Maine Coon cats are well known for their size, shaggy coats, and gentle personalities. But many colors exist among the Maine Coons and even the orange Maine Coon (more accurately, the “red” Maine Coon) is a standout. Some people think they are rare, while others think they are just hard to find.
So, what is the truth?
Are orange Maine Coon cats rare?
And where can you find one?
Let’s jump right into the orange Maine Coon world and get to the facts.
What Exactly Is an Orange Maine Coon?
An orange Maine Coon is a color variation of the Maine Coon breed, and is distinctive for its ginger-like coat and large size.
Even though they are called “orange” Maine Coons, the official classification by cat associations treat them as red Maine Coons.
Key Features
- Solid red: This is a deep, solid orange.
- Red tabby: This is the most common, red/tan with stripes or swirls.
- Red smoke: This is a lighter orange, almost faded with a white undercoat.
- Red and white: This is a mix of orange and white patches.
- Tabby Markings: All orange Maine Coons have some sort of tabby pattern due to genetics, but some have far less visible markings.
Regardless of color and pattern, they are typically tabbies in some form because of genetics.
What Makes an Orange Maine Coon?
The Science of the Orange Coat
The orange color is often referred to as “red” by experts in cats, but you will see everything from deep ginger to cream. The orange color is a gene located on the X chromosome, which is part of the reason that about 80% of orange Maine Coons are male.
Females would require a special mix of genes from both parents to produce the orange, so they are rarer than males[1].
Orange vs. Other Colors
It is well known that all Maine Coons are generally friendly; however, several owners of orange Maine Coons say that they are the friendliest and most cuddly.
Orange Maine Coons tend to be laid-back, social, and don’t mind being around people and other pets.
Are Orange Maine Coons Cats Rare?
Not really! They might not be the usual choice, but they’re still not very uncommon.
There are over 75 colors that the Maine Coon breed is recognized in and red is one of them. Brown tabby, black and silver Maine Coons are the most common.
Orange Maine Coons are not the rarest colors, but they are less commonly bred than the other colors.
Why Do People Think They’re Rare?
Even though orange Maine Coons are not the rarest color in the breed, their genetics and the fact that most orange cats are male can make them look rare to many people.
Also, breeders often give priority to more in-demand colors such as brown tabby and silver. Because orange Maine Coons are so popular, they are even more difficult to find in shelters.
Plus, the way that they are strikingly gorgeous adds to the feeling of rarity.
Are Female Orange Maine Coons Rare?
Yes, female orange Maine Coon cats are significantly rarer than males. In Maine Coons, up to 80% of the breed are orange males, only 20% are orange females (the remaining 80% to make up the population are not color related)[2].
This rarity is due to the genetic requirement that both the mother and the father must contribute the orange gene for a female kitten to be orange, while only one parent needs to contribute it for a male kitten.
Do Orange Maine Coons Have Unique Personalities?
No research has shown that orange Maine Coons are any different in personality from other colors of Maine Coons. However, a lot of people who own cats or are enthusiasts think that orange cats are usually more social, affectionate, and playful.
What Do Owners Say About Them?
- Many owners say that their orange Maine Coons are especially friendly and enjoy being around people.
- They are usually considered to be loud and noticeable compared to other colors.
- Some believe they have a mischievous streak, making them more playful and adventurous.
Typical Maine Coon Personality Traits (Regardless of Color)
- Affectionate but independent.
- Intelligent and easy to train.
- Playful and good with kids and other pets.
- Gentle giants – despite their large size, they are known for their sweet nature.
Many owners believe they are extra social and playful. However, the behavior is more influenced by individual temperament and upbringing than by their coat color.
Where Can You Find an Orange Maine Coon?
1. Reputable Breeders
- A lot of breeders focus on Maine Coons and could have orange (red) kittens for sale.
- Try to find breeders who are registered with The International Cat Association (TICA) or The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).
- Expect to pay anywhere from $1000 to $5,000, depending on pedigree and breeder reputation.
2. Rescue Shelters & Adoption Centers
- Maine Coons may be found in shelters, but it could take some time to find an orange one.
- Look into Maine Coon Rescue or Petfinder to find a Maine Coon cat.
- Typically, adoption fees are not as high as the prices for pets bought from breeders.
Note: The International Cat Association (TICA) website lists numerous Maine Coon breeders across the US, including those in Kentucky, Louisiana, and Maine, where you can find breeders that may have orange Maine Coons[3].
Final Thoughts
If you want an orange Maine Coon, make sure to get one from a trusted breeder who can show you the cat’s family tree.
So, are orange Maine Coon cats rare? No, they are not as common as other colors. Orange Maine Coons are eye-catching and fun, but it’s the rare orange females that are truly hard to find.
Because of their unique coats, amiable personalities, and long history, cat lovers often choose them.
References:
- https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/05/what-makes-orange-cats-orange-genetic-mutation-research
- https://www.rapsbc.com/2023/07/no-not-all-orange-cats-are-male-but-most-are/
- https://tica.org/browse-all-breeders/
