Feed a Maine Coon a good food high in animal protein designed for large cats: kittens get kitten food until 12–15 months (many breeders advise not rushing the switch), adults a large-breed cat food with bigger kibble and joint support. Kittens up to 4 months eat 4–5 times a day, up to a year 3–4 times, adults 2–3 times. The portion is bigger than for an average cat, but the exact amount depends on weight and body condition: excess weight is especially bad for the joints and heart of a large breed.
Maine Coon traits
- Size. Adult males usually weigh 6–9 kg or more, females 4–6 kg.
- Slow growth. Maine Coons reach full maturity at 3–5 years.
- Joints. Hip dysplasia occurs in the breed — a healthy weight and moderate exercise during growth matter.
- Heart. The breed is predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; responsible breeders test the parents.
- Long, thick coat — needs protein, fatty acids and regular brushing.
What to feed a Maine Coon kitten
A kitten needs a high-protein kitten food with calcium and phosphorus in the right ratio and DHA. Good options include Brit Care Kitten and other foods in dry kitten food. Don't add calcium or vitamins on top of a complete food unless your vet prescribes them: too much calcium in growing large animals is as harmful as too little. General kitten feeding rules are in what to feed a kitten.
Feeding schedule
| Age | Meals a day | Food |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 months | 4–5 | Kitten food, dry and wet |
| 4–8 months | 3–4 | Kitten food |
| 8–15 months | 3 | Kitten food, switching to adult gradually |
| Adult | 2–3 | Large-breed cat food; after neutering, allow for lower calorie needs |
Food for an adult Maine Coon
Foods for large cats suit adult Maine Coons: bigger kibble (the cat chews it better and eats more slowly), more protein for muscle, and added glucosamine and chondroitin for joints. For example, Carnilove Large Breed with duck and turkey or Brit Care Large Cats Power & Vitality. Add wet food to the diet — it provides water and helps prevent urinary stones. See dry cat food and canned cat food.
How much food a Maine Coon needs
Use the feeding table on the bag for your cat's weight. For a 7–8 kg cat it's usually 90–120 g of dry food a day, depending on calorie content and activity. Weigh your cat monthly and check body shape: ribs should be easy to feel and a waist visible from above. Neutered cats usually need 20–30% fewer calories.
Water, bowls and a litter box for a big cat
- Maine Coons often love playing with water — use heavy, wide bowls or a fountain, and more than one.
- Bowls should be wide and stable: long whiskers are uncomfortable in narrow ones.
- The litter box should be large, at least 60 cm long, high-sided or covered.
- A scratching post must be tall and heavy so the cat can stretch to full length without tipping it over. See cat trees and scratching posts.
The Maine Coon coat
Brush the long coat and undercoat 2–3 times a week, especially the belly, the “trousers” and behind the ears, where mats form. A comb with rotating teeth and a slicker brush are handy — find them in cat brushes and combs. Long-haired cats swallow a lot of hair, so malt pastes and hairball food are useful — more in hairballs in cats.
Activity and treats
Maine Coons stay clever and playful into old age: they love wand toys, fetch toys and quickly master puzzle feeders. Daily play helps control weight and relieves boredom. Give treats as rewards for play or training — no more than 10% of daily calories — and count them in the total portion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Until what age should a Maine Coon eat kitten food?
Usually until 12–15 months. Switch to adult food gradually over 7–10 days.
Can a Maine Coon eat a home-cooked diet?
Yes, if it's formulated and supplemented with calcium, vitamins and taurine. It's hard to balance yourself, so most owners choose commercial food.
Does a Maine Coon need a special breed food?
Not necessarily. A good large-breed or active adult cat food will do.
Why does my Maine Coon drink so little?
Many large cats dislike narrow bowls and still water. Try a wide bowl, a fountain and wet food.
