How Maine Coon Kittens Grow | A Complete Kitten Journey at LMCoonCat

0–12 Days: Birth, Nursing, and a Sense of Safety

A typical litter includes four to seven Maine Coon kittens. We closely monitor each birth and assist when needed to ensure every kitten begins breathing properly and nurses successfully.

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During the first two weeks, Maine Coon kittens are entirely dependent on their mother. They spend most of their time nursing and sleeping, receiving both nutrition and their earliest immune protection through mother’s milk. At this stage, their eyes and ears are not fully open, and their world is simple: eat and rest.

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We intentionally limit unnecessary handling during this period while carefully monitoring each kitten’s weight and nursing behavior. If any concerns arise, we intervene promptly. Our priority remains the same — a calm, stable mother and a quiet environment, which together form the foundation of a kitten’s earliest sense of safety.

13–25 Days: Sensory Development and Early Learning

As kittens approach two to three weeks of age, their eyes begin to open and their ears start responding to sound. They slowly attempt to stand and walk, developing their first awareness of the environment. While nursing remains their primary source of nutrition, kittens are now entering an early phase of sensory learning.

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During this stage, we closely observe each kitten’s development and gently introduce the litter box environment while allowing them to become familiar with human presence. All interactions are brief, gentle, and low-stimulation, with the goal of building trust and a sense of security, rather than forcing interaction.

26–50 Days: Weaning Transition and Early Personality Development

Around one month of age, a kitten’s development becomes noticeably more dynamic. They begin to gradually transition from nursing to solid food, and litter box habits become more consistent. Interactions among littermates increase significantly, with frequent play, chasing, and imitation — all of which play an important role in learning social boundaries and communication.

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This period is a critical stage for early personality development. At LMCoonCat, we place great importance on the quality of socialization during this time. Kittens are not isolated or confined to cages, but instead raised in a stable, home-based environment. This approach supports the development of confident, affectionate, and emotionally balanced temperaments, making the transition into family life much smoother. During this stage, the mother remains actively involved, continuing to guide her kittens in appropriate social interactions with other cats.

51–65 Days: Physical Development and Kitten Family Matching

As kittens reach approximately seven to nine weeks of age, their physical appearance and body structure begin to stabilize. Bone structure, proportions, and overall balance become clearer, and individual personality traits are easier to observe. Some Maine coon kittens may show especially affectionate tendencies, while others appear more calm and independent.

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During this stage, we typically take formal photos and videos of each kitten and open the selection process to families on our waitlist. At LMCoonCat Maine Coons, kittens are not matched based on appearance alone. Instead, we consider each family’s lifestyle, experience, and personal preferences to ensure a thoughtful and compatible placement. For this reason, we value open communication and encourage future families to share details about their household, daily routine, and expectations, allowing us to make the most suitable match possible.