Is a Maine Coon a Good First Cat?
Edited by Ruoqi Lin.
August 27, 2025
Bringing home your very first cat is a big decision. Maybe you’ve been scrolling through photos of fluffy kittens, or you’ve heard about Maine Coons—those “gentle giants” with lion-like manes and puppy-like personalities.
But here’s the big question: is a Maine Coon really a good first cat?
The short answer: yes, in most cases they are. But let’s look a little closer so you know what to expect.
If you’ve never had a cat before, you might be surprised by how much personality a Maine Coon brings to the table. They’re often called the dogs of the cat world because they like to follow you from room to room, watch what you’re doing, and sometimes even “help” with household chores (usually by sitting on your laptop).
Unlike some breeds that can be shy or independent, Maine Coons are generally friendly, playful, and affectionate. Many first-time owners find this comforting—you don’t have to guess if your cat likes you. A Maine Coon will let you know by chirping, purring, or leaning against you for attention.
Here’s the part you’ve probably heard before: Maine Coons are big cats. Adult males often weigh between 15–25 pounds, and females 12–18 pounds. They don’t even finish growing until age three or four.
For new cat parents, that means a few things:
-
Bigger furniture needs: Think sturdier cat trees, wider scratching posts, and a jumbo-sized litter box.
-
More food: A Maine Coon eats more than the average short-haired cat. Budgeting for their diet is important.
-
Lap space: Spoiler alert—you may not have any, because your Maine Coon will probably claim it.
This size isn’t a downside, though. Many people actually love their impressive presence. Just be ready: your first cat won’t feel “small.”
Grooming: Manageable with Routine
A lot of people worry that Maine Coons are high-maintenance because of their long fur. The truth? Most American Maine Coons have a silky coat that doesn’t mat as quickly as some other long-haired breeds. A few brushing sessions each week usually keep it looking beautiful.
However, some European Maine Coons are bred with a fluffier, cotton-like coat. This type of fur is much more prone to tangles and requires more frequent grooming. For first-time owners, it’s helpful to understand these differences when deciding which line fits your lifestyle best. (Learn more about American vs. European Maine Coons)
Like every purebred cat, Maine Coons have a few health risks, especially hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia. The best way to protect yourself as a first-time owner is to work with a responsible breeder who does genetic testing and regular health screenings.
This way, you start off with the peace of mind that your kitten has been given the best possible chance at a long, healthy life.
Maine Coons are surprisingly trainable. Many learn tricks like “fetch,” walking on a leash, or even playing in water. For beginners, this can be a lot of fun—you’re not just raising a cat, you’re making a smart, interactive companion.
They also tend to adapt well to families with kids, dogs, or other cats. For someone new to cat ownership, that flexibility is a huge plus.
Yes—if you’re ready for a big, affectionate, social cat that loves to be part of your life. Maine Coons are forgiving of beginner mistakes, quick to bond with people, and full of character.
If what you’re looking for in your first cat is a quiet little roommate that stays in the corner, a Maine Coon might not be for you. But if you want a pet who acts more like a family member—one who greets you at the door, curls up at your feet, and sometimes insists on “helping” with Zoom calls—then a Maine Coon could be the perfect first choice.
Choosing your first cat is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why at LMCoonCattery, we focus on raising healthy, well-socialized Maine Coon kittens that are a joy to live with, whether you’re brand new to cats or already have a house full of pets.
We love helping families find the right match. If you’re curious, you can browse our available kittens, check out our adoption process, or simply contact us to learn more. Your perfect Maine Coon might be waiting for you right now.
