Adoption Requirements
To ensure the lifelong health, safety, and happiness of our kittens, we have a few non-negotiable requirements for prospective families:
Dark Moon Quasar - Red Ticked Tabby kitten
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Adoption Process: Four Simple Steps
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STEP ONE:
SUBMIT A KITTEN APPLICATION To be considered for adoption, all prospective families must complete a kitten application. Applications open once a litter has been born and the kittens are at least 10 weeks old. To stay informed about upcoming litters and application openings, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates or check our website for regular updates on pending pregnancies, current litters, and anticipated adoption timelines. |
Dark Moon Kali - Black Classic Tabby kitten
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STEP TWO: RESERVE YOUR KITTEN Once your application is approved and a kitten has been selected, a deposit is required to reserve your kitten. The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable and will be deducted from the final purchase price. The remaining balance must be paid at least seven days before the kitten’s go-home date. |
STEP THREE: SIGN THE ADOPTION AGREEMENT To finalize your reservation, the signed adoption agreement must be returned within 24 hours, together with the deposit payment. The agreement includes our health guarantee against genetic conditions and outlines other important terms of sale. |
Litter of Dark Moon kittens
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STEP FOUR:
PREPARE FOR YOUR KITTEN'S ARRIVAL Once you reserve your kitten, he or she will be ready to join your family in approximately 4–6 weeks, at a minimum age of 14 weeks. This gives you plenty of time to prepare for your new companion. Kittens can be collected from our home in Muizenberg, Cape Town, or we can assist by recommending a trusted pet travel agency for safe delivery to another province. We also recommend scheduling a veterinary appointment in advance, as your kitten must be seen by a vet within 72 hours of arrival to activate our health guarantee. |
Dark Moon Winter Sky - Black Classic Tabby with White kitten
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Kitten Pricing
Our kitten pricing reflects the quality of our bloodlines, the extensive care invested in each kitten’s development and our ongoing commitment to health and breed integrity. This includes comprehensive DNA and cardiac screening of our breeding cats, the introduction of diverse and carefully selected lines, premium nutrition, and active participation in cat shows to uphold and promote the Maine Coon breed standard.
Prices are subject to change without notice due to rising costs of veterinary care, nutrition, and responsible breeding practices. Breeding rights are not included and are only offered to trusted breeder partners through prior agreement.
Prices are subject to change without notice due to rising costs of veterinary care, nutrition, and responsible breeding practices. Breeding rights are not included and are only offered to trusted breeder partners through prior agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please take a moment to read through these - and if there’s something we haven’t covered, feel free to reach out directly.
Do you screen your breeding cats for genetic diseases?
Yes - our breeding cats are genetically tested and clear for HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy), and PkDef (Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency) - hereditary conditions known to affect Maine Coons. We use ZooOmics for DNA testing, and echocardiograms are performed by experienced veterinary specialists. You can view each cat’s test results on their individual profile page.
We put great care and consideration into our breeding program - from comprehensive health testing to carefully planned, selective pairings - to give every kitten the best possible start in life.
While we make every effort to minimize risks, certain health conditions may still occur due to factors beyond our control. A cat’s overall health is influenced by multiple elements, including genetics, gender, age, diet, environment, lifestyle, and the inherent unpredictability of life. We strongly recommend obtaining pet health insurance to assist with any unforeseen veterinary expenses.
We put great care and consideration into our breeding program - from comprehensive health testing to carefully planned, selective pairings - to give every kitten the best possible start in life.
While we make every effort to minimize risks, certain health conditions may still occur due to factors beyond our control. A cat’s overall health is influenced by multiple elements, including genetics, gender, age, diet, environment, lifestyle, and the inherent unpredictability of life. We strongly recommend obtaining pet health insurance to assist with any unforeseen veterinary expenses.
Can you add me to your waiting list?
Our approach is not based on a first-come, first-served waiting list. We focus on making the best possible match between each kitten and the right home, taking into account both the kitten’s nature and your your household's lifestyle and environment. In short - we do not keep a waiting list an we don't accept deposits until we’ve confirmed that we have a kitten available for you. Once a successful mating has taken place, we will share updates on our website and social media pages, including when applications will open for that particular litter.
If you're interested in adopting from us, we encourage you to stay in touch - whether via Instagram, Facebook, or email. If you're not on social media, that’s absolutely fine. Sending us a brief email introduction, ideally with a few photos of your family or current pets, helps us get to know you better and allows us to thoughtfully consider which kittens might be the best fit for your home.
“How long is the wait?”
This is one of our most frequently asked questions - and the honest answer is: it varies. Timing depends on several factors, including the time of year (as each of our girls is bred only once annually), the specific color or gender you’re hoping for, and how many other families are also interested in a similar kitten.
If you're interested in adopting from us, we encourage you to stay in touch - whether via Instagram, Facebook, or email. If you're not on social media, that’s absolutely fine. Sending us a brief email introduction, ideally with a few photos of your family or current pets, helps us get to know you better and allows us to thoughtfully consider which kittens might be the best fit for your home.
“How long is the wait?”
This is one of our most frequently asked questions - and the honest answer is: it varies. Timing depends on several factors, including the time of year (as each of our girls is bred only once annually), the specific color or gender you’re hoping for, and how many other families are also interested in a similar kitten.
Do you spay/neuter your kittens before they go to new homes?
Yes, all of our kittens are spayed or neutered before going to their new homes.
Early sterilization supports a quicker recovery, fewer complications, and helps ensure our kittens never end up in the hands of backyard breeders. While we thoroughly screen every applicant, sterilizing early provides an added layer of protection in rare circumstances.
Contrary to old myths, early spay/neuter does not stunt growth. Research shows that kittens sterilized young may even grow slightly larger, as their growth plates close later. Many veterinary practices now recommend sterilizing kittens before they reach sexual maturity — typically before 16 weeks -- provided they are healthy and meet the appropriate weight guidelines.
This timing helps prevent accidental litters and significantly reduces the risk of serious health issues later in life, including ovarian or testicular cancer, pyometra, mammary carcinoma, and birthing complications. Sterilized kittens are also less likely to develop hormone-driven behaviours such as spraying or aggression.
Decades of research and widespread clinical use — including studies supported by the Winn Feline Foundation and the Cat Fanciers’ Association — confirm that early-age spay/neuter is safe and effective when performed by qualified, experienced veterinarians who follow current, evidence-based paediatric protocols.
Early sterilization supports a quicker recovery, fewer complications, and helps ensure our kittens never end up in the hands of backyard breeders. While we thoroughly screen every applicant, sterilizing early provides an added layer of protection in rare circumstances.
Contrary to old myths, early spay/neuter does not stunt growth. Research shows that kittens sterilized young may even grow slightly larger, as their growth plates close later. Many veterinary practices now recommend sterilizing kittens before they reach sexual maturity — typically before 16 weeks -- provided they are healthy and meet the appropriate weight guidelines.
This timing helps prevent accidental litters and significantly reduces the risk of serious health issues later in life, including ovarian or testicular cancer, pyometra, mammary carcinoma, and birthing complications. Sterilized kittens are also less likely to develop hormone-driven behaviours such as spraying or aggression.
Decades of research and widespread clinical use — including studies supported by the Winn Feline Foundation and the Cat Fanciers’ Association — confirm that early-age spay/neuter is safe and effective when performed by qualified, experienced veterinarians who follow current, evidence-based paediatric protocols.
What is included in kitten adoption?
– 1-Year Genetic Health Guarantee - activated upon a vet check within 72 hours of arrival and receipt of the vet's report
– Kitten adoption contract designed in the best interest of the kitten
– Spay/Neuter completed prior to going home (performed at approximately 13 weeks)
– Core Vaccinations: First and second FVRCP vaccines, plus rabies vaccine
– Microchip for identification - microchip must be updated in your name
– Welcome Bag with food samples (local clients only), toys, and helpful kitten care information
– SACC Registration Form + 4 Generations Certified Pedigree
– Health Book containing vaccination records, wellness exam checklist and sterilization certificate
– Kitten adoption contract designed in the best interest of the kitten
– Spay/Neuter completed prior to going home (performed at approximately 13 weeks)
– Core Vaccinations: First and second FVRCP vaccines, plus rabies vaccine
– Microchip for identification - microchip must be updated in your name
– Welcome Bag with food samples (local clients only), toys, and helpful kitten care information
– SACC Registration Form + 4 Generations Certified Pedigree
– Health Book containing vaccination records, wellness exam checklist and sterilization certificate
how old are kittens when they get to come home?
Kittens are typically ready to go to their new homes between 14 and 16 weeks of age, after they have been fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered. While this is our standard timeline, in rare cases we may hold on to a kitten a little longer if we feel they need additional time to mature or heal from their neuter/spay procedure.
Do you offer delivery or only local adoptions?
We offer safe and reliable flight arrangements to all major airports across South Africa. Travel logistics will be fully organized by us to ensure a smooth experience. However, please note that transport costs are the responsibility of the buyer and must be settled in full before your kitten’s departure.
At this time, we do not export kittens internationally.
At this time, we do not export kittens internationally.
do you sell breeding rights?
Our kittens are sold as pet companions only. Breeding rights are offered exclusively to long-established breeders whom we have known and worked with for several years.
can we visit our kitten or see your cats?
To protect the health and well-being of our cats and kittens, we do not allow in-person visits to our home prior to pick-up days. Limiting foot traffic helps us maintain a calm, low-stress environment and greatly reduces the risk of introducing outside germs. The safety and privacy of our family are equally important, and we appreciate your understanding and respecting our boundaries.
If you’d like to meet us or interact with our cats in person, we encourage you to attend cat shows in and around Cape Town. These public events are a wonderful opportunity to meet the Dark Moon crew, learn more about the Maine Coon breed, and see our cats in a relaxed, social setting.
We also share frequent updates - photos and videos of our kittens - on our social media platforms, allowing you to follow their journey as they grow. Once you're a confirmed new owner, we’ll continue to provide personalized updates via WhatsApp or Messenger as time allows - typically once a week.
If you'd like to meet us before reserving a kitten, we’re happy to arrange a video call, giving you a chance to connect with us virtually, ask questions, and get to know us and our cattery better.
If you’d like to meet us or interact with our cats in person, we encourage you to attend cat shows in and around Cape Town. These public events are a wonderful opportunity to meet the Dark Moon crew, learn more about the Maine Coon breed, and see our cats in a relaxed, social setting.
We also share frequent updates - photos and videos of our kittens - on our social media platforms, allowing you to follow their journey as they grow. Once you're a confirmed new owner, we’ll continue to provide personalized updates via WhatsApp or Messenger as time allows - typically once a week.
If you'd like to meet us before reserving a kitten, we’re happy to arrange a video call, giving you a chance to connect with us virtually, ask questions, and get to know us and our cattery better.
why choose daRK MOON?
Carefully Selected Bloodlines
Our purebred Maine Coon kittens come from carefully selected, health-tested bloodlines. We focus on preserving the breed in its truest form, prioritizing health, temperament, and beauty over trends or size.
Ethical & Transparent Breeding
All kittens are born and raised in our home—not in cages or separate facilities—and receive constant care, affection, and social interaction. We provide regular updates, photos, and detailed information throughout the adoption process so you can follow their journey from the very start.
Well-Socialized, Confident Kittens
Our kittens grow up underfoot with daily handling and interaction. Early exposure to normal household activities helps them become confident, adaptable, and ready for a smooth transition into their new homes.
Comprehensive Health Testing
Our breeding cats undergo DNA testing and echocardiograms to reduce hereditary risks. Each kitten comes with a one-year written health guarantee covering genetic conditions. We also provide ongoing support and guidance after adoption.
Experience & Award-Winning Reputation
With nearly a decade of Maine Coon breeding experience, we have produced multiple award-winning cats, including two SACC “Best Maine Coon Kitten of the Year” titles, and have twice been ranked in the SACC Top 10 Breeder Awards.
Our purebred Maine Coon kittens come from carefully selected, health-tested bloodlines. We focus on preserving the breed in its truest form, prioritizing health, temperament, and beauty over trends or size.
Ethical & Transparent Breeding
All kittens are born and raised in our home—not in cages or separate facilities—and receive constant care, affection, and social interaction. We provide regular updates, photos, and detailed information throughout the adoption process so you can follow their journey from the very start.
Well-Socialized, Confident Kittens
Our kittens grow up underfoot with daily handling and interaction. Early exposure to normal household activities helps them become confident, adaptable, and ready for a smooth transition into their new homes.
Comprehensive Health Testing
Our breeding cats undergo DNA testing and echocardiograms to reduce hereditary risks. Each kitten comes with a one-year written health guarantee covering genetic conditions. We also provide ongoing support and guidance after adoption.
Experience & Award-Winning Reputation
With nearly a decade of Maine Coon breeding experience, we have produced multiple award-winning cats, including two SACC “Best Maine Coon Kitten of the Year” titles, and have twice been ranked in the SACC Top 10 Breeder Awards.
what do you feed your 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
Purina Pro Plan Chicken in Jelly Wet Cat Food
Omega Treats Salmon Crackling Bites
Orijen Cat Freeze Dried Treats
Purina Pro Plan Chicken Kitten Food - high protein, complete dry food for kittens (only fed in small quantities)
Orijen Original Cat & Kitten Food - grain free dry cat food for all life stages (only fed in small quantities)
Our feeding routine includes raw meals for breakfast and dinner, with an additional lunch serving for kittens and pregnant or 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
Purina Pro Plan Chicken in Jelly Wet Cat Food
Omega Treats Salmon Crackling Bites
Orijen Cat Freeze Dried Treats
Purina Pro Plan Chicken Kitten Food - high protein, complete dry food for kittens (only fed in small quantities)
Orijen Original Cat & Kitten Food - grain free dry cat food for all life stages (only fed in small quantities)
Our feeding routine includes raw meals for breakfast and dinner, with an additional lunch serving for kittens and pregnant or 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.
What grooming needs do Maine Coon cats have?
Maine Coons are known for their stunning, semi-long coats, which require regular grooming to stay in top condition. A thorough brushing once or twice a week helps prevent tangles and mats, while keeping their coat sleek and healthy. A quick daily comb-through, especially during shedding seasons, can make a significant difference in reducing hairballs and matting.
Bathing your Maine Coon every 2-3 months can also be beneficial for removing excess dead hair and maintaining a clean coat. It's important to start grooming routines early in life so your kitten becomes comfortable with handling and care.
In addition to coat care, routine grooming should include regular nail trims, ear and eye checks and dental hygiene.
Regular grooming provides an opportunity to bond with your Maine Coon, so make it a positive and enjoyable experience.
Bathing your Maine Coon every 2-3 months can also be beneficial for removing excess dead hair and maintaining a clean coat. It's important to start grooming routines early in life so your kitten becomes comfortable with handling and care.
In addition to coat care, routine grooming should include regular nail trims, ear and eye checks and dental hygiene.
Regular grooming provides an opportunity to bond with your Maine Coon, so make it a positive and enjoyable experience.
Do I have to keep my Maine Coon indoors?
All Dark Moon kittens and adult cats must be kept indoors in accordance with our adoption policy. We recommend this for all cats, as it’s the safest environment for them.
Indoor life can be wonderfully enriching when set up thoughtfully. Provide scratching posts, climbing trees, tunnels, puzzle feeders, and plenty of interactive playtime with feather toys or balls. Many Maine Coons also enjoy window perches to watch the world outside or cat-safe plants to explore and sniff.
That said, Maine Coons do love the outdoors! If possible, provide a secure outdoor space—such as catio or escape-proof enclosed garden—where they can safely enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and a bit of leaf-chasing fun.
Indoor life can be wonderfully enriching when set up thoughtfully. Provide scratching posts, climbing trees, tunnels, puzzle feeders, and plenty of interactive playtime with feather toys or balls. Many Maine Coons also enjoy window perches to watch the world outside or cat-safe plants to explore and sniff.
That said, Maine Coons do love the outdoors! If possible, provide a secure outdoor space—such as catio or escape-proof enclosed garden—where they can safely enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and a bit of leaf-chasing fun.
How big do Maine Coons get?
Maine Coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds. Adult males typically weigh 6–11 kg, while females are slightly smaller at 4.5–7 kg. They can reach up to 100 cm in length (including the tail) and 40 cm tall at the shoulder, taking 4–5 years to fully mature.
True size comes from robust bone structure and firm musculature—it’s about proportion, length, and height, not just weight.
Despite their impressive size, Maine Coons are gentle giants, cherished for their affectionate temperament and loving nature.
True size comes from robust bone structure and firm musculature—it’s about proportion, length, and height, not just weight.
Despite their impressive size, Maine Coons are gentle giants, cherished for their affectionate temperament and loving nature.
Will a Maine Coon be a good fit for our family? Are they good with children?
Thanks to their gentle and sociable nature, Maine Coons usually get along well with other pets and children, as long as they are treated with respect. Our own children grew up alongside Maine Coons, and some of our cats didn’t even mind a little dress-up play!
Many of our families have welcomed babies a few years after adopting a kitten from us, and they can attest that Maine Coons make great playmates and loving protectors.
Many of our families have welcomed babies a few years after adopting a kitten from us, and they can attest that Maine Coons make great playmates and loving protectors.
Is the South African summer too hot for Maine Coons?
Living in Cape Town near the ocean, we’ve had no issues with Maine Coons coping with the summer heat. Not all Maine Coons have extremely long, fluffy coats—some kittens have less fur—so many adapt very well. You might see your cat lounging under the air conditioner, or if you don’t have one, a fan, a large dish of water, or a cooling mat works perfectly.
Maine Coons love water! Many enjoy paddling or playing in their water bowls. In summer, we provide a baby pool with balls and plastic fish for splashing and standing in—water is both fun and enriching for them.
Maine Coons love water! Many enjoy paddling or playing in their water bowls. In summer, we provide a baby pool with balls and plastic fish for splashing and standing in—water is both fun and enriching for them.