April 12, 2026 · Anna

How to Choose the Right Maine Coon Kitten

Picking a Maine Coon is a 15-year decision — here’s how to make a good one.

Start with Temperament, Not Color

It’s tempting to fall for a black smoke or a rare silver shaded, but Maine Coon personality varies between bloodlines and even within a litter. Spend time observing the kitten:

  • Does it approach new people, or hide?
  • How does it play with siblings — confident or submissive?
  • Does it tolerate being held, or squirm after a few seconds?

Confident, curious kittens adapt to new homes faster.

Evaluate Type

Show-quality Maine Coons have distinct features:

  • Heavy boning — wrists and ankles feel substantial, not delicate
  • Long body — longer than tall, rectangular silhouette
  • Square muzzle — not pointy or Persian-flat
  • Large ears with lynx tips (the wispy hair at the ear tips)
  • Long, flowing tail — plume-like when raised
  • Shaggy, uneven coat — shorter on shoulders, longer on belly and britches

Pet-quality kittens may be lighter-boned or have slight type departures, but they’re just as healthy and lovable.

Demand Health Testing

Every reputable Maine Coon breeder should provide:

  • HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy) — DNA test on parents, ideally echocardiogram clearance too
  • SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) — DNA test
  • PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease) — DNA test
  • FIV/FeLV — negative test on the kitten

Ask to see the paperwork. We provide ours in every kitten packet.

Avoid These Red Flags

  • Kittens offered at 6–8 weeks (too young — legally and developmentally)
  • No pedigree or “pedigree available later”
  • Breeder unwilling to video-call with the kitten
  • Prices significantly below $2,000 for registered Maine Coons
  • Cash-only or crypto-only payment

Ready to Adopt?

Browse our available Maine Coon kittens or contact us with questions. We respond within hours.