Maine Coon Cat Size: How Big Can They Get?

Author: Umi

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Time to read 8 min

Maine Coon cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, known for their large size and friendly personalities. These cats are native to the state of Maine in the United States and have been around for centuries. One of the most unique features of this breed is their size, which can be quite impressive.


Maine Coon cats are known for their large size, with males typically weighing between 13 and 18 pounds and females weighing between 8 and 12 pounds. However, some Maine Coons can weigh up to 25 pounds or more, making them one of the largest domestic cat breeds in the world. Their size is not just due to their weight, but also their long, muscular bodies and fluffy tails. Maine Coons are also known for their distinct facial features, including their large ears and expressive eyes.

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Maine Coon Cat Size: How Big Can They Get?

Key Takeaways

  • Maine Coon cats are known for their large size, with males weighing between 13 and 18 pounds and females weighing between 8 and 12 pounds.

  • Some Maine Coons can weigh up to 25 pounds or more, making them one of the largest domestic cat breeds in the world.

  • Their size is due to their long, muscular bodies and fluffy tails, as well as their distinct facial features such as large ears and expressive eyes.

Maine Coon Cat Size


Maine Coon cats are known for their impressive size and majestic appearance. Upon bringing your new Maine Coon cat home, you will notice its resemblance to a miniature lynx rather than a typical house cat. Each new owner of a Maine Coon kitten tends to perceive their furry companion as massive in comparison to non-Maine Coon cats, only to realize that they grow into even larger adult Maine Coon cats. In this section, we will explore the average size and weight of Maine Coon cats, as well as how they compare to other large domestic cat breeds.

Average Size and Weight


Raising a Maine Coon from a young age can help reduce potential health problems associated with their large size and weight as they grow into strong, sizable cats. Maine Coon cats are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, with males weighing between 13-18 pounds and females weighing between 8-12 pounds. They can reach a length of up to 40 inches, including their long, fluffy tails. Maine Coons have a broad chests, muscular bodies, and large, tufted ears that contribute to their impressive size.

Largest Domestic Cat Breeds


While Maine Coon cats are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, they are not the only ones. Other large cat breeds include the Savannah, Siberian, and Norwegian Forest cats. However, Maine Coons are unique in their size and appearance, with their long, shaggy fur and distinctive facial features.


The height of a mature female Maine Coon typically ranges from 8 to 14 inches (20.32 to 35.56 cm). On the other hand, male Maine Coons can grow to be between 10 and 16 inches (25.5 to 40.64 cm) in height. It is worth noting that Maine Coons are among the few cat breeds that weigh over 10 pounds when fully grown. Their tendency to grow large and fluffy is quite remarkable.

Differences in Size


One interesting aspect of Maine Coon cats is that there can be significant differences in size between individual cats. This is due to a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. Some Maine Coons may be smaller or larger than average, and it is not uncommon for a litter of kittens to have varying sizes.

Growth Period


Maine Coon cats have a longer growth period than most domestic cat breeds, taking up to four years to reach their full size. During this time, they require a balanced diet and plenty of exercise to support their growth and development. Owners of Maine Coon cats should be aware of their unique needs and provide them with the necessary care to ensure they reach their full potential.


In conclusion, Maine Coon cats are one of the largest and most impressive domestic cat breeds. Their size, appearance, and unique personality make them a popular choice for cat lovers around the world.

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Comparing Male and Female Maine Coon Cats


Maine Coons are frequently recognized for their amiable and relaxed demeanor. They are ideal as family companions due to their affinity for human interaction and enjoyment of children's company, although they may exhibit occasional stubbornness. Maine Coons are capable of mastering basic tricks like retrieving a ball or signaling to go outside by ringing a bell, and they tend to shadow you closely when they believe you have food.


Male Maine Coons are generally more energetic compared to their female counterparts and often engage in extensive play sessions with their owners and other pets within the household. While young males may appear slimmer than young females, the disparity in weight between adult males and females of similar age is typically only around 5-10 lbs.

Physical Features

Contributing Characteristics


Maine Coon cats are known for their large size, which is one of the most prominent characteristics of this breed. They are considered to be one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, with males weighing between 13 and 18 pounds, and females weighing between 8 and 12 pounds. They are also known for their long, thick fur, which helps them withstand cold temperatures.


Maine Coon cats have a muscular build and a rectangular body shape. They have a broad chest, and their legs are long and sturdy. Their heads are large, with a square-shaped muzzle, and their ears are wide and tufted. Their eyes are large and expressive, and they come in a variety of colors, including green, gold, and blue.

Tail, Ears, and Paws


The Maine Coon cat's tail is long and bushy, and it is often compared to a raccoon's tail. It is an important feature of this breed, as it helps them balance and maneuver while climbing and jumping. Their ears are also large and tufted, which gives them a distinctive appearance. The tufts of fur on their ears help protect them from the cold and wind.


Maine Coon cats have large, round paws with tufts of fur between their toes. This helps them walk on snow and ice, and it also helps keep their paws warm in cold weather.

Adaptation to Cold Climates


Maine Coon cats are well adapted to cold climates, thanks to their long, thick fur, large paws, and tufted ears. They are also known for their friendly and sociable personalities, which makes them excellent companions for those living in colder climates. They are playful and affectionate, and they enjoy spending time with their human family members. Overall, the Maine Coon cat's physical features make them a unique and beloved breed among cat lovers.

Why Are They So Big?


Maine Coons' impressive size can be attributed to a blend of elements, namely their genetic makeup, dietary intake, and surroundings. While these felines experience rapid growth during their kittenhood, their growth rate gradually decelerates to allow for the ongoing development of their muscles and skeletal system.


The primary reason for this is breeding. This particular breed with long hair was specifically bred to thrive as a barn cat in the harsh winters of the North East. While their long hair does require additional grooming, it also serves to keep them warmer in colder weather.

Various hypotheses exist regarding the large size of Maine Coon cats, such as their origins as hunters of raccoons, deliberate breeding for increased size, and their ability to thrive in colder climates due to their dense fur.


Care and Maintenance

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Full-Size Potential


Maine Coon cats are known for their large size, and it is important for owners to understand their full size potential. Male Maine Coons can weigh between 13-18 pounds, while females can weigh between 8-12 pounds. They can also grow up to 40 inches in length, including their tail. It is important to provide them with enough space to move around comfortably, as well as sturdy furniture and scratching posts that can support their weight.

Balanced Diet and Exercise


Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine is crucial for the health of Maine Coon cats. They require a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as well as plenty of fresh water. Owners should also provide them with toys and opportunities for exercise, such as interactive play and climbing structures. Investing in a cat fountain can also encourage them to drink more water and stay hydrated.

Grooming Needs


Maine Coon cats have long, thick fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and hairballs. Owners should brush their cats at least once a week, using a metal comb and slicker brush to remove loose hair and tangles. Bathing should be limited to once every few months, as frequent bathing can dry out their skin and coat. Regular nail trimming and teeth cleaning are also important for their overall health.


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Conclusion


In conclusion, Maine Coon cats are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Their size is attributed to their genetic makeup, diet, and environment. Adult Maine Coons can weigh up to 20 pounds or more, with males generally being larger than females.


It is important for owners of Maine Coon cats to provide them with a balanced diet and adequate exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, providing them with a spacious living environment can help them thrive and reach their full potential size.


Maine Coons are beloved for their gentle and friendly nature, as well as their impressive size. They make great companions for families and individuals alike, as long as their unique needs are met.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How large can a Maine Coon cat grow?


Maine Coon cats are known for their impressive size, and they can grow up to 40 inches in length from nose to tail. They are also known for their muscular build and can weigh up to 25 pounds.

What is the average weight range for a Maine Coon cat?


The average weight range for a Maine Coon cat is between 9 to 18 pounds. However, it is not uncommon for some to weigh more than 20 pounds.

How does the size of a Maine Coon compare to a regular domestic cat?


Maine Coon cats are significantly larger than regular domestic cats. They are typically twice the size of a regular cat and have a more muscular build.

At what age is a Maine Coon cat fully grown?


Maine Coon cats are slow to mature and can take up to three to five years to reach their full size and weight.

Can the size of a Maine Coon cat vary by gender?


Yes, the size of a Maine Coon cat can vary by gender. Male Maine Coons are generally larger than females, with some males weighing up to 30 pounds.

What size comparison can be made between a Maine Coon cat and a small dog?


Maine Coon cats are often compared in size to small dogs such as the Shih Tzu or the Pomeranian. However, despite their large size, Maine Coon cats are still very much cats and have their own unique personality and behaviors.



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