Why Do Maine Coons Cost So Much?

Why Do Maine Coons Cost So Much?

Many would-be owners are eager to take a Maine Coon home with them, but many are puzzled by the breed's high price. when people actually start looking at the cost of this well-known cat.

Many would-be owners are eager to take a Maine Coon home with them, but many are puzzled by the breed's high price. when people actually start looking at the cost of this well-known cat.

The cost of breeding and raising healthy Maine Coon kittens is the major factor contributing to the high price of Maine Coon cats. In order for the breeders to profit, they must charge high prices for these cats. The Maine Coon is a very popular cat, and because of the great demand and scarcity, prices have gone up.

Unfortunately, Maine Coon cats are not exactly inexpensive, but their owners will tell you they are well worth the cost!

There are a few other places you may obtain Maine Coons for less money, despite the fact that buying a Maine Coon Cat from a breeder is a costly venture. The cost of getting a Maine Coon isn't usually the highest, though. Discover why this breed is still pricey after purchasing one from a breeder by reading on!

Why Do Maine Coons Cost So Much?

Many prospective Maine Coon owners are thrilled to get their first cat but are shocked to learn exactly how pricey they can be after doing so.

Many individuals believe that breeders only sell Maine Coons for a significant profit. Maine Coon Cats are, nevertheless, quite pricey for a variety of reasons.

Supply and Demand:

The Maine Coon is quickly rising to the top of the list of cat breeds worldwide! These gentle giants are in high demand. Sadly, there aren't many high-quality Maine Coon kittens available. A female cat can only have so many kittens at once, and cat breeding takes time. Due of the strong demand and limited supply, prices inevitably increase. Cost of Reproduction: The cost of breeding the Maine Coon is likely the main reason for its high price. To ensure that their kittens are strong and prepared to enter a permanent home, good breeders invest a lot of money. We'll talk more about the costs of breeding later.

The High-Quality Service Offered By Breeders:

Owning a Maine Coon Cat is a privilege. These are considerably different from the typical domestic cat and are high-quality cats. They not only adhere to a strict set of physical requirements, but are also renowned for their extraordinarily sharp minds and kind personalities. Breeders should be compensated handsomely for the time and effort they invest in rearing healthy, attractive kittens.

Costs of Maine Coon Breeders

As was already noted, the high cost of breeding and raising Maine Coons is one of the factors contributing to their high price. In what ways are Maine Coons bred and raised?

The following expenses that breeders must bear during the breeding process are listed (sources 1, 2):

Hereditary testing:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, spinal muscular atrophy, and erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency are among the genetic health issues that Maine Coons are predisposed to. In order to ascertain whether or whether breeding cats may transmit any of these illnesses to their young, breeders must pay for tests. When you consider all the possible genetic problems a Maine Coon may have, the expense of each test, which averages around $50, quickly mounts up!

Stud Charge:

A male cat may be pricey enough on its own, so some breeders will decide to buy and retain one. You must pay an additional breeding charge, often approximately $2,000, when buying a cat specifically for breeding. Instead, many breeders opt to "hire" a superior stud, frequently a show cat, to mate with their female. Of course, paying a stud fee is expensive as well!

Buying A Cat For Breeding:

Breeders will also require a queen, which will cost around $4,000 for a superior cat with a solid pedigree in addition to a breeding fee.

High-Quality Food:

Because of their size and ferocious appetite, Maine Coon Cats need specialized diets. Low-quality food, which is frequently packed with grains and other filler calories, cannot support the growth of these cats. In contrast, Maine Coons need meals rich in protein. The breeders must purchase premium food for both their breeding cats and their weaned kittens.

Vaccinations:

Additionally, breeders must immunize all of their kittens as well as their breeding cats. Kittens need many injections, which may get expensive when you have to vaccinate a whole litter numerous times!

Vet Visits:

A reputable breeder constantly prioritizes the welfare of their kittens and cats. All kittens will thus require several visits to the veterinarian to guarantee optimal growth. Due to the immaturity of their bodies and immune systems, kittens are renowned for being delicate. Breeders are in charge of caring for them during their first few weeks of life since they are susceptible to contracting infections and other ailments as they grow.

Fees for Kitten Registration:

Additionally, respected organizations like the CFA, TICA, or others register good breeders. Each kitten must also pay a registration fee to be recognized as having a legitimate pedigree.

Microchips:

Microchips are a crucial component of ensuring that your cat can be delivered to you in good condition. Veterinarians and humane societies can check your cat's microchip to restore it to its rightful owner if it ever runs away or even gets stolen. A microchip implant for a kitten normally costs $50.

Neutering Or Spaying:

Breeders are increasingly often spaying or neutering their kittens before delivering them to their future home. Each kitten's surgery might cost up to $200!

Good living circumstances

Breeders work hard to keep their cats and kittens in sanitary and compassionate environments. Queens who are pregnant or nursing need a cozy, safe environment. For stud cats, who tend to spray because they are not neutered, some breeders even need to construct separate rooms.

Paperwork and supporting evidence:

Breeders must also give new owners the necessary papers and evidence proving that their cat is registered with a cat enthusiast group. Family trees may occasionally be a part of this.

Pregnant Cats' Medical Care:

Queens who are expecting or nursing need frequent checks since they are vulnerable to several different issues. Additionally, these cats need additional attention when they are lactating and pregnant.

Emergency Services:

Breeders should be ready to cover any necessary emergency medical expenses. Kittens must pay veterinary bills if they suffer severe illnesses or injuries. If something goes wrong during the pregnancy, they could even have to pay for emergency C-sections! Deworming: When kittens are young, they all need to be dewormed numerous times, which not only costs money but also requires time and patience.

Games and Learning:

Maine Coons are very clever and lively cats who require a lot of attention to keep happy. Breeders should provide their cats and kittens durable toys and secure areas to explore.

Time:

Last but not least, breeders devote a lot of time and effort to raising Maine Coon Cats and their offspring. Breeders of Maine Coons may need to stay up late to properly care for their kittens and queens, so it's not your normal 9 to 5 profession. Breeding takes a lot of time, money, and emotional effort in addition to other things.

What Are the Prices of Maine Coons?

You must determine whether you can even afford a Maine Coon before deciding to bring one home. It goes without saying that Maine Coons vary widely based on the breeder, age, and a variety of other characteristics.

The various Maine Coon Cat expenses are broken out as follows:

From a Breeder Kittens:

The majority of buyers choose to get their Maine Coon kitten from a breeder. Many new owners place a great deal of value on being able to observe their cat develop from an early age. They also give you the option of naming your cat on your own, which is an extra bonus. However, kittens often cost between $600 and $1,500, making them more expensive than adult cats.

Cats As Adults From A Breeder:

Due to the fact that they have already been named and trained, adult cats are usually a little less expensive than kittens. An adult Maine Coon can usually be bought from a breeder for $400 to $600.

Age:

Age has an impact on the price of a Maine Coon as well. Because they are so sought, kittens are more costly. After all, a kitten's new owners will get to decide its name and get to see it develop into an adult. Senior cats may be much less costly than adult cats, especially if they have health issues. Adult cats will cost somewhat less.

Health:

Cost greatly depends on the condition of a Maine Coon. While a breeder will demand full price for a Maine Coon Cat that is in excellent condition, not every kitten is born that way. Breeders will discount the cost of a cat if it has a genetic disease, is blind, deaf, or has a permanent injury or disability.

Pattern And Color:

The color and design of a Maine Coon can also determine its cost. Standard black or brown tabbies are much less expensive than a rare silver or gold smoke Maine Coon.

Maine Coon kittens on sale

You may have come across web adverts for Maine Coon kittens being sold at a low price and been enticed to buy one. However, keep in mind that doing this is a very unsafe thing to undertake.

Backyard breeders are those who just have financial gain as their driving force. They frequently decide against giving their cats good care, nutritious food, or even decent living circumstances! These folks frequently misrepresent mixed Maine Coons as pure-blooded in order to make quick money.

You might be able to get away with buying a mixed Maine Coon if your main priorities are a loving and clever cat. However, bear in mind that a kitten you purchase from a backyard breeder may have a number of health issues.

In general, purchasing a kitten on the cheap is a dangerous decision, but if you're ready to do it, you could be lucky!

Where Am I Able To Purchase A Maine Coon Cat?

You might first believe that the only method to bring home a cat of this breed is to buy a Maine Coon from a reputable breeder. But there are actually a lot of options to consider!

Here are the several ways to obtain a Maine Coon cat, along with the benefits and drawbacks of each. 

A Trustworthy Breeder:

The most dependable place to get a Maine Coon Cat is through a reputable breeder. Your Maine Coon will be documented as being purebred, and you will be aware that it was well-cared for and is unlikely to have any health issues. But this is also the most pricey choice.

An in-home breeder:

The most dangerous way to get a Maine Coon Cat is through backyard breeders. In addition to giving their cats less attention and care, these breeders are frequently dishonest and attempt to pass off mixed Maine Coons as purebreds. However, this is a cheaper option, and some owners have found luck this way.

Coon cat rescue in Maine:

As was already said, there are quite a few organizations that specialize in rescuing Maine Coon Cats. A Maine Coon could be available through one of these rescues if you're fortunate enough to live close by or are prepared to travel a distance.

Regional Shelter:

Every week, millions of cats enter shelters; while rare, Maine Coons occasionally make the cut. You may just keep a watchful check on your neighborhood shelters till you discover a Maine Coon Cat if you have the patience to wait! Sadly, it's challenging to locate kittens in this manner, and there's no assurance that your Maine Coon will be a purebred.

Local And Online Communities:

You may also search online for people in your neighborhood and on Facebook who are wanting to rehome Maine Coon kittens. Despite being rare, you could be fortunate and locate a juvenile Maine Coon for a reasonable price! Even while this is one of the more affordable alternatives, it is also less trustworthy because there is no way to be certain whether or not your Maine Coon is a purebred.

How Much Do Kitten Maine Coons Cost?

Although many owners would rather adopt a kitten than an adult cat, it's important to remember that kittens are really far more expensive. In addition to charging more for kittens, breeders and shelters also incur more costs.

Vaccinations and deworming will be more necessary for young kittens. They also need more toys and enrichment materials!

In addition, raising kittens requires more time and effort since you have to educate them not to chew on wires, climb on the table, or steal your food.

Where Can I Get Free Maine Coon Kittens?

Finding a Maine Coon kitten for free can seem difficult, but if you're persistent and diligent, you can accomplish it!

Find people selling Maine Coon kittens online, particularly on Facebook and Craigslist. Maintain your involvement in your neighborhood; you might even want to think about placing an advertisement in the newspaper.

Some folks have unwanted litters and are seeking for free ways to get rid of the kittens! Keep in mind, too, that here is where you're more likely to see mixed-breed Maine Coons than pure-bred ones.

Rescue of Maine Coon Cats

Unexpectedly, Maine Coon Cat rescues are another place to get affordable Maine Coon kitties. Even though it's uncommon, some individuals have created whole organizations to help Maine Coons find their permanent homes!

Check online to discover if your area has any Maine Coon Cat rescues.

Are Maine Coons a Good Investment?

Many individuals start to question whether purchasing a Maine Coon is actually worthwhile. After all, any other cat in a shelter may be purchased for less than $200. But ultimately, the majority of Maine Coon owners concur that this breed is priceless!

The disposition of the Maine Coon cat is among its best qualities. Many of these bright cats will play fetch, pick up new skills, and even learn how to use a leash and harness to walk! Maine Coons are renowned for being friendly and gentle animals.

Overall, Maine Coons are an unbeatable breed, and if you're seeking for a cat that will provide devoted company for the whole of their life, they're well worth $5,000 to $2,500!

The Price Of A Maine Coon Cat

Unfortunately, there are a lot more expenses associated with owning a Maine Coon Cat than just the initial cost of purchasing one from a breeder.

One-time expenses:

Carrying a cat

Description:

You should budget between $40 and $60 since Maine Coon Cats need big, durable carriers for travel.

One-time expenses:

Litter Bin

Description:

For your Maine Coon, you'll need at least one litter tray, which will cost $15 to $30.

One-time expenses:

Scratchings Post

Description:

In order to give enrichment and aid in removing the dead sheath of their growing nails, Maine Coons also need a scratching post.

A big scratching post should cost no more than $50.

One-time expenses:

Groomings Brushes

Description:

The long, dense fur of the Maine Coon has to be brushed frequently. A quality brush set should cost about $30.

One-time expenses:

Cat Tree

Description:

Maine Coons demand larger cat trees than the norm, which results in higher costs.

Your Maine Coon cat tree will probably cost between $200 and $400 if it is the right size.

Costs of Maine Coon Accessories

Check out my suggestions below if you're unsure where to acquire the greatest Maine Coon product:

Carrying a cat

The enormous dimensions of your Maine Coon cat are suitable for this extra-large cat carrier (link to Amazon website). Just be certain to purchase the extra-large cat carrier!

A Litter Box:

These extra large cat litter trays are my favorite brand and are made specifically for Maine Coon cats.

Observation Post:

Personally, I adore this substantial scratching post available on Amazon. It's the nicest cat scratching post I've ever bought for our Maine Coon cat since it's so big and durable.

Vanity Brushes:

I've essentially used every grooming brush available. These are my top 5 favorite grooming tools since they've been the best at getting our Maine Coons' long, thick hair to behave.

Kitten Tree:

These extra-large cat trees have my complete and utter attention!

b) Maine Coon Costs that Recur

Vaccinations and veterinary examinations:

About $200 per year will probably be required for exams and immunizations.

Insurance:

You'll need to pay pet insurance, which can cost anywhere between $180 and $500 annually, if you want to make sure you can afford emergency care should the unthinkable happen.

High-Quality Food:

High-quality cat food is necessary for Maine Coons, which often costs $50 to $70 a month. To learn more about the top five Maine Coon cat foods for your beloved gentle giant, click this link.

Litter:

The usual monthly cost of cat litter is $40. This kitty litter, which is available on Amazon, is perfect for the task.

Toys:

Maine Coons are large and play rough, so they need toys that are sturdy, durable, and expensive. Additionally, it's crucial to give your Maine Coon fresh toys to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. These are my favorite Maine Coon cat toys since they are durable, well-made, and affordable.

Which Cat Breeds Are The Most Expensive?

Although the Maine Coon is reputed to be one of the most costly cat breeds, it is by no means the most expensive.

Here is a list of the world's priciest cat breeds (source 1):

Ashera:

An extremely uncommon cat breed known as the Ashera is a cross between a domestic cat, an Asian leopard, and an African Serval. These cats may cost up to $125,000 and require a lot of maintenance. This breed and others like it, however, are quite controversial since they are half-wild and need more enrichment than humans can adequately offer.

Savannah:

Another rare and pricey cat species that may cost up to $50,000 is the Savannah. These incredibly sought-after felines are a hybrid of the Persian cat and the African Serval.

Bengal:

The Bengal cat, which is a hybrid of a domestic cat and an Asian leopard, is yet another extremely unusual creature. Each Bengal cat may cost up to $25k!

Toyger:

The Toyger is a hybrid of a domestic cat and a Bengal, making it simpler to care for while yet maintaining those lovely, wild-looking rosettes. They typically cost $5,000 or less. This is a fantastic technique to achieve the stunning appearance of a wild cat while also taking better care of it.

Persian:

The Persian cat is a pricey and exquisite breed that ranges in price from $1,500 to $3,000. Their strikingly flat features, long, silky hair, and placid demeanor are all well-known characteristics. However, keep in mind that those flat faces might lead to additional health issues, including breathing difficulties.

Conclusion

When you consider how much these cats cost, it's simple to wonder "Why are Maine Coons so expensive?". But because breeders invest a lot of time, money, and effort in producing superior Maine Coons, a price between $500 and $2,500 is very realistic.

However, if you'd want to bring a Maine Coon home without breaking the budget, you may also search online, in your neighborhood, or even at shelters for a less expensive Maine Coon cat!

Related Issues Do Maine Coons Live a Long Life?

The breed known as the Maine Coon Cat is well renowned for having a long lifespan. A Maine Coon lives between 12 and 15 years on average.

What Is The Weight Of A Maine Coon Cat?

The biggest domestic cat breed in the world, Maine Coons may weigh between 10 and 25 pounds.

England Coon Cat Price

A Maine Coon cat typically costs between £750 and $1,000 in the UK.

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