If you have decided to get a pet, you have already made a big step towards a happier life. Dogs, cats, and other domesticated creatures are great company, as created to make your life better. Pets are a real thing for families with small children because the youngest can learn a lot with their four-legged friends.
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There are many factors to consider when choosing a pet. For example, a dog will not be a good choice if you live alone. These animals are mostly accustomed to human company. On the other hand, cats are excellent companions for people with hectic lifestyles. They are independent and not too eager for attention.
If you think about getting a Maine Coon cat, you’re on the right path to choose a loyal and friendly pet. But there are many things to know before getting these kittens. Despite their great nature, they are not for everybody.
Physical Characteristics
The Maine Coon cat breed is large-sized. Its members have solid bodies with strong musculature hidden underneath that dense fur. They have long tails and strong legs and paws. There is a long, silky hair over the strong body of the Maine Coons. This fur is naturally water-resistant, so your pet will enjoy the water and occasional bathing time. Some of these cats are actually pretty good swimmers.
You better be careful as their nails are pretty sharp, helping Maine Coons to climb and navigate. These are curved, and your pet will gladly use them on your furniture. Not because of anger but because they enjoy sharpening their claws. Take your pet out and let them climb on trees or get a handy thing like a cat condo or tree.
High-Maintenance Pets
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Maine Coons is their giant musculature and lush fur, which makes these animals look quite impressive. But there is another side to the coin. If you want your pet’s fur to be shiny, soft, and healthy, he needs quality care. In addition to attention and regular hygiene, proper grooming tools and products are required.
Another thing regarding Maine Coon’s high maintenance is that they don’t enjoy loneliness. Unlike many other cat breeds, these felines will enjoy your company most of the time. They are loyal and dedicated to their humans. That’s why they got the nicknames’ dogs of the cat’s world.’
These felines are not for everyone without the proper personality to deal with their demands. Also, your Maine Coon needs a lot of time outside. If you don’t have a backyard, you have to train them for a leash walk and take them out at least once a day. Or else this cat breed becomes destructive and needs some professional help.
High Energy Levels
These cats do need a good amount of exercise. Whenever you have time, you should play with them or challenge them somehow. Simply, Maine Coons need both physical and mental activities. Provide them with a safe place to play and retreat whenever they feel stressed out or bored. Furnish that place with toys, cat trees, and scratchers, so your pet can just let it all out when you’re not around.
When inactive, Maine Coons are prone to getting diseases that can be dangerous. They can easily get overweight, especially if they are indoor pets living in apartments. You mustn’t allow that, as obesity can lead to heart impairments and a whole range of other conditions that can ruin your pet’s life.
Talk to Breeder
Before getting a Maine Coon, you should be better off in the pet store or a breeder where you can find out some vital information. If you adopt or buy a kitten from a breeder, you have a chance to train them as you wish. But if you get an older cat, you have to make a lot of effort to reshape and resocialize them.
When you adopt cats from a shelter or rescue group, they are probably not properly socialized. But if you are persistent, you shouldn’t have problems as Maine Coons are sweet, gentle, and good-natured. Give them some time and space, and you’ll see how they will fit into your lifestyle and family, even if you have other pets.
You Can Train Maine Coons
Maine Coons are highly intelligent and not known as stubborn, so they won’t combat training. You can teach them some simple tricks, like bringing things or playing fetch, just like dogs. It can be challenging, but it’s funny to watch. But these cats can also be a bit unpredictable, so you need to have a lot of patience.
Maine Coons Are Expensive
When it comes to Maine Coons, you can’t neglect the financial side. These cats can cost $1000 and up, depending on a breeder. Besides this cost, you will have to buy quality foods for your pet, a bunch of toys and accessories, and take them to regular vet check-ups.
Most reputable and caring Maine Coon breeders cover the costs of initial vaccinations and vet check-ups. They might offer you free genetic screening to ensure your pet’s health. On this page, find out about common health issues in this breed.
Some people raise Maine Coons as show animals, and they are very good at that. Others just want these cats for their companionship and to love them as their pets. Whatever the reason you have chosen for this breed, inquire well before buying or adopting.
