Cats are in our hearts, and it shows in our lives. Many people with cats adopted the one from the alley or trashcan or showed up pregnant. Not everyone chooses a pedigree cat, and not everyone can afford one. If you are in search of some extra large love, Maine coon cats might be perfect for you. How large they get depends on their sex, genetics, and diet. Let’s find out just how big Maine coon cats can get.
Maine Coon Cat Size
When compared with the average domesticated short-haired American cat, Maine coon cats look enormous. A whole lot of the extra-sized image is thanks to their fur. These cats are born to live in a very chilly place with snow. Their vast paws, many with extra toes, are covered with thick fur. Thick, long fur grows between their toes, providing a snowshoe effect on their feet when they walk on snow. This long, dense fur also grows along the underside of their bodies, providing extra protection from freezing temperatures and a barrier between their dry fur and skin. Even their ears have long tufts of fur at the tips and long hair within the ears.
As far as size, Maine coon cats are the largest domesticated cat. They appear larger than they are, thanks to their fur. They can weigh up to 25 pounds, measure 10 – 16 inches tall, and reach 40 inches long, including their tail. Their coat is very shaggy looking, with many having a thick mane around their necks and a vast, long, bushy tail.
Largest Maine Coon Cat in the World
Now that you are well educated on the size a Maine coon cat can grow to be, it’s time to move on to the largest Maine coon in the entire world. The Guinness Book of World Records lists numerous Maine coon cats in the heavy hitter category. Apparently, with great floof comes great affection because these cats are lovers.
The longest domesticated cat still alive is Barivel, which means joker or clown in its native language. Barivel is from Vigevano in Pavia, Italy, and was selected as the longest cat in the World (still living) in 2018. He measures 3 feet 11.2 inches long (47.2 total inches). The typical domesticated short-haired cat measures around 30 inches long, including the tall. Yes, he is human toddler-sized.
Before Barivel, Mymains Stewart Gilligan, or Stewie as many knew him, was (and still is) the holder of the Guinness Book of Records for the longest cat. He measured 48.5 inches long in 2010 and lost his battle with cancer three short years later, in 2013. Stewie wasn’t just good-looking, either. He was a certified therapy cat who frequently visited his local senior citizens center.
Maine Coon Cat Growth Rate
The rate at which Maine coon cats grow into adulthood is a bit different than the usual domesticated short-haired cat. Though these adorable, tuft-eared, gentle giants have an average lifespan of 12.5 years, shorter than the average domesticated short-haired cat, 20 years, they mature much slower and keep their kitten antics lifelong.
The average house cat reaches maturity by one year old, but with Maine Coons, it takes three to five years for them to mature. However, roughly 80% of their adult weight has been reached by one year. After that, and a bit like humans, they begin filling in with muscle mass after their first birthday.
A typical male Maine coon can weigh from 18 – 25 pounds when fully grown, whereas a female might weigh 10 – 15 pounds. The size difference is similar to what is seen in average house cats. The larger Maine coon cats are susceptible to hip dysplasia, which of course worsens with additional weight. Heart disease and arthritis are two other issues that plague the biggest Maine coon cats.
What Affects Growth in Maine Coon Cats?
Much can tamper with the growth of a Maine coon cat. Some dangers can be avoided, while others are just a part of life. Having the biggest Maine coon cat doesn’t necessarily make them the healthiest or longest living. Some breeders rely on creating “giant cats” to make a quick buck. Photos found on breeders’ websites can be misleading and may make a cat appear to be much larger than it is.
Like all kittens and cats, Maine coons need a nutritional diet with plenty of protein for their growing bodies. Without the proper nutrition, even the kitten slated to be the largest Maine coon may suffer through inadequate growth. The best way to know whether or not a Maine coon kitten may be large is to look at the parents. If they were extra large, there’s a good chance their offspring will be, too.
Is a Maine Coon Cat Right for You?
Adopting an animal is a huge step. It’s always important to consider how happy your pet will be with your schedule if you can afford a vet, emergency vet costs if necessary if you can afford the cat’s food, and if your living arrangement accepts an addition. If you have other cats, they should get along with a Maine coon cat the same as they would with any other type of cat.
These cats are massive, but they bring extra large love along with their easygoing personalities. Many times, these kitties enjoy the company of some dogs. Everyone’s different, so never assume anything about how your pet feels. Make sure you have plenty of space for your buddy to zoom and play. Also, consider getting a cat wheel (like a hamster wheel, only bigger and more expensive) to help your cat beat boredom while you aren’t there and pack in a little exercise. They are great cats to have, but aren’t all cats pretty great?
