Maine Coon Kittens in Florida: A Complete Guide
The Maine Coon is one of the most popular cat breeds, and for good reason. They’re known for their large size, fluffy coats, and friendly personalities. In fact, many people describe them as having “dog-like” personalities because they tend to be social and enjoy playing fetch.
If you’re considering getting a Maine Coon kitten in Florida, this guide is for you. We’ll cover everything from the breed’s unique characteristics to how to find a reputable breeder, what health considerations to keep in mind, and what the adoption process looks like.
Florida breeders often specialize in specific bloodlines or have comprehensive health testing programs, so we’ll also discuss what to look for when choosing a breeder in the Sunshine State.
What to know about the Maine Coon breed
If you’re considering bringing a Maine Coon kitten into your Florida home, it’s a good idea to learn a little bit about their physical characteristics and personality.
Physical Characteristics
Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Male Maine Coons can weigh 20 to 25 pounds by the time they’re four years old, while females tend to weigh in at 10 to 15 pounds.
They’re known for their long, shaggy coats and big, bushy tails. The breed standard emphasizes a balanced, well-proportioned body.
Maine Coons come in all kinds of colors and patterns, including tabby, solid, and bi-color. Some breeders specialize in certain colors, but it’s worth remembering that quality is more important than color.
Temperament and Personality
Maine Coons are known for being friendly and gentle. Because they’re playful and loyal, they’re sometimes called “dog-like.”
They’re also smart and enjoy human company. You can even train them to do tricks or walk on a leash.
Finding Reputable Maine Coon Breeders in Florida
If you’ve decided a Maine Coon kitten is in your future, finding a reputable breeder is key. Here’s why.
Why it’s important to choose a reputable breeder
Reputable breeders focus on the health and well-being of their cats. They’ll conduct health testing to screen for genetic diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and hip dysplasia.
Ethical breeders also concentrate on improving the breed, making sure their kittens are well socialized, and providing a clean, stimulating, and loving environment for their cats.
What to look for in a good breeder
When you’re vetting Maine Coon breeders, look for these characteristics:
- Health guarantees and testing. The best breeders offer guarantees against genetic defects and can tell you about the DNA and PCR testing they’ve done on their breeding cats.
- Transparency and good communication. Good breeders are always transparent about their breeding program and health testing practices. They’ll happily answer your questions and support you as you adopt your kitten.
- A clean cattery and well-socialized kittens. Visit the cattery to observe how the cats live and how the kittens are raised. The kittens should be comfortable around people and other animals.
Florida Maine Coon catteries
Here are a few of the Maine Coon catteries in Florida:
- Sassy Koonz: This breeder emphasizes pedigree, health, and genetics. They offer a seven-year health guarantee and focus on producing friendly Maine Coons in a variety of colors.
- Florida Maine Coons (MajestiCoon & OptiCoon): With more than 45 years in the business, this breeder offers a five-year health guarantee. They’re TICA registered and have won a “Outstanding Maine Coon Kitten Breeder” award five times.
- Salty Coons: Salty Coons kittens are raised in the family home and closely monitored. The breeder offers DNA testing for parent cats and provides veterinary care for the kittens.
Health considerations for Maine Coon kittens
Like all purebred animals, Maine Coon kittens are prone to certain genetic health issues. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for your kitten.
Common genetic health issues
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM is a heart condition seen in Maine Coons. Reputable breeders will screen their cats for HCM through DNA testing and heart scans (echocardiograms).
- Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a neuromuscular disease that can cause muscle weakness. DNA testing can identify cats that carry the SMA gene.
- Hip dysplasia. This condition affects the hip joint. Breeders should have their breeding cats screened for hip dysplasia.
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK Def). PK Def is an inherited cause of anemia in Maine Coons. DNA testing can identify carriers of the PK Def gene.
Importance of early veterinary care
Before you bring your kitten home, make sure they’ve had the following:
- First FVRCP vaccination
- Deworming treatment
- FeLV and FIV testing
Many breeders also require kittens to be spayed or neutered by a certain age, as spaying and neutering can prevent unwanted litters and also reduce the risk of certain health problems.
Nutrition and diet
Feed your kitten a high-quality kitten food that’s rich in protein and nutrients. Many breeders recommend Royal Canin kitten food.
It’s also important to make sure your kitten has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
The Adoption Process and What to Expect
So, you’re ready to bring a Maine Coon kitten into your life? Here’s what you can expect during the adoption process.
Application and Waitlist
Most breeders will ask you to fill out an application. This helps them get to know you and decide if you’d be a good match for one of their kittens. Be as thorough as possible on the application and be prepared to answer follow-up questions. Because Maine Coon kittens are so popular, you may have to join a waitlist. The more flexible you are about color and pattern, the sooner you may get a kitten.
Kitten Pickup and Transition
When you pick up your kitten, the breeder should provide you with a Florida Health Certificate and a contract. The contract may include a requirement that you spay or neuter the kitten by a certain age.
Before the kitten arrives, make sure your home is safe and comfortable. Have food, water, a litter box, and toys ready so the kitten can settle in.
Ongoing Support from the Breeder
Good breeders care a lot about the kittens they produce, and they usually offer ongoing support and guidance to the people who adopt them. Some breeders even try to create a “family” among their kitten owners, so you can compare notes and share stories.
Don’t hesitate to contact the breeder with any questions or concerns you have. They’re usually happy to help!
How much do Maine Coon kittens cost in Florida?
So, you’re ready to buy a Maine Coon kitten. What can you expect to pay?
Initial purchase price
The price of a Maine Coon kitten can vary quite a bit, depending on factors like:
- Pedigree
- Health testing
- Reputation of the breeder
Kittens that come from champion bloodlines or that have rare coloring are generally more expensive.
In general, expect to pay somewhere in the range of $3,000 to $6,000 for a Maine Coon kitten. Some breeders, like Sassy Koonz, start at a higher price point, such as $5,500.
Ongoing expenses
Don’t forget to factor in the ongoing costs of owning a cat.
You’ll need to budget for high-quality kitten food and cat litter, as well as regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and treatment for any health conditions that might arise.
Also, Maine Coons need regular grooming to keep their long fur from matting. Plan to comb or brush yours a few times a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cat is bigger than a Maine Coon?
While Maine Coons are known for their large size, the Savannah cat is typically larger. Savannahs are a hybrid breed resulting from crossing a domestic cat with a serval. They can weigh significantly more than Maine Coons and stand taller at the shoulder. It’s worth noting that Savannahs have different care requirements and legal considerations.
Are Maine Coon cats worth it?
Whether a Maine Coon is “worth it” depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. They are affectionate, intelligent, and playful, making great companions. However, they do require regular grooming due to their long fur, and their initial cost can be higher than other breeds. If you appreciate a large, friendly cat and are prepared for the commitment, then the answer is probably yes.
Can a Maine Coon be a house cat?
Absolutely! Despite their size and semi-long hair, Maine Coons adapt wonderfully to indoor living. They are generally gentle giants who enjoy lounging around and interacting with their families. Providing them with plenty of toys, scratching posts, and climbing opportunities will keep them happy and stimulated inside.
Are Maine Coon cats high maintenance?
Maine Coons are moderate maintenance. Their long fur requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent matting and tangles. They also benefit from occasional baths. Additionally, like all cats, they need regular vet checkups, quality food, and a clean litter box. While not as demanding as some breeds, potential owners should be prepared for the grooming commitment.
The Bottom Line
Finding a healthy, well-socialized Maine Coon kitten in Florida requires careful research. Prioritize breeders who conduct thorough health testing and adhere to ethical breeding practices. Remember that Maine Coons have unique needs when it comes to grooming, play, and space.
Owning a Maine Coon is a rewarding experience. These gentle giants make wonderful companions and bring endless joy to their families. But responsible pet ownership is key to a happy life together.
If you’re ready to welcome a Maine Coon kitten into your home, connect with reputable breeders. The journey to finding your purrfect furry friend starts now!