Maine Coon Prices on the Rise Amidst COVID

In 2023, the Maine Coon Price, for kittens have experienced an increase, influenced by the impact of the COVID pandemic on various aspects of cat breeding and care. If you are considering adopting a CFA-registered Maine Coon kitten from health-tested parents, be prepared to invest between $2,000 to $10,000. The average price for such kittens is approximately $3,000. However, the final cost depends on several factors, which we will explore in detail throughout this article.

Factors Driving the Price Increase

The COVID pandemic has led to rising costs across various aspects of breeding and raising Maine Coon kittens. From increased expenses for food, grooming, and veterinary care to higher costs for importing and other necessities, breeders now face significant financial challenges. As a result, the prices of kittens may have gone up to reflect these additional costs. Additionally, the price can be influenced by how closely a kitten resembles the ideal Maine Coon specimen and the level of effort the breeder has invested in raising such a cat. Breeding and raising healthy Maine Coon kittens can be an expensive endeavour, further contributing to the overall price increase.

The Significance of a Reputable Breeder

When considering bringing a Maine Coon kitten into your home, it is crucial to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the well-being of their cats and adheres to ethical breeding practices. A reputable breeder will:

  1. Microchip the Kitten: By microchipping the kitten, they ensure that if the kitten ever gets lost, it can be easily identified and returned to its rightful home.
  2. Provide Safety Net for Kittens: Reputable breeders willingly take back a kitten if the need arises, providing a safety net for the cat in case it becomes homeless or the adoptive family can no longer care for it.
  3. Offer Age-Appropriate Shots: Ensuring the kitten receives age-appropriate vaccinations is vital for its health and well-being.
  4. Implement Parasite Prevention: Parasite prevention measures help keep the kitten free from common pests and ensure its optimal health.
  5. Spay & Neuter Kittens: Responsible breeders spay or neuter kittens before placement to prevent potential health issues and accidental litters.
  6. Keep Kittens for at Least 12 Weeks: Following the ethical guidelines set by both CFA and TICA, reputable breeders keep kittens until they are at least 12 weeks old. This ensures the kitten is emotionally and physically ready to transition to its new home. Allowing a kitten to leave younger can compromise its emotional well-being and immune system for its entire life.

Maine Coon Price

Verifying the Breeder’s Credentials

It is essential to verify that the breeder is registered with reputable organizations like CFA or TICA. You can do this by:

  • Asking for their cattery numbers to confirm their registration.
  • Requesting a verification listing through TICA.org, which can only be obtained by a registered TICA member with a signed code of ethics.

Unfortunately, many potential kitten owners may not be aware of what to look for in a breeder and fall victim to scams or fraudulent websites offering cheap-priced kittens from supposed reputable breeders. Always exercise caution and NEVER assume that you are buying a Maine Coon kitten for a low price of $500-$1000.

Navigating the Breeder’s Website

The breeder’s website serves as a valuable source of information. Ensure that the website:

  • Is easy to navigate and user-friendly.
  • Educates visitors about the Maine Coon breed, its characteristics, and care requirements.
  • Provides insights into the breeder’s program and their approach to breeding.
  • Features pictures of available kittens, allowing potential adopters to see their potential future feline companions.

Health Testing of Parents

An important aspect to consider is whether the breeder conducts essential DNA testing for conditions such as HCM, SMA, and PKD mutations. It is also crucial to inquire about testing for other disorders that Maine Coons may be susceptible to, including blood disorders, cardiac disorders, and metabolic disorders, among others. Health testing of parents is critical to ensuring the health and well-being of the kittens.

Are the Kittens Registered?

Reputable breeders register each litter, providing buyers with proper registration paperwork and numbers. Be cautious of breeders who claim not to “deal with paperwork” or produce kittens without usable registration papers. Such breeders may not have followed the necessary protocols or may have ignored a legal contract they agreed to uphold. It costs a breeder a nominal fee of $10 to register a litter of kittens with TICA or CFA, making it a standard practice for reputable breeders.

 

Adopting a Maine Coon kitten is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and research. Understanding the factors that influence the price and selecting a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their cats are vital steps in welcoming a happy and healthy Maine Coon companion into your home. Remember that while retired cats or cats with special needs may cost less than the average price, the qualities of a reputable breeder mentioned above should still be present. Choose wisely and embark on a wonderful journey of companionship with your extraordinary Maine Coon feline friend.

 

  1. Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) – Official website of the Cat Fanciers’ Association, where you can find information about Maine Coon breed standards and reputable breeders.
  2. The International Cat Association (TICA) – Official website of The International Cat Association, offering information about Maine Coon breed standards and registered breeders.
  3. Maine Coon Cat Club – A resourceful website dedicated to Maine Coon cats, providing breed information, care tips, and breeder listings.
  4. Maine Coon Rescue – A non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes Maine Coon cats in need, offering opportunities to adopt and support the breed.
  5. Maine Coon Health – A valuable resource on Maine Coon cat health, including information about genetic testing and health issues specific to the breed.
  6. The Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association (MCBFA) – A recognized organization promoting the welfare of Maine Coon cats and maintaining ethical breeding practices.