Once you look into the eyes of a Maine Coon, you’d realize they are unique. But, when you start looking to find your own Maine Coon kitten and see the price, you may wonder, why does Maine Coon cost so much?
The price can catch some people off guard, but behind that price is a passion, dedication, and a promise of a lifelong friend.
For many, bringing a Maine Coon home isn’t just simply adding a pet to your household, it’s adding a loyal friend to the family, one that will curl up next to you on a hard day, one that will chirp when you get home each day, and one that will fill your house with love and laughter.
The price isn’t just a number to the breeders, it’s a commitment in time, energy, love, and care during the first 12 weeks of life, making sure each Maine Coon kitten is not only healthy, but happy and ready to find their new best friend.
So, as we explore why Maine Coon costs so expensive, let’s look beyond the price tag and discover the true value these gentle giants bring into our lives.
1. The True Cost And What It Covers
When you first look up why Maine Coon costs so much, you’ll see many numbers all over the place.
A purebred Maine Coon kitten can cost anywhere from $1500 to $5000, or more if you want a rare color or want a cat from championship lineage!
That’s a lot for a cat! And, of course, it’s not only about looks or size.
Breeders put in a lot of time and money before we ever see our kittens!
The breeder is footing the bill for health checks, genetic testing, the best food possible, and other expenses, if the mom cat has to undergo expensive surgery, such as a C-section, that can cost thousands of dollars!
If you’re working with a breeder who is doing it right, they are ensuring the kitten is healthy, socialized, and is going to have the happiest life!
The breeder will spend so much on the care and testing that they might only break even, especially if the litter size isn’t large.
Quick Poll: What surprised you the most about why Maine Coon cost so much?
- Health care
- Breeder effort
Popularity and Demand
Maine Coons are an incredibly popular cat breed and one of the most recognizable feline breeds in the world, with a distinct look and a mostly friendly, tolerant personality.
This overwhelming popularity means that there will usually be many more people wishing to acquire a Maine Coon kitten than there are cats available to satisfy demand.
When demand outweighs supply, the price increases, and that is one of the primary reasons for the cost of Maine Coons.
2. The Emotional ROI
Let’s be honest—no one buys a Maine Coon because they want a fancy cat. People fall in love with Maine Coons for their personalities. They are very gentle, playful cats, often more dog-like than cat-like.
They will follow you from room to room, they will chirp and trill when they are happy, they want to be included in the family.
When considering the cost of Maine Coons, just remember that you are really not buying a pet, you are adding a new friend for life.
Many owners will say that their Maine Coon has given them laughter and comfort, and companionship, that they could not put a price on.
High Acquisition Costs
Becoming a Maine Coon breeder is an expensive undertaking. Most breeders are investing in a high-quality, pedigree breeding cat, which can cost thousands of dollars for each cat.
In addition, the breeder has to pay for licenses and certifications as well as possibly import costs from other countries for better breeding lines. All these costs work their way down to the price of a kitten.
I want to hear your story: If you already have a Maine Coon, what do you love the most about them? Let us know in the comments below!
3. The Lifestyle Change
A Maine Coon is not just a cat; it is a lifestyle change. Maine Coons are big, fun, and mighty creatures that will turn your living room into a play zone and your quiet evenings into cuddle sessions.
Maine Coons are also incredibly loving cats, with many greeting you at the door and even engaging with tricks.
However, owning a Maine Coon means you will need to change your habits. You will need larger litter boxes, the biggest and sturdiest scratching posts, and plenty of toys to keep them occupied.
Most Maine Coon owners express that it is worth every effort for the happiness and enjoyment they bring.
Premium Diets
Maine Coons require a premium diet so that their size and health can be maintained. The Maine Coon breeders feed their cats high-quality food, often with supplements to supplement their maintainable coats, strong bones, and proper growth developments.
This is not just ordinary cat chow. Quality feed for Maine Coons has to cost more, and consequently, it all adds up over a period of time.
Veterinary Care
Health remains a great priority for responsible breeders. Maine Coons can inherit certain genetic conditions, and breeders pay a lot for health screenings, vaccinations, checking in with their veterinarians, and incidental vet bills.
Some breeders will even guarantee their kittens, meaning they have to be really careful and consistent with everything that they do health-wise. Medical support in the end can be your parents’ costs when buying a Maine Coon.
Take our quiz: Is the Maine Coon for your lifestyle? (Are you ready for big paws, big purrs, and even bigger personalities?)
RELATED POSTS:
How Well Do Maine Coons Get Along with Dogs
Maine Coon Colors and Patterns
Bad Things About Maine Coon Cats
4. The Social Factor
Another thing that many people don’t expect when they inquire as to why Maine Coons cost so much, is the community that comes along with them. Maine Coon owners tend to enjoy networking, sharing stories, and meeting/taking their cats for playdates, as well as shows.
Online groups, local clubs, and even photo contests exist just for Maine Coon enthusiasts.
Owning a Maine Coon cat creates a whole new universe of friendships and fun. You will always have someone to share stories with and someone to ask for advice.
Resource List: Check out these Maine Coon clubs and online groups to find your tribe!
5. The Challenges-And Why They’re Worth It
Maine Coons are not for everyone. They require regular grooming to keep their long coats from matting. They eat a lot, require sufficient space to run and play, and like all pets, they can have health issues that warrant extra vet visits.
Together, these challenges make Maine Coons so costly both up-front and in the long-run.
But for those who are prepared for the challenges, they are very rewarding. A loving, loyal companion who will be loyal to you for many years is well worth the effort.
Before you begin the process of bringing a Maine Coon into your family, ensure that you are ready for the commitment.
Checklist: Are you ready for a Maine Coon?
- Room for a big cat
- Time for play and grooming
- Budget for food and vet care
- Tolerance for a little chaos
Conclusion
While contemplating why Maine Coons are so expensive, it is easy to get distracted by the price. The real value comes from the bond you build, the joy and laughter they bring, and the memories you will make together.
For many, bringing a Maine coon into their lives is the best decision they have ever made!
