The Maine Coon is one of the most popular cat breeds, and for good reason. These “gentle giants” are known for their friendly personalities and impressive size.
If you’re considering adding a Maine Coon to your family, you’re probably wondering just how big they get. This article provides a comprehensive Maine Coon cat size chart, covering everything from growth stages to the factors that influence their size.
Keep in mind that there’s a lot of variability in Maine Coon size, so understanding the size chart is important for setting realistic expectations.
Maine Coon Size: Decoding the Grandeur
One of the Maine Coon’s biggest draws is, well, its size. These gentle giants are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds you can find.
- Males typically weigh between 11 and 25 pounds (5-11 kg).
- Females generally come in at between 8.8 and 15 pounds (4-7 kg).
Their considerable size adds to their majestic presence and enhances their reputation for being gentle and good-natured pets.
Standard vs. Large/Super-Sized Maine Coons
What’s considered “standard” for a Maine Coon? Here’s a rough guide:
- Standard females: 13-18 pounds
- Standard males: 18-25 pounds
Then there are the really big Maine Coons:
- Larger females: Over 25 pounds
- Larger males: Over 30 pounds
Keep in mind that not every Maine Coon will reach “super-sized” status. Size variations are perfectly normal. Just like people, some cats are bigger than others!
Maine Coon Growth Stages: From Kitten to Maturity
Maine Coons grow more slowly than many other cat breeds, so it can be a little hard to know whether your cat is on track to reach their full potential. Here’s a general idea of what to expect at each stage of your Maine Coon’s development.
Kitten Stage (0-6 Months)
A Maine Coon kitten will grow quickly, gaining approximately 5-10 grams each day at first. When they’re born, they’ll weigh between 100 and 150 grams (0.22-0.33 lbs).
Here’s what you can expect in terms of weight:
- 8 weeks: 0.8-1.5 lbs (females), 1.0-1.8 lbs (males)
- 3 months: 3.0-5.0 lbs (females), 4.0-6.5 lbs (males)
Adolescence (6 Months – 2 Years)
During adolescence, your Maine Coon will continue to gain weight, but not as quickly as they did when they were tiny.
Weight milestones during this period:
- 6 months: 6.0-10.0 lbs (females), 8.0-12.0 lbs (males)
- 1 year: 8.0-12.0 lbs (females), 10.0-16.0 lbs (males)
Maturity (2-5 Years)
Most Maine Coons reach their full size and weight between the ages of two and five years.
Here are the final weight milestones for the breed:
- 2 years: 10.0-14.0 lbs (females), 14.0-20.0 lbs (males)
- Full Grown (3-5 years): 13.0-18.0 lbs (females), 18.0-30.0 lbs (males)
Keep in mind that this is just a general guide. If you’re concerned about your cat’s growth, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian.
Maine Coon Size Chart: A Detailed Breakdown
It’s important to remember that Maine Coons, like people, come in all shapes and sizes. The following table shows typical weights for Maine Coons at different ages, but your cat may be smaller or larger. Genetics, diet, and overall health play a big role.
| Age | Male Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Months | 8-12 | 6-10 |
| 1 Year | 12-18 | 10-14 |
| 2+ Years (Adult) | 15-25+ | 10-18 |
In terms of height, Maine Coons usually stand 10 to 16 inches tall. From nose to tail, they can measure up to 40 inches long. Their tails can reach up to 14 inches!
What affects Maine Coon size?
While those size charts give you a general idea, there are quite a few things that affect how big your Maine Coon cat will get.
Genetics
Genetics are the most important factor in determining your cat’s size. If both parents are large, their kittens are more likely to be large, too. When you’re looking for a Maine Coon, focus on finding a breeder who emphasizes strong genetics and adherence to breed standards, rather than just focusing on producing the biggest cats.
Nutrition
Feeding your Maine Coon a high-quality food is essential for healthy growth. Make sure they’re getting a balanced diet with plenty of protein, and avoid foods that use cheap fillers.
Gender
Male Maine Coons are typically larger than females, so that’s another factor to keep in mind as you look at those size charts.
Spaying or neutering
Spaying or neutering can have a slight impact on growth, but it’s less significant than genetics and nutrition.
Environment and activity levels
Make sure your Maine Coon has plenty of space to roam and opportunities to exercise. Activity helps with muscle development and overall health, which can also influence their size.
Maine Coons vs. Other Big Cats
Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, but they aren’t alone. Ragdolls and Norwegian Forest Cats are also quite large. Savannah Cats, a hybrid breed, can also reach impressive sizes.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Ragdolls: Females typically weigh 8-15 pounds; males weigh 12-20 pounds. Known for their docile, floppy temperaments.
- Norwegian Forest Cats: Females range from 8-12 pounds; males, 12-16 pounds. They’re rugged and adaptable, with thick, water-resistant fur.
- Savannah Cats: Can weigh between 12 and 25 pounds, depending on their generation. Savannahs are known for their energy and intelligence.
And, for the record, the Guinness World Record for the longest cat ever belongs to Barivel, a Maine Coon who measured a whopping 47.2 inches!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maine Coon cats bigger than regular cats?
Absolutely! Maine Coons are significantly larger than your average domestic cat. They’re known as “gentle giants” for a reason. While your typical house cat might weigh in around 8-10 pounds, Maine Coons can easily double that, sometimes even more. It’s one of the things that makes them so endearing!
How big is a 2 year old Maine Coon?
At two years old, a Maine Coon is usually nearing their full size, but it is possible for them to continue slowly growing for another year or two. Males will typically be larger than females and weigh around 13-18 pounds, and females will weigh around 8-12 pounds.
How big is a full grown Maine Coon?
A full-grown male Maine Coon can reach lengths of up to 40 inches (including their impressive tail!) and weigh between 15 to 25 pounds, sometimes even exceeding that. Females are generally a bit smaller, averaging between 10 to 15 pounds. Of course, individual size can vary depending on genetics and diet.
How much should a 3 month old Maine Coon weigh?
A 3-month-old Maine Coon kitten will weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They grow quickly! It’s important to provide them with a high-quality kitten food to support their rapid growth and development. Regular vet checkups are also crucial to ensure they’re on track.
Summary
Maine Coons are known for their impressive size, but there’s a lot of variation within the breed. Genetics, diet, and overall health all play a role in how big your Maine Coon will ultimately become. While some cats reach the upper limits of the breed standard, others will be more petite.
When choosing a Maine Coon, it’s important to find a responsible breeder who prioritizes health and temperament over sheer size. A healthy, well-adjusted cat is far more rewarding than one bred solely for largeness.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to provide your Maine Coon with a loving and supportive home, no matter how big (or small!) they may be.