How to Choose a Maine Coon Breeder: A Comprehensive Guide

Maine Coon cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, known for their large size, tufted ears, and friendly personalities. However, finding a genuine Maine Coon breeder can be a challenging task. This blog post aims to guide you through the process of finding a reputable breeder, avoiding scams, and ensuring that your future furry friend is healthy and well-bred.

Understanding Maine Coon Cats

Before you start your search for a Maine Coon breeder, it's important to understand the breed itself. Maine Coons are known for their large size, with males typically weighing between 13-18 pounds and females between 8-12 pounds. They have long, bushy tails and tufted ears, which give them a distinctive appearance. Their personalities are often described as friendly, playful, and intelligent.

Researching Breeders

Start by researching breeders online. Look for a breeder registered with a reputable cat association such as the International Cat Association (TICA) or the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA). These organizations have strict standards for breeders, requiring them to adhere to specific breeding practices and ethical codes. But please remember! Not being registered with these associations means he/she is a good breeder. If he/she is not registered with these associations, then he/she is definitely not a good breeder.

Talk to the Breeder

When you've identified a potential Maine Coon breeder, it's important to have a conversation with them. This can be over the phone, through email, or in person. During this conversation, you should get a sense of their knowledge and passion for the breed. They should be able to answer your questions thoroughly and show a deep understanding of Maine Coon cats.

Ask the Right Questions

Asking the right questions is crucial when choosing a Maine Coon breeder. Here are some questions you might consider:

1. How long have you been breeding Maine Coon cats?

2. Are your cats registered with a cat association?

3. Can I visit your cattery to meet the kittens and their parents? (Please note that since the beginning of the epidemic, more than 50% of breeders no longer allow people to visit. This is normal and is to protect the kittens and their families. If you are really worried about whether the other party is a scammer, please make an appointment with Breeder for a Video Call. 90% of real catteries will agree to this)

4. What health tests do you perform on your breeding cats?

5. What is your policy on vaccinations and deworming?

6. Do you provide a health guarantee for your kittens?

7.Do you have a contract regarding the kittens?

Remember, a reputable breeder will welcome these questions and answer them honestly and thoroughly.

Avoid Scams and How to Identify Fake Catteries

Unfortunately, there are scams out there that prey on people looking for Maine Coon kittens for sale. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

1. Price: If the price seems too good to be true, e.g. $500-$1300, then it is 100% fake. Purebred Maine Coon kittens are usually priced between 2400 USD to 4500 USD, depending on Breeder's decision.

2. Communication: Be wary of breeders who only communicate through email or text and refuse to talk on the phone or meet in person.

3. Payment: Scammers often ask for payment through untraceable methods like wire transfers.

4. Pressure: If the breeder is pressuring you to make a quick decision or pay a deposit without seeing the kitten, this is a red flag.

Always do your research and trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it's better to walk away.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a Maine Coon breeder is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By doing thorough research, asking the right questions, and being aware of potential scams, you can find a reputable breeder who will provide you with a healthy and well-bred Maine Coon kitten. Remember, the wait for the perfect kitten is worth it in the end.