Maine coon health
Maine coon cats tend to do well in a family with children as long as the kids are old enough to treat the cat with respect. They are known to put up with playing dress-up if they are treated right.
Common Health Problems
A Maine coon cat should receive the usual vaccinations and preventative veterinary treatments as any domestic cat. There are a few conditions that they are more prone to:
Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: This is an inherited condition of an enlarged heart that may lead to heart failure and blood clots.
Spinal muscular atrophy: An inherited condition leading to muscle atrophy and weakness
Hip dysplasia: a genetic condition where the hip socket and ball do not fit right or are misaligned.
In addition, Maine coon cats were known in New England for having extra toes. This polydactylism is considered a defect for show cats, but it does not affect their health.
Diet and Nutrition
Maine coon cats do not need any special diet other than the usual food that goes for all cats. The majority of experts opine that choosing either dry food or wet food is a matter of preference, but feeding some of both kinds might strike the right balance. Maine coon cats take longer to reach maturity, so they should stay on kitten food until they are 9 months old. Be sure to note whether your cat is getting overweight, because it might impact their wellbeing and overall lifespan. Discuss any nutritional needs with your veterinarian to get recommendations.
