Do you have kittens available?
Visit our Current Litters tab to check the status of our kittens as well as the estimate date for opening of applications.
These are different statuses you may see referenced during the adoption process:
EVALUATION: The kitten is under breeder's observation and NOT available at this time.
AVAILABLE: Adoption applications are being accepted for the kitten.
OPTION: The kitten is on hold but deposit haven't been paid. The kitten might become available at a later stage.
RESERVED: Contract was signed and reservation deposit was paid. It is unlikely the kitten will become available.
SOLD: Final payment was received. The kitten is now spoken for.
STAYS: The kitten will stay with us for future showing and/or breeding plans.
Please note that unless we have kittens available, the 'Kitten Adoption Application' tab on our website will remain hidden, and we may be slow to respond to enquiries and application pre-approval. We appreciate your patience and understanding!
These are different statuses you may see referenced during the adoption process:
EVALUATION: The kitten is under breeder's observation and NOT available at this time.
AVAILABLE: Adoption applications are being accepted for the kitten.
OPTION: The kitten is on hold but deposit haven't been paid. The kitten might become available at a later stage.
RESERVED: Contract was signed and reservation deposit was paid. It is unlikely the kitten will become available.
SOLD: Final payment was received. The kitten is now spoken for.
STAYS: The kitten will stay with us for future showing and/or breeding plans.
Please note that unless we have kittens available, the 'Kitten Adoption Application' tab on our website will remain hidden, and we may be slow to respond to enquiries and application pre-approval. We appreciate your patience and understanding!
How can I reserve a kitten?
Kitten Reservation Process
1. No Waiting List
We do not maintain a waiting list. It is up to YOU to apply on the specified date and time announced for the litter of interest. To reserve a kitten, the Kitten Adoption Application must be submitted and approved before reservation.
2. Requesting the Application Form
You can request the application form by emailing us at [email protected]. When requesting the form, please include a brief introduction with:
• Basic details about your home environment, family, and any existing pets.
3. Reservation Dates
Reservations typically open at 12:00 noon when kittens are around 10 - 12 weeks of age. The exact date will be announced 1-2 weeks in advance. Pre-approved homes will receive priority before kitten reservations open to new applications or enquiries.
4. Placement Priority
Kittens are placed in the following order of priority:
1. Our breeding program.
2. Approved breed/show homes.
3. Existing clients.
4. Pre-approved applicants.
5. New applications and enquiries.
5. Application Pre-Approval
Applications may be submitted at any time. Please be patient if we are not close to a reservation date, as responses may take longer. To be considered for kitten reservation day, your application must be submitted and approved prior to the reservation day. Home-check will be required as a part of the approval process to ensure your property is secure and prevents free-roaming beyond its border.
Once approved, you will receive a confirmation, and your name will be added to our pre-approved file. Pre-approved applicants will receive priority consideration. Stay connected with us for updates and important announcements.
6. Reservation Day
Reservations open at 12:00 noon on the specified date. Please note:
• Being pre-approved does not automatically include you in reservation day.
• You must contact us at 12:00 noon with your top picks listed in order of preference.
• Reservations are handled on a first-come, first-approved basis.
You must remain available to respond to our messages promptly throughout the day. We do not send individual reminders about reservation day, so keep track of the announcement on our Facebook page, WhatsApp group or website for updates.
7. When Contacting Us on Reservation Day
In your message or email, please include:
• The kittens you are interested in (list 1-3 choices in order of preference).
• What you are looking for in a Maine Coon kitten.
• Details about your family, home environment, other pets (including their personalities), and the ages of your children.
8. Placement Considerations
Kitten placement is based on personality and lifestyle fit rather than gender or colour. While we aim to accommodate your preferences, our focus is on how well a kitten will adapt to your home. For example:
• A shy kitten will not be placed in a busy household with multiple pets or very young children.
• A high-energy kitten will not be placed in a home seeking a lap cat or lacking a suitable playmate.
Ultimately, a well-matched kitten brings greater happiness to both the family and the cat.
9. Virtual Viewing Only
We do not allow in-home kitten viewings. Approved applicants may request:
• Videos of kittens, or
• Video calls closer to reservation day.
These will only be arranged after application approval and during the week leading up to reservation day, as much can change over time.
NOTE: Dark Moon reserves the right to refuse any person at any point in the adoption process up to and including pick up day. If final payment has been paid in advance, it will be reimbursed accordingly.
1. No Waiting List
We do not maintain a waiting list. It is up to YOU to apply on the specified date and time announced for the litter of interest. To reserve a kitten, the Kitten Adoption Application must be submitted and approved before reservation.
2. Requesting the Application Form
You can request the application form by emailing us at [email protected]. When requesting the form, please include a brief introduction with:
• Basic details about your home environment, family, and any existing pets.
3. Reservation Dates
Reservations typically open at 12:00 noon when kittens are around 10 - 12 weeks of age. The exact date will be announced 1-2 weeks in advance. Pre-approved homes will receive priority before kitten reservations open to new applications or enquiries.
4. Placement Priority
Kittens are placed in the following order of priority:
1. Our breeding program.
2. Approved breed/show homes.
3. Existing clients.
4. Pre-approved applicants.
5. New applications and enquiries.
5. Application Pre-Approval
Applications may be submitted at any time. Please be patient if we are not close to a reservation date, as responses may take longer. To be considered for kitten reservation day, your application must be submitted and approved prior to the reservation day. Home-check will be required as a part of the approval process to ensure your property is secure and prevents free-roaming beyond its border.
Once approved, you will receive a confirmation, and your name will be added to our pre-approved file. Pre-approved applicants will receive priority consideration. Stay connected with us for updates and important announcements.
6. Reservation Day
Reservations open at 12:00 noon on the specified date. Please note:
• Being pre-approved does not automatically include you in reservation day.
• You must contact us at 12:00 noon with your top picks listed in order of preference.
• Reservations are handled on a first-come, first-approved basis.
You must remain available to respond to our messages promptly throughout the day. We do not send individual reminders about reservation day, so keep track of the announcement on our Facebook page, WhatsApp group or website for updates.
7. When Contacting Us on Reservation Day
In your message or email, please include:
• The kittens you are interested in (list 1-3 choices in order of preference).
• What you are looking for in a Maine Coon kitten.
• Details about your family, home environment, other pets (including their personalities), and the ages of your children.
8. Placement Considerations
Kitten placement is based on personality and lifestyle fit rather than gender or colour. While we aim to accommodate your preferences, our focus is on how well a kitten will adapt to your home. For example:
• A shy kitten will not be placed in a busy household with multiple pets or very young children.
• A high-energy kitten will not be placed in a home seeking a lap cat or lacking a suitable playmate.
Ultimately, a well-matched kitten brings greater happiness to both the family and the cat.
9. Virtual Viewing Only
We do not allow in-home kitten viewings. Approved applicants may request:
• Videos of kittens, or
• Video calls closer to reservation day.
These will only be arranged after application approval and during the week leading up to reservation day, as much can change over time.
NOTE: Dark Moon reserves the right to refuse any person at any point in the adoption process up to and including pick up day. If final payment has been paid in advance, it will be reimbursed accordingly.
Can I buy a kitten with breeding rights / unsterilized?
NO. While we might consider offering breeding rights, it will only be to selected registered breeders we have known personally for years; who share our passion, vision for the breed and adhere to our breeding ethics.
All kittens will be neutered/spayed before leaving to prevent unwanted pregnancies (which can occur as early as 4 months of age), minimize health risks (such as ovarian or testicular cancer, pyometra, dystocia, and mammary carcinoma), and reduce undesirable behavioral issues (such as urinary marking and aggression) associated with unsterilized cats.
According to The Winn Feline Foundation Report published on The Cat Fanciers' Association website, various studies indicate that early neuter/spay is, in fact, beneficial and not detrimental to the overall health of the kitten/cat.
All kittens will be neutered/spayed before leaving to prevent unwanted pregnancies (which can occur as early as 4 months of age), minimize health risks (such as ovarian or testicular cancer, pyometra, dystocia, and mammary carcinoma), and reduce undesirable behavioral issues (such as urinary marking and aggression) associated with unsterilized cats.
According to The Winn Feline Foundation Report published on The Cat Fanciers' Association website, various studies indicate that early neuter/spay is, in fact, beneficial and not detrimental to the overall health of the kitten/cat.
How much Does Dark Moon kitten cost?
The pricing of our kittens is determined by various aspects crucial to responsibly and ethically running our breeding program. This includes comprehensive health screenings, expanding the gene pool with new bloodlines, providing the highest quality food, and working towards achieving Championship titles for our cats.
Our adoption fee includes:
- Healthy, pure bred and well socialized Maine Coon kitten.
- SACC registration and certified 4-generation pedigree.
- Transfer form for the change of ownership.
- 2 sets of core vaccinations, including rabies.
- Sterilization at 13 weeks of age and a microchip.
- De-worming and flea treatment, as needed.
- Genetic test results of both parents, available on our website or upon request.
- A kitten adoption contract designed in the best interest of the kitten.
- Kitten's health book with vaccination records and sterilization certificate.
- One year health guarantee, activated by the mandatory health check within 72 hours of the kitten's homecoming.
- High-quality raw food for the first week for our Cape Town clients.
- A comprehensive kitten pack, featuring the Kitten Owner's Guide providing information on feeding, settling the kitten in and introducing them to your other pets. It also includes other useful information for many years to come, along with a toy and a soft blanket.
- Our assurance that we can be contacted anytime to offer advice and tips regarding your kitten's care and well-being.
Adoption fees are discussed individually during the application process. Feel free to message us with any questions.
NOTE: Due to the increasing costs of food, pet supplies, and veterinary care, the adoption fee is subject to change at our discretion. We are committed to fairness in pricing, ensuring that any adjustments reflect our dedication to providing the highest standards of care for our cats and kittens.
Our adoption fee includes:
- Healthy, pure bred and well socialized Maine Coon kitten.
- SACC registration and certified 4-generation pedigree.
- Transfer form for the change of ownership.
- 2 sets of core vaccinations, including rabies.
- Sterilization at 13 weeks of age and a microchip.
- De-worming and flea treatment, as needed.
- Genetic test results of both parents, available on our website or upon request.
- A kitten adoption contract designed in the best interest of the kitten.
- Kitten's health book with vaccination records and sterilization certificate.
- One year health guarantee, activated by the mandatory health check within 72 hours of the kitten's homecoming.
- High-quality raw food for the first week for our Cape Town clients.
- A comprehensive kitten pack, featuring the Kitten Owner's Guide providing information on feeding, settling the kitten in and introducing them to your other pets. It also includes other useful information for many years to come, along with a toy and a soft blanket.
- Our assurance that we can be contacted anytime to offer advice and tips regarding your kitten's care and well-being.
Adoption fees are discussed individually during the application process. Feel free to message us with any questions.
NOTE: Due to the increasing costs of food, pet supplies, and veterinary care, the adoption fee is subject to change at our discretion. We are committed to fairness in pricing, ensuring that any adjustments reflect our dedication to providing the highest standards of care for our cats and kittens.
Do you screen your breeding cats for genetic diseases?
YES. We screen our breeding cats for known breed-specific genetic conditions, including Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy through DNA testing (MYBPC3 mutation) and echocardiograms; as well as DNA testing for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKDef).
HCM, the most common and complex heart disease in cats, continues to be a significant health concern within the breed. Regular ultrasound screenings remain the most reliable method for managing the risk. Most cases are detectable via ultrasound before a cat turns five, although some may go undiagnosed. While there is no cure, medical treatments can help control symptoms.
Even with diligent efforts to reduce genetic predispositions, we cannot guarantee that your Maine Coon will remain unaffected by these conditions. Factors like age, gender, weight, and environmental influences - such as diet, injuries, and activity level - also contribute significantly to a cat’s overall health. Furthermore, HCM is not always genetic in origin. It can develop as a secondary effect of other illnesses, particularly in older cats, and is often associated with hyperthyroidism. Annual veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your cat's health.
To safeguard against unexpected veterinary expenses, we strongly recommend considering pet health insurance.
HCM, the most common and complex heart disease in cats, continues to be a significant health concern within the breed. Regular ultrasound screenings remain the most reliable method for managing the risk. Most cases are detectable via ultrasound before a cat turns five, although some may go undiagnosed. While there is no cure, medical treatments can help control symptoms.
Even with diligent efforts to reduce genetic predispositions, we cannot guarantee that your Maine Coon will remain unaffected by these conditions. Factors like age, gender, weight, and environmental influences - such as diet, injuries, and activity level - also contribute significantly to a cat’s overall health. Furthermore, HCM is not always genetic in origin. It can develop as a secondary effect of other illnesses, particularly in older cats, and is often associated with hyperthyroidism. Annual veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your cat's health.
To safeguard against unexpected veterinary expenses, we strongly recommend considering pet health insurance.
What kind of healthcare will my kitten receive?
All our cats and kittens receive attentive care from our trusted veterinarian, Dr. Bebbington at Blue Cross Veterinary Hospital in Newlands. Kittens undergo a thorough health examination, receive age-appropriate vaccinations - including rabies; parasite treatment as needed, and are neutered/spayed and micro-chipped before leaving our care.
At what age can I bring my kitten home?
Kittens will be ready for their new homes at approximately 14-16 weeks of age. This timeframe is non-negotiable, as it ensures proper socialization and optimal health. Vet appointments, vaccinations, and spay/neuter procedures are scheduled in advance and cannot be moved around.
We do our best to accommodate pick-up or flight arrangements around your schedule only after kittens have been fully vaccinated and have recovered from surgery. However, if a kitten experiences a reaction to a vaccination, becomes unwell, or has complications from spay/neuter surgery, the scheduled homecoming date may be adjusted to prioritize their well-being.
We do our best to accommodate pick-up or flight arrangements around your schedule only after kittens have been fully vaccinated and have recovered from surgery. However, if a kitten experiences a reaction to a vaccination, becomes unwell, or has complications from spay/neuter surgery, the scheduled homecoming date may be adjusted to prioritize their well-being.
Do you transport kittens to other provinces or other countries?
YES. We can fly kittens to all major airports in South Africa. We will organize everything on our side, but the travel costs are on your account and are due prior to the kitten's departure.
NO. Currently, we don't export our kittens to other countries. We prefer to keep our kittens locally.
NO. Currently, we don't export our kittens to other countries. We prefer to keep our kittens locally.
Can we come for a visit to see your cats?
Since our home doubles as the cattery, we do not operate on standard "business hours" and cannot accommodate drop-in visits. Protecting the well-being of our family and cats - especially young kittens and pregnant queens - is our top priority, as unplanned visits can cause stress and increase the risk of germ exposure. While visits to meet or play with the kittens are not possible, exceptions are made for scheduled kitten pick-up days, where new owners can meet the kittens’ parents and some of our other cats.
For those interested in meeting us or interacting with our cats, we encourage visiting cat shows held in and around Cape Town. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet the Dark Moon crew up close and personal.
We regularly post photos and videos on our social media pages, allowing you to watch the kittens mature and grow. As new owners, you will also receive updates with photos and videos via WhatsApp or Messenger as time allows - usually once a week.
Additionally, we are open to arranging a video call prior to kitten reservation, providing you the opportunity to meet us and the kitten virtually.
For those interested in meeting us or interacting with our cats, we encourage visiting cat shows held in and around Cape Town. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet the Dark Moon crew up close and personal.
We regularly post photos and videos on our social media pages, allowing you to watch the kittens mature and grow. As new owners, you will also receive updates with photos and videos via WhatsApp or Messenger as time allows - usually once a week.
Additionally, we are open to arranging a video call prior to kitten reservation, providing you the opportunity to meet us and the kitten virtually.
Do you offer any kitten related advice after the kitten leaves to new home?
YES: Anytime! We always strive to respond as soon as possible (within reason) if you have any questions regarding your kitten's care or well-being. We also love receiving updates and photos of our graduates, so please keep them coming!
What kind of home enviroment do Maine Coons require?
We place our kittens only in safe, "cat-proofed" homes, and our contract clearly states that free roaming is not allowed. While this may differ from the traditional idea of cats roaming freely, it’s important to understand that in today’s world, it’s no longer safe for pets to roam unsupervised.
REASONS WHY WE DON'T ALLOW FREE ROAMING:
* Maine Coons can be susceptible to theft due to their trusting and affectionate nature, combined with their impressive size and appearance.
* Indoor cats are protected from diseases, viruses, poisoning, and cat fights.
* Indoor cats are safeguarded from predators, dogs, cars, cat traps and people - keeping in mind that not everyone is a cat lover.
CREATING A SAFE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT:
We prefer placing our kittens in homes with "cat-proofed" fencing or boundary walls, allowing safe access to gardens. For those with extensive gardens that can't be enclosed, a "catio" is great alternative for outdoor experiences in a secure setting. Unless your boundary walls are 'cat-proofed' or all windows/gates have 'clear view' or similar safety bars, it's necessary to install mesh on all windows and doors/gates to prevent slipping out. Maine Coons, being smart and excellent escape artists, can find loopholes and make a run for it if given the chance.
Companies like Pet Safety Solutions specialize in securing boundary walls, windows, and gates, and can also build catios to ensure your home is safe, and your kitten/cat can't escape but still enjoys the fresh air, sunshine, or bird-watching. DIY enthusiasts can find many tutorials online for 'cat-proofing' their property.
IMPORTANCE OF PLAYTIME AND COMPANIONSHIP:
One of the most important aspects of caring for your new kitten is playtime. Mutual play not only creates a strong bond between the new owner and the kitten but also keeps the kitten busy, stimulated, and overall happy. Maine Coons, being by nature a very social breed , can get lonely or easily bored, especially if they are the only cats in the household. It's challenging for them to be left alone all day without another cat to play with and keep them company, often leading to behavior issues.
For this reason, we prefer to place our kittens in homes with another young cat/kitten as a companion. We particularly love it when two siblings go together to a new home as they've already formed a strong bond. Alternatively, we encourage adopting a kitten from a reputable animal shelter or rescue organization if you currently don't have a young cat/kitten in your home.
REASONS WHY WE DON'T ALLOW FREE ROAMING:
* Maine Coons can be susceptible to theft due to their trusting and affectionate nature, combined with their impressive size and appearance.
* Indoor cats are protected from diseases, viruses, poisoning, and cat fights.
* Indoor cats are safeguarded from predators, dogs, cars, cat traps and people - keeping in mind that not everyone is a cat lover.
CREATING A SAFE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT:
We prefer placing our kittens in homes with "cat-proofed" fencing or boundary walls, allowing safe access to gardens. For those with extensive gardens that can't be enclosed, a "catio" is great alternative for outdoor experiences in a secure setting. Unless your boundary walls are 'cat-proofed' or all windows/gates have 'clear view' or similar safety bars, it's necessary to install mesh on all windows and doors/gates to prevent slipping out. Maine Coons, being smart and excellent escape artists, can find loopholes and make a run for it if given the chance.
Companies like Pet Safety Solutions specialize in securing boundary walls, windows, and gates, and can also build catios to ensure your home is safe, and your kitten/cat can't escape but still enjoys the fresh air, sunshine, or bird-watching. DIY enthusiasts can find many tutorials online for 'cat-proofing' their property.
IMPORTANCE OF PLAYTIME AND COMPANIONSHIP:
One of the most important aspects of caring for your new kitten is playtime. Mutual play not only creates a strong bond between the new owner and the kitten but also keeps the kitten busy, stimulated, and overall happy. Maine Coons, being by nature a very social breed , can get lonely or easily bored, especially if they are the only cats in the household. It's challenging for them to be left alone all day without another cat to play with and keep them company, often leading to behavior issues.
For this reason, we prefer to place our kittens in homes with another young cat/kitten as a companion. We particularly love it when two siblings go together to a new home as they've already formed a strong bond. Alternatively, we encourage adopting a kitten from a reputable animal shelter or rescue organization if you currently don't have a young cat/kitten in your home.
What do you feed your kittens and cats?
We currently feed a well-balanced prey model diet, complemented by high-quality wet food as a bedtime treat. To ease their transition into new homes, our kittens are gradually introduced to a variety of premium pre-made raw meals and carefully selected commercial foods. Some examples include:
Pawsome Raw Carni Catz
Pawsome Raw Veni-Catz
Paleopet Chicken & Duck Meal
Weruva Paw Lickin' Chicken for Cats
Weruva Pantry Party Variety Pack Wet Cat Food
Little Big Paw Gourmet Mousse - Tender Duck
Omega Treats Salmon Crackling Bites
Orijen Cat Freeze Dried Treats
Orijen Original Cat & Kitten Food - grain free dry cat food for all life stages (fed only in small quantities).
Our feeding routine includes raw meals for breakfast and dinner, with an additional lunch serving for kittens, pregnant and nursing queens. Wet food (or, if absolutely necessary, kibble) is given as a light bedtime snack, while freeze-dried raw is used as a topper and occasional treat.
Important Note: Felines are obligate carnivores and require a high-protein, high-moisture diet to support long term kidney health and overall well-being. While a balanced raw diet is ideal, we understand it may not be suitable for everyone. However; we encourage our clients to maintain the kittens' existing diet to ensure a smooth transition and optimal health. We provide guidance and recommend trusted online resources for those interested in learning more.
Pawsome Raw Carni Catz
Pawsome Raw Veni-Catz
Paleopet Chicken & Duck Meal
Weruva Paw Lickin' Chicken for Cats
Weruva Pantry Party Variety Pack Wet Cat Food
Little Big Paw Gourmet Mousse - Tender Duck
Omega Treats Salmon Crackling Bites
Orijen Cat Freeze Dried Treats
Orijen Original Cat & Kitten Food - grain free dry cat food for all life stages (fed only in small quantities).
Our feeding routine includes raw meals for breakfast and dinner, with an additional lunch serving for kittens, pregnant and nursing queens. Wet food (or, if absolutely necessary, kibble) is given as a light bedtime snack, while freeze-dried raw is used as a topper and occasional treat.
Important Note: Felines are obligate carnivores and require a high-protein, high-moisture diet to support long term kidney health and overall well-being. While a balanced raw diet is ideal, we understand it may not be suitable for everyone. However; we encourage our clients to maintain the kittens' existing diet to ensure a smooth transition and optimal health. We provide guidance and recommend trusted online resources for those interested in learning more.
How do you groom your Maine Coons?
Maine Coon cats have a distinctive, semi-longhair coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in optimal condition. Here are some grooming requirements for Maine Coons:
Brushing: Maine Coons have a dense, water-resistant coat with a soft undercoat. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Use a wide teeth comb (greyhound comb) or slicker brush to remove loose hairs and prevent tangles. We like to use Mikki range of grooming combs and brushes. Aim to brush your Maine Coon at least a twice a week with a quick daily
comb-through to keep knots at bay.
Special Attention to the Mane and Tail: Maine Coons are known for their luxurious manes and bushy tails. Pay extra attention to these areas to prevent matting and tangling. Gently comb through the fur to keep it smooth and free of knots without pulling the hair out.
Bathing: While Maine Coons are generally good at keeping themselves clean, an occasional bath is highly beneficial. Bathing your Maine Coon every 2-3 months helps to remove loose hair and keeps their coat lush and grease-free.
Use a cat-friendly shampoo and make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Be sure to dry your cat completely after a bath. We like to use Biogroom or RiverHound range of shampoos. Pre-washing with Groomer's Goop or a bit of Sunlight liquid before bathing can be helpful for greasy coat or addressing a "stud tail". For maintenance of grease-prone coats between baths, you can lightly dust the problem area with cornstarch powder, gently rub in and brush out.
Nail Trimming: Like all cats, Maine Coons need regular nail trims. Use cat nail clippers to trim the tips of the nails, avoiding the quick (the pinkish area with blood vessels). If you're unsure about how to trim your cat's nails, ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for a demonstration.
Ear Cleaning: Check your Maine Coon's ears regularly for dirt, wax, or signs of infection. Use a cat-safe ear cleaner and a cotton ball or pad to gently clean the ears. If you notice any redness, swelling, or a foul odor, consult your veterinarian.
Dental Care: Maine Coons, like all cats, can be prone to dental issues. Brush your cat's teeth regularly using a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental treats or toys can also help promote good oral health.
Eye Care: Maine Coons may be prone to tear staining. Gently wipe away any tear stains with a damp cloth, and keep the area around the eyes clean.
Remember that grooming provides an opportunity to bond with your Maine Coon, so make it a positive and enjoyable experience. If you're unsure about any aspect of grooming, seek guidance from your veterinarian or a professional groomer.
Brushing: Maine Coons have a dense, water-resistant coat with a soft undercoat. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Use a wide teeth comb (greyhound comb) or slicker brush to remove loose hairs and prevent tangles. We like to use Mikki range of grooming combs and brushes. Aim to brush your Maine Coon at least a twice a week with a quick daily
comb-through to keep knots at bay.
Special Attention to the Mane and Tail: Maine Coons are known for their luxurious manes and bushy tails. Pay extra attention to these areas to prevent matting and tangling. Gently comb through the fur to keep it smooth and free of knots without pulling the hair out.
Bathing: While Maine Coons are generally good at keeping themselves clean, an occasional bath is highly beneficial. Bathing your Maine Coon every 2-3 months helps to remove loose hair and keeps their coat lush and grease-free.
Use a cat-friendly shampoo and make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Be sure to dry your cat completely after a bath. We like to use Biogroom or RiverHound range of shampoos. Pre-washing with Groomer's Goop or a bit of Sunlight liquid before bathing can be helpful for greasy coat or addressing a "stud tail". For maintenance of grease-prone coats between baths, you can lightly dust the problem area with cornstarch powder, gently rub in and brush out.
Nail Trimming: Like all cats, Maine Coons need regular nail trims. Use cat nail clippers to trim the tips of the nails, avoiding the quick (the pinkish area with blood vessels). If you're unsure about how to trim your cat's nails, ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for a demonstration.
Ear Cleaning: Check your Maine Coon's ears regularly for dirt, wax, or signs of infection. Use a cat-safe ear cleaner and a cotton ball or pad to gently clean the ears. If you notice any redness, swelling, or a foul odor, consult your veterinarian.
Dental Care: Maine Coons, like all cats, can be prone to dental issues. Brush your cat's teeth regularly using a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental treats or toys can also help promote good oral health.
Eye Care: Maine Coons may be prone to tear staining. Gently wipe away any tear stains with a damp cloth, and keep the area around the eyes clean.
Remember that grooming provides an opportunity to bond with your Maine Coon, so make it a positive and enjoyable experience. If you're unsure about any aspect of grooming, seek guidance from your veterinarian or a professional groomer.
Do You breed giant maine coons?
Our breeding philosophy emphasizes health, temperament, and breed type, elevating these aspects above a focus on size alone. While the Maine Coon is renowned for its large size among domestic cat breeds, predicting the size of a kitten when it reaches adulthood is not possible. This is due to their slow growth, with full maturity typically reached only around 4 years of age. Size in Maine Coons is determined not only by weight but also by height and length, reflecting their sturdy bone structure and strong muscles rather than sheer body mass alone. Excessive weight can lead to joint problems, spinal issues and arthritis.
According to data submitted to TICA (international cat registry), the average weight of a fully grown male is between 8 - 10 kg and females typically weigh between 5.5 - 7 kg.
While size is a notable trait of Maine Coons, these cats have many other remarkable qualities. They are known for being sweet-tempered, gentle and friendly, making them great companions to anyone. Maine Coons are always eager to 'help' with household chores but aren't overly demanding of attention. Often compared to dogs, they are intelligent, loyal, highly entertaining and can even be trained to walk on a leash and perform tricks like 'fetch'.
According to data submitted to TICA (international cat registry), the average weight of a fully grown male is between 8 - 10 kg and females typically weigh between 5.5 - 7 kg.
While size is a notable trait of Maine Coons, these cats have many other remarkable qualities. They are known for being sweet-tempered, gentle and friendly, making them great companions to anyone. Maine Coons are always eager to 'help' with household chores but aren't overly demanding of attention. Often compared to dogs, they are intelligent, loyal, highly entertaining and can even be trained to walk on a leash and perform tricks like 'fetch'.