healthy cat.
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet requires nutrients found only in animal flesh. While they may ingest small amounts of plant matter, their physiology is not equipped to digest it efficiently. As predators, their natural diet consist of birds, rodents and even small rabbits. Unfortunately, many commercial diets are loaded with carbohydrates, leading not only to food allergies or digestive issues, but also to excessive weight. This in turn can contribute to medical conditions such as diabetes, hip dysplasia or heart issues.
Our cats and kittens are fed exclusively with nutritionally balanced raw diet.
Benefits of feeding balanced raw diet:
- Nutrient Intake: Raw diets include a variety of meats, bones, and organs, providing a range of essential nutrients that mimic a cat's natural diet in the wild.
- Improved Dental Health: Chewing on raw meat and soft meaty bones helps to keep a cat's teeth clean and healthy, reducing the risk of dental issues.
- Reduced Fillers and Additives: Raw diets typically avoid fillers and artificial additives commonly found in commercial cat foods. This is beneficial for cats with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Healthy Skin and Coat: The balanced nutritional profile of a raw diet contributes to healthier skin and a shinier coat for your Maine Coon.
- Weight Management: Feeding a raw diet helps in weight management, preventing obesity or aiding weight loss.
- Digestive Health: Cats are obligate carnivores and raw diets align with their biological need for meat. This contributes to better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Increased Hydration: Raw diets have a higher moisture content, contributing to increased hydration, which is essential for kidney health.
It's crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure your meals are well-balanced, or alternatively, purchase from reputable
and DAFF registered pre-made raw food suppliers.
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Our research sources:
Cat Nutrition
Dr Lisa A Pierson
Dr Karen Becker
Cats Completely Raw And Proud
We Feed Raw S.A.
LittleAngels Pet Nutrition
Cat Nutrition
Dr Lisa A Pierson
Dr Karen Becker
Cats Completely Raw And Proud
We Feed Raw S.A.
LittleAngels Pet Nutrition
FOLLOW US
Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram , where we regularly share kitten updates, news or fun facts from our daily life with our Maine Coons.
Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram , where we regularly share kitten updates, news or fun facts from our daily life with our Maine Coons.
REGISTRATION BODIES
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We are registered with The Southern Africa Cat Council (SACC) since 2015 and abide by SACC Code of Good Practice.
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We are registered with World Cat Federation (WCF) since 2016.
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