How Long Do Maine Coon Cats Live? A Deep Dive into the Gentle Giant’s Lifespan

Have you ever wondered how long a great Maine Coon cat can be part of your life? 

Maine Coon cats are well recognized for their size, their friendliness, and their wild appearance. However, if you are about to adopt a Maine Coon, or currently have one in your life, you are certainly wondering: How Long Do Maine Coon Cats Live? 

Many sources say Maine Coons live from 10-13 years which is pretty normal. However, with proper care, good genetics, balanced diet, regular exercise and vet visits, some Maine Coons have been known to live into their late teens, and on rare occasions, their twenties.

Let’s explore every angle of this question, using verifiable facts, stories, and actionable advice you can apply every day. 

The Record Breaker: Meet Rubble, the 31-Year-Old Maine Coon

Imagine if your cat lived to be 31. Seriously. That’s not a mistake. Rubble, a Maine Coon from the UK, was in the news when he reached the absolutely astounding age of 31 – more than three times the typical lifespan for that breed. 

It’s enough to make every Maine Coon owner think, is my cat capable of this too? 

Before you start planning your cat’s 30th birthday, let’s put this into perspective. Rubble is an anomalous outlier. 

Nevertheless, his story, and more importantly, what it represents for all Maine Coons, is remarkable – as it sets the stage for a more thorough exploration of what actually determines a Maine Coon’s years of life.

How Long Do Maine Coon Cats Live? The Real Numbers

So, what’s the reality behind the legend?

• Average lifespan: Most Maine Coons live between 10 and 15 years[3].

• Median lifespan: Studies show a median of 12.5 years, with many reaching their late teens with proper care[3].

• Outliers: Some, like Rubble, have reached their 20s or even 30s, but this is exceedingly rare.

So, what can we conclude from this? While Maine Coons won’t compete with tortoises in the lifespan department, a cat can be your friend for a long time with proper care- over a decade or more! 

Common Maine Coon Lifespan Myths

Larger cats die younger: ❌

Not necessarily! While size can influence joint care, genetics and care are more important factors[1].

All purebreds are fragile: ❌

Maine Coons are one of the most hardy purebreds, particularly if responsibly bred.

Indoor life guarantees 20+ years: ❌

Living indoors can reduce risk, but does not guarantee a record lifespan.

Male Maine Coons die earlier: ✔️

Statistically male Maine Coons tend to have slightly shorter lifespans when compared to females, which is often due to male weight and hormone trends[2].

Genetics: The Good, The Bad, and The Unpredictable

Maine Coons have a healthy reputation, but they are not exempt from genetic land mines.

The big one?

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart condition in Maine Coons. Even with two “clear” parents, parents can produce kittens with HCM, owing to the complexities of how genetics work. 

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is another thing to be aware of, but it is now rare with breeders that screen responsibly. The key to remember is that no pedigree is perfect. Genetics loads the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger. 

This is where the emerging field of epigenetics comes in – as it demonstrates how nutrition and early-life experiences can actually turn on or off genetic “switches” which affect how and how quickly a Maine Coon ages.

Nutrition is the Key

Let’s get serious. What you feed your cat is very important. Maine Coons do best when they eat a diet of a minimum 45% protein and less than 10% carbs.

Sufficient taurine (important for your cat’s heart health) and omega-3s (important for joint and brain function) are non-negotiable[4].

Consider food as a daily medicine for your cat. The correct food, given with the correct balance, supports muscle structure, organ function, and an immune system that’s ready for everything.

Treats are fine, just make sure your cat’s primary food sources are species-appropriate.

Exercise: Why Maine Coons Should Get Off the Couch

Maine Coons are not just big; they are made for action. Regular play, climbing, and even walking on a leash could provide Maine Coons with exercise to build strength, cardiovascular fitness, and heart health. 

Research demonstrates that an active Maine Coon enjoys higher VO₂ max than similar inactive cousins who enjoy the couch more than exercise[5].

If you want a challenge, you may try to leash train your Maine Coon – you may be surprised by how they embrace the great outdoors (in an outdoor supervised environment).

Preventative Medicine: Your Maine Coons Lifespan

Being ahead of your problems often gives the advantage! Here is a quick cheat sheet for every life stage:

In-person vet visits and at-home checks can identify possible issues before they become life-ending emergencies.

Maine Coon vs. Other Giant Breeds

Let’s compare the Maine Coon to other gentle giants:

Also read: The Maine Coon Tabby Mix: Is it Right for You?

Indoor Vs. Outdoor: The Lifespan Calculator

Should I let my Maine Coon outside? This is for sure a point of contention! 

An indoor cat will avoid cars, toxins, and infectious illnesses, and will likely live a happier, longer life. 

• Indoor Cats: Live longer due to reduced exposure to accidents, infectious diseases, and toxins.

• Outdoor Cats: Face higher risks—traffic trauma, infectious disease, and toxin exposure can all trim years off a Maine Coon’s life.

Yet, managed outdoor time, whether in catteries or via supervision, can offer incredible benefits for your little lion, without exposing them to the same risks of injury or illness.

Use the interactive “Outdoor Hours/Week” slider to create lifestyle choices with your Maine Coon and how it impacts its expected lifespan.

[Source]

Lifestyle X-Factors No One Talks About

Household air quality: Scented candles, incense, and cooking oils can impact feline respiratory health over time.

Social enrichment: Maine Coons that are left alone for at least 6 hours in one time period are found to have higher cortisol levels, which is related to immune suppression and a shorter lifespan.

Dental hygiene: Periodontal disease is a silent thief of lifespan, and the main reason routine dental care is essential.

Can Maine Coons live to 30?

There are Maine Coons who have made it to 20 years and even 30. These cats almost always had:

✔️ Regular vet care.

✔️ Good food.

✔️ A safe, loving home.

The people who owned these cats typically reported that the secret was simply paying attention and loving their cat every day. 

Final Thoughts: Giving Your Maine Coon the Best Life

You can only control so much! But you can give your Maine Coon the best chance for a long, happy life. Feed them well, keep them active, see the vet, and fill their days with love and fun. With a little luck, your gentle giant will be beside you for many years to come.

Maine Coon Lifespan FAQ

How long do Maine Coon cats live?

Maine Coons generally live between 10-15 years, with some in their late teens. With exceptional care and some good genetics, a few will live beyond 20 years, although this is rare.

How often should I visit the vet?

At least once a year for healthy adults; more often for kittens or seniors.

What affects a Maine Coon’s lifespan?

Good genetics, a proper diet, exercise, and routine veterinary care are critical factors. A healthy nutrition plan includes an early start with health screenings, good nutrition, and ongoing care, which can help manage any issues, and promote a longer and healthier life for Maine Coon cats.

What health issues are common in Maine Coons?

Maine Coons are prone to heart disease (HCM), hip dysplasia and obesity. In addition, dental disease is very common. 

How can I help my Maine Coon live longer?

Ensuring they receive a balanced and healthy diet, exercise on a regular schedule, and see a vet every year for health checkups.

Keeping them inside will eliminate dangers. If a Maine Coon shows signs of disease, such as a noticeable change in habits or preferences, it would be prudent to take them to a vet. 

Are Maine Coons short-lived compared to other cats?

Maine Coons typically follow the lifespan of many other cat breeds and its life expectancy is 10 to 15 years. While some breeds live to an older age, Maine Coons, with good genetics and care, are as likely as any other large breed and mixed breed cat to experience a full life.