Cat Care

Maine Coon care: coat, growth and health screening

Maine Coons take three to five years to finish growing, which shapes almost every care decision.

By Dr. Elena Rowe, DVM · Reviewed by Dr. Priya Anand, DVM, DACVIM · Updated 2026-07-16 · 7 min read

Coat routine

Comb two to three times weekly, focusing on the ruff, britches and behind the ears. The coat is shaggy and uneven by design; a uniform coat usually means over-grooming.

Diet and growth

Extend growth-appropriate nutrition through the long maturity period and monitor weight monthly. Large frame is not licence for a large waist.

Health screening

HCM DNA testing plus echocardiogram in breeding lines, SMA DNA testing, and hip dysplasia awareness in the heaviest lines.

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